Farming and trade draw learners away from classrooms in Agago

14 April 2025, 3:53 PM

By Freeman Canogura

Obolokome Primary School in Kaka Aminingo village, Agengo parish, Agengo sub county, Agago district, is experiencing a significant decline in pupil attendance, as more children abandon classrooms to assist their families with farming and small-scale trade.

A recent visit by Radio Wang Ooh FM on Monday, 14th April 2025, revealed concerning statistics. Across all seven primary classes, attendance was notably below the total enrolment:

• P1: 45 out of 90 pupils present
• P2: 41 out of 80 pupils present
• P3: 47 out of 90 pupils present
• P4: 57 out of 110 pupils present
• P5: 50 out of 120 pupils present
• P6: 47 out of 82 pupils present
• P7: 34 out of 57 pupils present

These numbers indicate that no class had more than 60 percent attendance, with some as low as 40 percent.

According to school officials, most of the absent pupils are helping with agricultural work or small-scale trade in nearby markets. This trend has left the once-thriving institution grappling with low attendance, despite having a full staff of 24 teachers, 11 funded by the government and 13 supported by the Parents Teachers Association (PTA).

Charles Phillip Okot, Chairperson of the PTA, expressed concern over the persistent absenteeism, noting that repeated meetings with parents have failed to change the situation. He believes that some parents in the area still undervalue formal education, often relying on their children for labour to support the household.

The school’s headteacher, Musisi Alex, confirmed that attendance has remained poor since the term began in February. According to school records, no class has had more than 60 percent of its enrolled pupils attending regularly, despite the staff being ready and learning materials being available.

Hon. Anna Grace Apiyo, District Secretary for Education, attributed the absenteeism to ongoing socio-economic pressures that force families to prioritise short-term survival over long-term investment in education. She stated that the department is exploring community-based sensitisation as a strategy to engage parents and reverse the trend.

Agago District LCV Chairperson, Leonard Ojok, described the situation as a wake-up call. He stressed the importance of joint efforts by schools, local leaders, and civil society to remind communities of the role education plays in breaking the cycle of poverty. He affirmed that the district would support initiatives aimed at reconnecting families to the value of keeping children in school.