Kitgum schools reopen to near-empty classrooms as term one begins

13 February 2026, 1:51 pm

By Otim Moses

Schools across Kitgum District have reopened for Term One with unusually low learner turnout, leaving many classrooms nearly empty on the first day. Our reporters found that, although teachers reported for duty, only a small fraction of pupils returned, continuing a worrying trend that headteachers say has grown in recent years.

At Odunglee Primary School in Labongo Layamo Sub-County, just 92 of 778 pupils attended. Ayoma Primary School registered only 37 learners out of 652, while Mucwini Primary School saw 24 pupils present out of more than 800 enrolled.

Ms Christine Atoo, Headteacher of Mucwini Primary School, said some parents were misled by rumours that schools would reopen on 17 February. She urged families to send their children to school immediately.

Similar scenes were reported elsewhere. At Lukwor Primary School in Labongo Amida Sub-County, only six learners reported on the first day, despite almost all teachers being present, while Kitgum Matidi Primary recorded 280 pupils out of 739.

The Lukwor Primary School Headteacher, Ms Layet Lily Florence, appealed to parents to send their children to school, noting that the school will work with local leaders to mobilise parents.

Kitgum District LC5 Chairperson, Mr Arwai Christopher Obol, urged parents to adhere to the Ministry of Education calendar, stressing that education remains key to children’s future.

The academic term officially runs from 10 February to 4 May.