By Alfred Opio
Obutet Sub-county has recorded a significant milestone in the education sector following the successful technical handover of Phase I of Obutet Seed Secondary School, a government-funded project aimed at expanding access to quality secondary education.
The handover ceremony attracted district officials, local leaders, community members, and the project contractor, marking a crucial step toward improving learning infrastructure and increasing school enrollment in the area.
Education Key to Community Transformation
Speaking at the function, the Chief Administrative Officer of Pallisa District, Felix Alex Majeme, emphasized the transformative role of education in shaping both individuals and communities.
“I have a strong attachment to education and I would not be who I am today if my parents didn’t take me to school,” Majeme said, urging parents and stakeholders to actively support the new institution.
He noted that the technical handover allows students to begin using the facilities as preparations continue for the official commissioning.
Community and Church Praised for Land Donation
The District Councillor for Obutet Sub-county, Justine Onyait, thanked stakeholders for their unity and cooperation, particularly commending Agurur Catholic Church for donating land for the school’s construction.
He described the project as a result of transparency, teamwork, and commitment to improving education standards, and appealed for volunteer teachers to be considered during future recruitment.
Modern Facilities Completed Under Phase I
According to the project contractor, Mem Associates Ltd, Phase I works included:
- Two classroom blocks (four classrooms total)
- Five-stance VIP latrine for boys
- Five-stance VIP latrine for girls
- Two-stance VIP latrine for administration
- Lightning arrestors installation
- Supply of 72 desks and four teachers’ tables
Despite challenges such as delayed payments, limited materials, and lack of fencing, the contractor confirmed the project was completed to required standards.
Government Funding and Technical Details
The Clerk to Works, Lawrence Odeke, revealed that construction began on February 24, 2026, at a contract cost of UGX 474.8 million, funded by the Ministry of Education and Sports under the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers Program (UGIFT).
He confirmed that works were implemented according to approved drawings and Bills of Quantities.
Enrollment Already Growing
Headteacher Robert Okello said the school currently serves 165 learners:
- Senior One: 95 students
- Senior Two: 43 students
- Senior Three: 27 students
The school operates with 10 volunteer teachers and aims to strengthen discipline, integrity, and inclusive education.
Call for Fencing and Environmental Protection
District Natural Resources officials urged stakeholders to prioritize fencing the school and planting trees to enhance safety, environmental protection, and proper management of the premises.
A Step Toward Better Education in Pallisa
Education leaders believe the new facilities will significantly improve access to secondary education in rural communities, reduce dropout rates, and enhance academic performance across Obutet Sub-county.
The successful technical handover of Phase I sets the stage for the school’s full commissioning and signals continued investment in education development across Pallisa District.
