In a recent incident at Nganwa High School Kabwohe, seven students have been arrested by the police due to their involvement in a violent clash on the school premises. The individuals taken into custody, all aged between 18 and 19 years old, are Senior Four candidates preparing for their National Exams, which are scheduled to commence on Friday, October 14, 2023.
According to police records, two other students, whose grade levels have not been disclosed, sustained severe injuries during the altercation. The Greater Bushenyi Police Spokesperson, SSP Martial Tumusiime, confirmed the occurrence, revealing that the clash took place on Monday, October 9. It’s important to note that Monday was a public holiday in Uganda, marking the 61st independence anniversary of the country.
The incident reportedly unfolded around 10 pm on Independence Day when a confrontation erupted among the students during what is referred to as a “farewell party.” Sources within the school have described this annual event as a “school culture,” wherein every Senior Four student is expected to face a physical altercation with fellow students at the conclusion of the academic year.
As per available information, the Senior Four students who did not wish to participate in this tradition left the school grounds, consumed alcohol, and subsequently returned to initiate an attack on those who were allegedly prepared to adhere to the cultural practice. The matter was reported to Sheema District Police Commander (DPC) ASP Kasule Consilata, who, along with a police team, promptly intervened and restored order. However, fresh fighting occurred on the morning of October 10, necessitating further police deployment.
The headteacher of Nganwa High School, Rev. Hannington Tumwesigye, identified the group arrested as the ringleaders of the violent clash. The injured students were swiftly transported to Kampala International Teaching Hospital Ishaka for medical treatment. The police and school authorities are actively investigating the situation.
