Authorities in Rubanda District are advocating for enhanced sensitization and mentorship programs in schools to combat the rising issues of student dropout and sexual harassment.
They made the appeal yesterday during a one-day stakeholders meeting held at Volcano Hotel in Rubanda District.
The meeting aimed to validate findings from citizen engagement under the Strengthening Citizens’ Engagement and Public Accountability (SCEPA) Project.
The meeting was organized by the Local Sustainable Communities Organization (LOSCO) in partnership with the Uganda National NGO Forum (UNNGOF) and was supported by the embassies of Denmark, Ireland, and Sweden in Uganda.
Their appeal came after the Rubanda District Inspector of Schools, Happy Asiimwe Melkizedeki, revealed that they are investigating sexual abuse of pupils by their teachers in the district.
Other stakeholders, including Rubanda District Principal Assistant Secretary, Elly Mucunguzi, Nyamweru Sub-County Community Development Officer, Victor Kyatuka, Jacent Uwimana Tumukunde, and Vincent Rwabusende, among others emphasized that mentorship and sensitization are crucial since they can provide vital support and guidance to learners, helping them overcome academic challenges, build confidence, and develop effective strategies to cope with and report sexual harassment.
The Team Leader at LOSCO, Albert Taremwa, explained that the meeting aimed to identify challenges in health, agriculture, infrastructure, education, and security that hinder service delivery.
These identified issues will be forwarded to the relevant authorities for prompt action.
