education 14 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)

Tororo Schools Grapple with Low Third-Term Attendance

Schools in Tororo District are experiencing significantly low student attendance as the third academic term begins, sparking concern among educators and parents about the potential impact on learning. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/low-school-attendance-reported-as-third-term-opens-in-tororo-5594684

As the final term of the 2026 academic year commenced on Monday, September 14, 2026, many schools in Tororo District reported a disappointingly low turnout of students. This situation has prompted significant concern from school administrators and parents alike.

Preliminary figures from various primary and secondary institutions across the district reveal that a substantial number of learners had not yet returned to their classrooms. Head teachers have pointed to financial constraints faced by parents as a primary reason, with many struggling to afford school fees. The long distances students often have to travel to reach their schools are also cited as a contributing factor.

At St Jude Annex Primary School in Malaba, head teacher Robinah Amoit expressed her worry, noting that only 12 pupils had arrived by Monday, a stark contrast to the 367 who attended at the close of the previous term. She also observed that some parents appear to be prioritizing domestic chores or informal businesses over their children’s education, with some pupils seen vending or working in rice fields instead of being in school.

Similarly, Rock View School in Tororo Town saw only 500 students return out of a total of 2,016. The head teacher, Abdu Gamoiza, suggested that some parents exhibit a negative attitude towards primary education, often prioritizing secondary-level students. However, he remains optimistic that attendance will improve throughout the week.

Denis Tabu, the district inspector of schools, acknowledged the challenge and called for a united effort involving various sectors. Sensitization programs and support initiatives are being explored to encourage parents to send their children back to school. Meanwhile, teachers have been instructed to proceed with lessons for the students present, while awaiting the arrival of others.

Education experts warn that prolonged absences can exacerbate learning disparities, particularly for children from less privileged backgrounds, and potentially hinder the achievement of universal basic education goals. Collective action from parents, local leaders, and development partners is crucial to ensure all students return to school and successfully complete the academic year.