The dire state of disrepair of the structures of Buhumba Primary School in Katanga Parish, Kamuganguzi Sub-county in Kabale District is worrying parents, the school management, and other stakeholders. The Church of Uganda founded but a government-aided school was established in 1981 under the supervision of the Diocese of Kigezi.

Despite experiencing a significant increase in enrollment in recent years, Buhumba Primary School has old dilapidated structures that were constructed by parents over forty (40) years ago in 1981 and is also severely understaffed. There are currently 824 pupils served by only fifteen (15) teachers.

Jackson Kyomukama, the Headteacher of Buhumba Primary School told COU Family TV that one of the two classroom blocks constructed by parents over four decades ago accommodates 340 pupils in Primary One and Two, while the other block hosts Primary Three, the staffroom, and school store.

Kyomukama says the school needs more classroom blocks to accommodate the growing number of learners, with a single classroom now accommodating over 100 pupils. He also noted that the shortage of teachers has greatly hampered the school's ability to deliver quality education.

According to Kyomukama, the government last constructed a five-classroom block in 2003, which currently accommodates Primary 4 to 7 and some offices. A few years ago, parents voiced concern about the deteriorating condition of the school structures and mobilized themselves to construct a block with four classrooms.

However, the block is yet to be roofed since only half of the required 200 iron sheets have been procured through cash contributions from Kabale District Local Government, parents, and well-wishers.

Geoffrey Basezero, the PTA Chairperson of Buhumba Primary School, expressed concern over the aging structures, fearing that they may collapse at any time on the learners, thus putting their lives at risk.

According to the Rev. Oscar Mwesigwa, the Inspector Of Schools in the Diocese of Kigezi, many church-founded schools in the area have poor infrastructure, inadequate staffing, and lack of educational materials. He emphasizes the need to leverage the church's platform to mobilize support for the schools, alongside government aid.

Moses Bwengye, the Kabale District Education Officer, acknowledged the understaffing in some schools. He said that the department had put in a supplementary budget request to address the issue. He noted that the district has supported parents to construct school structures by providing roofing materials.

The state of Buhumba Primary School facilities and the shortage of teachers underscores the urgent need for intervention and support.