Authorities arrested 47 teachers and one school head in Kisoro District on Wednesday. Their crime? Conducting unauthorized classes during the official school holiday.
The sting operation targeted several schools, including Muhabura Shine, Kisoro Savior Secondary, and Kisoro Vision Secondary. Education officials confirmed they were enforcing a directive from the State Minister for Higher Education, John Muyingo, which mandates schools to remain closed until February 5th.
Local leaders expressed outrage at the educators’ defiance. Kisoro LC5 chairman, Abel Bizimana, condemned their disregard for the law, while Resident District Commissioner, Hajji Badru Ssebyala, lamented the irony of teachers, role models for the youth, breaking the rules.
They warned other schools engaging in similar practices to desist or face arrest.
However, school owners defended their actions. Kisoro District Private Secondary School Owners Chairperson, Munyambabazi Dan, argued that the vastness of the new curriculum necessitates extra teaching time beyond the official calendar. He also cited intense competition, claiming schools avoiding holiday classes disadvantage themselves, students, and parents.
Following questioning, the arrested teachers were released on bond. The incident has sparked a debate about balancing educational needs with respecting regulations and ensuring teacher accountability.
