Apac, Uganda: Maruzi County Member of Parliament-elect Peter Obong Acuda has supported 30 best-performing Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) candidates from the constituency with mattresses, metallic boxes and scholastic materials to ease their transition to secondary school.
The beneficiaries, drawn from various sub-counties in Maruzi, were selected on the basis of academic performance, with priority given to learners from financially constrained households. The support was handed over during a ceremony held at Acuda’s home on Saturday.
“Many children perform well at PLE but fail to continue with their studies due to lack of basic requirements,” Acuda said. “This support is meant to encourage them to stay in school and assure parents that their children’s efforts are recognised.”
Each learner received a mattress, a metallic storage box and a set of secondary-level books. Acuda said the intervention is part of a broader plan to promote education as a foundation for long-term development in Maruzi County and to reduce school dropout at the critical transition from primary to secondary education.
Parents Welcome the Support
Parents who attended the event welcomed the initiative, saying the cost of secondary school requirements often places a heavy burden on households.
“Buying a mattress, box and books at once is very expensive,” said Sarah Aciro. “This support has reduced the pressure on us and allowed our children to report to school with confidence.”
Another parent, James Opio, described the support as timely, noting that many learners delay reporting to school due to inability to raise requirements.
“This intervention will help many learners report on time,” he said.
Beneficiaries Speak Out
The pupils who benefited from the initiative said the support had motivated them to work harder as they prepare for secondary school.
“I am very grateful for the books and mattress,” said James Okello. “They will help me study comfortably and focus on my lessons.”
Fourteen-year-old Grace Amongi said the items boosted her morale. “This support makes me feel encouraged,” she said. “I want to perform well so that I can also help others in the future.”
Education Stakeholders Commend Initiative
Education stakeholders in Apac District praised the MP-elect’s move, saying lack of basic requirements remains a major obstacle to education continuity in rural areas.
“Supporting learners at transition points is critical,” said Geoffrey Abongo, the district education officer in charge of guidance and counselling. “Such interventions improve retention and motivate pupils to maintain good academic performance.”
Acuda said he will continue engaging stakeholders to expand education-focused programmes in the constituency, emphasising that investing in learners is central to sustainable community development.
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