Kitgum, Uganda: At least 60 students have been expelled from Kitgum High School over persistent indiscipline and poor academic performance, school authorities have confirmed.
The head teacher, Christopher Opoka, told DailyExpress on Monday that the decision followed a comprehensive review of learners’ conduct and academic records.
“We conducted a thorough assessment of the affected learners and found consistent cases of indiscipline and unsatisfactory academic progress. As a school, we must uphold standards,” Opoka said.
According to Mr Opoka, Senior Five registered the highest number of discontinued students, with 36 learners asked to seek admission elsewhere. Senior Two and Senior Three accounted for the remaining 24 cases.
He noted that the decision was reached after consultations with the School Board of Governors and the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA).
Mobile Phones, Drunkenness, Theft
Authorities cited several disciplinary offences, including sneaking mobile phones onto campus, drunkenness, escaping from school without permission, and theft of school property.
In one incident that alarmed administrators, students allegedly stole 130 plastic chairs from the school premises. Only 17 chairs have so far been recovered.
The head teacher said such actions not only disrupt learning but also tarnish the institution’s image.
“The rules are clear to all students and parents at the beginning of every term. Devices allowed in school must strictly support academic work,” he said, explaining that mobile phones are prohibited while iPads and laptops must be registered and supervised.
Mixed Reactions
The move has sparked mixed reactions among parents. While some have supported the tough stance as necessary to restore discipline, others argue that schools should strengthen guidance and counselling mechanisms to help struggling learners.
Education stakeholders say the development highlights growing challenges in secondary schools, particularly around technology misuse, substance abuse and declining discipline standards.
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