Authorities in Bulambuli are calling for urgent action as more children remain out of school due to financial constraints, limited facilities, and geographical challenges. Local leaders are appealing for support to improve access to education and essential learning resources.
This concern was echoed by Namukono Richard, Chairman L3 Bulunganya Sub-County, as Bravo Shoes Community Support Organisation (BSCS) facilitated the enrollment of two children, Angela Muzaki (8) from Buwokadala Parish and Magombe Michael from Manyolo Village, into Raised Roof Academy.
Education Crisis in Bulambuli
Bulambuli district authorities continue to raise concerns over the increasing number of children unable to access education. Financial hardships and poor infrastructure remain major obstacles, leaving many children without opportunities to learn. Community leaders and stakeholders emphasize the need for immediate intervention to provide these children with a future.
Namukono accompanied Angela and Michael to Raised Roof Academy in Kalungu, Greater Masaka, where BSCS had secured scholarships for them. “This is my first time visiting, and I am deeply moved by the generosity of the Bravo team,” Namukono stated. “Their kindness and commitment to helping others are truly remarkable. They have supported many communities, and I am grateful they have now reached ours.”
Many families in Bulambuli struggle to afford school fees, supplies, and basic necessities. BSCS is working to bridge this gap, offering children educational opportunities they would otherwise miss. Guardians of the selected children expressed their gratitude, acknowledging the life-changing impact of such initiatives.
“As a community leader, I am committed to working with Bravo to develop our sub-council and contribute to Uganda’s progress,” Namukono added. “I will support their efforts and ensure we collaborate for the well-being of our children. As a parent and guardian, I will also follow up on these children’s progress to help them become self-reliant in the future.”
The Role of Raised Roof Academy in Muzaaki and Magombe Education
Yvonne Ayombeka, an accountant at Raised Roof Academy, praised the initiative and its impact on young lives. “Angela and Michael were selected from Bulambuli District in eastern Uganda by the dedicated team at BSCS. We are incredibly grateful that these children have been given the opportunity to pursue their dreams through a scholarship that will shape their future,” she said.
“At Raised Roof Academy, we are honored to partner with Bravo Shoes in this journey, supporting these children in achieving their full potential. We are confident that, with the right support and guidance, Angela and Michael will grow into remarkable individuals who will make a positive impact in the future,” Ayombeka added.
With increasing support from organizations like Bravo, there is hope that more children in Bulambuli will soon have access to education and the chance to build a brighter future.
The Challenges Facing Children in Bulambuli
Despite hailing from the mountainous region of Buwokadala Parish, Bumasobo Sub-County, Muzaki is determined to pursue education despite overwhelming challenges.
Born to Evelyn Namusoba and the late Francis Woniala, she now lives with her aging grandfather, 64-year-old Stephen Masoboni.
Muzaki’s village is nestled in a remote area, isolated from modern amenities. Education is a distant dream for many, clean water is scarce, and healthcare is almost nonexistent. However, Muzaki’s determination remains steadfast. She, like many children in her village, has learned to navigate the steep cliffs and unpredictable rains just to attend school.
At Wokadala Primary School, where she is enrolled, challenges persist. The school has only male teachers, lacks proper sanitation, and has inadequate resources. Many girls drop out when they reach puberty due to the absence of female role models and a lack of sanitary supplies.
“I want to become a teacher—it is my dream,” said one Primary Four pupil at Wokadala Primary School. However, uncertainty clouds her future, as cultural expectations and economic hardships force many girls into early marriage or out of school.
Wokadala enrolled over 880 students, but by 2023, only 756 managed to complete their studies, with most dropouts being girls. Headmaster Willy Wanambwa attributes this to unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and extreme poverty. “The rains have no season; they come abruptly. January and February are the only dry months. Feeding is also a major issue since parents struggle to afford school meals,” he explained.
The school also faces teacher shortages. “We have no female teachers, and due to limited resources, retaining teachers is a challenge,” Wanambwa noted.
Bulambuli District Officials Speak Out
In the first visit to Bulambuli, Christine Namwau, the District Community Development Officer (DCDO), highlighted that the district has 54 government-aided schools, yet with 122 parishes, many remain without a single school.
She also raised concerns over high dropout rates, stating that 50% of children who enroll in Primary One do not complete their Primary Leaving Exams (PLE). “Natural factors and economic struggles prevent parents from supporting their children’s education. Girls are the most affected, and many drop out as they approach puberty,” she said.
Namwau emphasized the urgent need for female teachers to provide mentorship and support to young girls. “In schools where no female teachers exist, girls struggle during puberty. Some drop out due to lack of sanitary pads and proper guidance,” she noted.
She also called for partners to help sensitize communities on child development issues, address early marriages, and establish vocational training centers. “As a district, we don’t have a single vocational school. Many girls drop out by ages 16 to 18, often forced into early marriages. We appreciate partners like Bravo Shoes Community Support Organisation and hope to work together to make a lasting impact.”
Charles Gidoi, the Principal Assistant Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), echoed these concerns, pointing out that access to schools and healthcare remains a challenge due to poor infrastructure. “Children currently navigate cliffs through makeshift routes to reach their schools and health facilities,” he said.
As Bulambuli district continues to struggle with these challenges, local leaders, organizations, and well-wishers are urged to step in and help transform the region’s education landscape. By improving infrastructure, providing essential learning materials, and addressing gender-specific challenges, stakeholders can ensure that children like Angela Muzaki have a fair chance at education and a better future.
