Kamuli Schools Grapple with Alarming Teenage Pregnancy Rates

Kamuli District is facing a growing crisis as schools report a concerning surge in teenage pregnancies. The District Principal Education Officer, Aaron Gwolaba, revealed during a meeting with headteachers that specific schools have recorded alarmingly high numbers.

Kagumba Seed School reported 23 cases, Nabwigulu Seed School had 21, and Buzaaya Primary School documented 30 pregnancies among its students in the second term alone. Kitayunjwa Seed School has yet to be assessed but is believed to be at significant risk.

In response, the government is considering making pregnancy testing mandatory for all government-funded primary and secondary schools at the start and end of each academic term. This measure aims to identify and address the issue proactively.

Concerns have also been raised about potential misconduct by some educators. An anonymous teacher suggested that romantic relationships between some teachers and students contribute to the problem, highlighting the need for improved counselling and guidance within schools.

Local authorities are stepping up efforts to combat the vice. The Deputy RDC, Adonia Mafumo Wansadha, stressed the need for a robust campaign and promised legal action against parents who neglect their children’s education or facilitate early marriages after a pregnancy occurs. Patrol teams will be deployed to monitor and report such ceremonies, ensuring all involved parties are held accountable.

The Daily Monitor reported on the situation in Kamuli.