IGG Advises Schools to Bolster Grievance Systems to Combat Student Dropouts

The Inspectorate of Government (IGG) has emphasized the critical need for schools to strengthen their systems for handling student grievances. According to the IGG, establishing accessible and safe channels for learners to report issues such as bullying, abuse, and unfair treatment is paramount in preventing them from dropping out of school.

Savio Kakooza, the Director of Ombudsman Affairs, speaking at the closure of the National Secondary School Dropout Reduction Campaign, highlighted that a multitude of factors contribute to students leaving school prematurely. These include socio-economic challenges like poverty, teenage pregnancies, early marriages, family conflicts, academic difficulties, and health issues.

Kakooza also pointed to negative external influences such as exposure to crime, substance abuse, and detrimental peer pressure as significant contributors to dropout rates.

He urged parents, educators, communities, and government bodies to play an active role in identifying at-risk students and providing them with necessary support, including guidance and counselling.

The campaign itself involved approximately 1,000 young people from across Uganda, with an equal representation of boys and girls, participating for nearly two weeks.

Furthermore, Kakooza advised young people to resist negative peer influence, make sound decisions, and seek assistance when facing difficulties. He stressed that dropping out of school should not signify the end of an individual’s life prospects, advocating for rehabilitation and support for those who have already left. “Dropping out of school should not mean dropping out of life,” he stated.

Participants were encouraged to become advocates for education, integrity, and responsible conduct within their communities, carrying the message: “Stay in school, Stay focused, Stay out of crime.”

Source: Nile Post