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Lango parents warned against keeping children at home over Ebola fears

24 May 2026, 8:24 pm

Assistant RDC warning parents.

By Dickens Aruca

Parents and guardians in the Lango sub-region have been urged not to use the Ebola outbreak as a reason to keep children away from school as Term II officially begins on Monday, 25 May 2026.

The appeal was made by Mr Jimmy Okello, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Alebtong, during an exclusive interview with Radio Wa.

Okello expressed concern that some parents, particularly in rural communities, often take advantage of disease outbreaks to prevent children from returning to school. He emphasised that despite the Ebola threat, the Ministry of Health has already issued standard operating procedures (SOPs) to guide schools on the prevention and control of the disease.

He therefore urged parents and guardians to ensure that all learners report back to school on time, warning that anyone deliberately keeping children at home under the pretext of the Ebola outbreak could face legal action.

Assistant Resident District Commissioner (ARDC) speaking on the dangers of keeping children at home during school time.

At the same time, Okello advised parents to remain vigilant and to avoid sending children to school if they show symptoms suggestive of Ebola.

Meanwhile, Mr Nelson Opaka, head teacher of Ogengo Primary School and chairperson of head teachers in Aloi and Alebtong Town Councils, also encouraged parents to allow children to resume their studies without fear.

Head teacher Opaka encouraging parents to prioritise children’s education.

According to Opaka, several engagements involving education stakeholders and health officials have reassured parents that schools are prepared and safe for learners. He also criticized the common practice in some rural parts of Lango where children report to school a week late at the beginning of term, saying the habit negatively affects academic performance.

Opaka assuring parents of schools’ readiness to welcome learners despite the Ebola outbreak.

The Ministry of Education and Sports has confirmed that all schools across the country will reopen for Term II on Monday, 25 May 2026, despite concerns surrounding the Ebola outbreak.

Leaders and education stakeholders in Lango are calling on parents to prioritise education while strictly observing health guidelines, emphasising that timely school attendance and adherence to Ebola prevention measures are both essential for the safety and future of learners.