SPEAKER AMONG CHALLENGES TESO PARENTS TO PRIORITIZE EDUCATION
SPEAKER AMONG CHALLENGES TESO PARENTS TO PRIORITIZE EDUCATION
The Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, has challenged parents in the Teso sub-region to actively prioritize and support their children’s education, calling it a vital foundation for community transformation.
Speaker Among made the passionate appeal on Friday, June 13, 2025, during a visit to Gweri County in Soroti District, at the invitation of Hon. Herbert Edmund Ariko, the Member of Parliament for Soroti City East.
While addressing a large gathering of residents, local leaders, parents, and students, Speaker Among emphasized that education is the most powerful tool in breaking the cycle of poverty, reducing inequality, and empowering future generations.
“Parents in Teso must understand that education is not just a personal benefit to the child but a direct investment in the future of the region,” she said. “No child should be left behind simply because of a lack of support from home. It is your responsibility as parents to guide, encourage, and stand with your children throughout their educational journey.”
The Speaker was in the area to officially commission a newly constructed classroom block at Aukot Community Secondary School in Aukot Sub-county. The project, spearheaded by Hon. Ariko, is part of efforts to improve access to secondary education in the district.
Among praised the initiative, noting that the new classrooms would help reduce congestion and increase enrollment, especially among students from underprivileged backgrounds.
“I want to commend Hon. Ariko for his leadership in identifying a critical gap and working tirelessly to address it. This classroom block is more than just a structure—it is a symbol of hope and progress. True leadership is about putting the needs of the community first,” she said.
Recognizing the school as the only secondary institution in the entire sub-county, Speaker Among pledged to push for its full government takeover. She reaffirmed that it is a standing government policy that every sub-county should have at least one government-aided secondary school.
“It is not just a promise it is policy. Every sub-county must have a government-supported secondary school. I will personally follow up to ensure that Aukot Community Secondary School becomes fully government-aided, with qualified teachers, facilities, and learning materials,” she assured.
Mr. Chris Ogule, the LC3 Chairperson of Aukot Sub-county, welcomed the Speaker’s pledge, calling it a long-awaited breakthrough for the community. He expressed optimism that government support would boost both infrastructure and academic performance.
In his remarks, Hon. Ariko thanked Speaker Among for her visit and unwavering commitment to improving education in rural communities.
“We are deeply grateful for your support, Rt. Hon. Speaker. Education is the light that will lead Teso out of poverty, and with leaders like you by our side, we are confident of a brighter future,” Ariko said.
Ends
By Abraham Ekwaru, Communication Officer Soroti