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 on duty, only a small fraction of pupils returned, continuing a worrying trend headteachers say has grown in recent years.

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

Ms. Christine Atoo, the Head teacher of Mucwini Primary School, says some parents were misled by rumours that schools would reopen on the 17^th of February. She urged families to send 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 reporting for duty, while Kitgum Matidi Primary recorded 280 pupils out of 739.

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

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

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