BY Our Reporter
Bundibugyo, Uganda — As part of its mission to promote quality education and effective service delivery, the Office of the National Chairman (ONC) conducted a monitoring visit to Bubukwanga Secondary School in Bubukwanga Subcounty, Bundibugyo District.
The visit was led by Mr. Kyalimpa Ausen, ONC Coordinator for the Rwenzori Subregion, representing Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo, Head of ONC. The team assessed school infrastructure, student welfare, and academic performance in a school serving children from underprivileged backgrounds in a remote and challenging area.
Founded in 1999 during the ADF insurgency, Bubukwanga Secondary initially operated as a private institution under the Catholic Church before government takeover in 2005. Under Headmaster Mr. Balyebulya Anthony, the school has become a key educational hub for the local community.
Despite facing obstacles such as low student turnout due to seasonal cocoa farming, delayed enrollment, and early-term absenteeism, the school achieved a 96% pass rate in the 2025 Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations. Out of 165 students registered, 159 passed, highlighting the resilience of learners and dedication of teachers.
During the visit, Mr. Ausen identified pressing requirements, including:
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Additional classrooms, A girls’ changing room, A teachers’ house, A library
Currently, only 12 teachers are paid by the government, while 15 teachers and 11 support staff rely on parental contributions, placing a heavy financial burden on the school.
He also drew attention to stalled APL1 World Bank projects, including two classrooms and a teachers’ house contracted to Kamua International. Despite a budget of UGX 250 million, these projects have remained incomplete for 16 years, hindering the school’s ability to provide a conducive learning environment.
“Reviving these projects is crucial to supporting academic excellence and empowering youth in the Rwenzori Subregion,” Mr. Ausen said.
The Coordinator commended Headmaster Balyebulya Anthony and the school staff for their resilience and dedication. He called on the Ministry of Education, district leaders, and stakeholders to prioritize support for Bubukwanga Secondary, ensuring sustainable education delivery.
“This monitoring visit provides firsthand insights that will be communicated to Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo to engage relevant authorities. Together, we can ensure the school continues to deliver quality education and nurture the next generation of leaders,” Mr. Ausen emphasized.
Bubukwanga Secondary’s success demonstrates the potential of remote schools to excel even under resource constraints, provided they receive proper support and guidance.