By Staff Reporter
A primary school head teacher in Soroti City has called on government and education authorities to prioritize fencing and rehabilitation of school boundaries to protect learners and staff from growing security threats.
Alfred Enyidu, the Head Teacher of Kichinjaji Primary School, said the lack of proper fencing around many government-aided schools has exposed children and teachers to unauthorized access and disruptions that interfere with learning.
Speaking in an interview, Enyidu noted that the unpredictable security situation in communities neighboring some schools has made learning environments unsafe, with strangers frequently entering school compounds during class hours.
“I want to bring to the attention of the government that fencing schools is the way to protect the children and provide a secure environment where teachers can focus on teaching instead of handling security issues,” Enyidu said.
Rising Security Risks
According to the head teacher, several schools in Soroti City are located near trading centers and densely populated neighborhoods where groups of idle youth often gather. This, he explained, increases the risk of confrontations, trespassing, and interference with school activities.
He warned that in some cases, clashes between security forces and unruly youth have spilled into school grounds, putting pupils at risk and creating fear among teachers.
“When schools are open and unfenced, anyone can walk in at any time. That compromises the safety of our learners,” he said.
Impact on Learning and Discipline
Education leaders say the absence of fencing not only affects security but also contributes to poor discipline and academic performance. Unrestricted access allows pupils to sneak out during lessons, leading to truancy and absenteeism.
Enyidu added that open compounds make it difficult for teachers to monitor movements, resulting in lost instructional time and reduced concentration in class.
“Children abandon school easily because there is no control. Fencing would help us manage attendance and keep learners within the school environment,” he explained.
Child Protection Concerns
Beyond safety and discipline, Enyidu raised concerns about child protection issues such as abuse, forced marriages, and trafficking, which he said can be worsened when schools lack clear boundaries.
He argued that secure perimeters would act as a first line of defense in protecting children from external threats and exploitation.
Call for Government Intervention
The head teacher is now urging city authorities and the Ministry of Education to invest in fencing infrastructure as part of broader school improvement programs.
Education stakeholders believe that constructing strong fences, gates, and controlled entry points would enhance supervision, boost teacher confidence, and create a more conducive learning atmosphere.
“As we improve classrooms and sanitation facilities, we must also think about safety,” Enyidu said. “Our children deserve to study in a secure environment.”
With enrollment rising in Soroti City schools, leaders say addressing infrastructure gaps such as fencing will be critical to ensuring both safety and quality education for learners.
