Kamuli, Uganda: Kamuli District leaders have commissioned five newly completed government-funded classroom blocks while rejecting two others over poor workmanship, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring value for money in public infrastructure projects.
The inspection and commissioning exercise was led by Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Rose Birungi, LCV Chairperson Kaloli Dhizaala, Chief Administrative Officer Marley Ben Lawrence, officials from the District Education Department, including Mulondo Ben, and District Information Officer Ester Kyabaki.
During the exercise, officials commissioned classroom blocks at Bugulusi Primary School, Kisozi Primary School, Butegere Primary School, Bwiza Primary School, and Busige Primary School after confirming that the projects met the required construction standards.
However, the district leadership declined to commission newly constructed classroom blocks at Nabigongerya Primary School and Buwoya Primary School, citing poor-quality workmanship and directing contractors to rectify the defects before the projects can be accepted. The projects were undertaken by GK Contractors and Hector’s Construction.
‘No corruption’ stance
Speaking during the inspection, RDC Rose Birungi said the district would not compromise on quality or tolerate misuse of public resources. “This term we are implementing ‘no corruption’. That is why we have refused to commission the blocks at Nabigongerya and Buwoya because of shoddy work. Contractors must show value for money,” Birungi said.
She commended contractors whose work met the expected standards and urged school communities to protect and make proper use of the completed facilities.
Birungi also appealed to parents to play their role in supporting children’s education by ensuring learners receive meals while at school. “No one can study on an empty stomach. Let parents support their children with food so they can concentrate in class,” she added.
Dhizaala praises quality projects
Kamuli District LCV Chairperson Kaloli Dhizaala applauded the contractors who delivered quality work, saying improved learning infrastructure is essential to improving education outcomes in the district.
“We want to see every child in school. It is the responsibility of parents to support them by providing basic needs,” Dhizaala said.
He emphasized that investments in education infrastructure must be matched by community support to ensure children remain in school and complete their studies.
While welcoming the new classroom blocks, Mbulamuti Sub-county LCIII Chairperson Gwaivu Wilberforce appealed to government to prioritize the construction of staff houses for teachers. “We thank the district for the support. However, government should also build houses for teachers at schools to reduce absenteeism. Many teachers travel long distances to reach school,” Gwaivu said.
He noted that providing accommodation for teachers would improve punctuality, strengthen supervision of learners and enhance overall academic performance.
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