The State Minister for Higher Education, Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, has issued a stern warning to schools planning to commence the school term before the official date set by the Ministry of Education and Sports.
According to the official school calendar, the upcoming term is scheduled to begin on February 5th. However, Minister Muyingo expressed concern that reports have surfaced indicating that some schools are preparing to start teaching before the stipulated date, labeling such actions as illegal.
Speaking at a Thanksgiving ceremony held at the residence of Varelia Nakiwala in Busiika, Ziroobwe Town Council, Minister Muyingo urged District Education Officers to take decisive action against schools that defy the directive.
Muyingo emphasized that the purpose of holidays is to provide children with a break from academic pressures, allowing them to be nurtured by their parents. He criticized schools that are allegedly seeking to open earlier not for educational purposes but for financial gains.
"Some schools are asking learners to report back not because they want to teach but are looking for money," stated Muyingo.
He stressed that the holiday period is crucial for children to spend quality time with their families without the burden of academic studies.
The minister highlighted the significance of the home as the primary environment for shaping a child's development. Drawing from his own experience, Muyingo emphasized the impact of spending time with parents during holidays, noting that such experiences contributed to the success of individuals now in leadership positions.
Minister Muyingo's caution comes as a directive to uphold the official academic calendar and ensure that schools adhere to the prescribed opening date.
