Clare
As the world commemorated the International Day of the African Child yesterday, Rt Rev.Bishop Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki of Fort Portal Diocese, has urged Ugandans to protect children’s rights, especially in education.
In his homily to Congregants gathered at St.Jude’s Kabaale Catholic Church in Bunyangabu district for the fundraising of the renovation of their church structure, the Bishop emphasized the need for collective efforts among parents and other Ugandans to respect children’s rights in shaping the next generation.
Child abuse cases
Bishop Muhiirwa highlighted the challenges faced by children, including parents who refuse to provide scholastic materials, excessive child labor, and some teachers who take advantage of children through sexual abuse and bribery.
He called on parents to be the voice of children and to cooperate with the government in securing their education, doing away with the mindset of “the Children are for Museveni ”.
Hon.Peace Regis Mutuuzo, the Minister for Gender and Culture who was present on the function, mentioned education as a Key factor for a well groomed next generation.
She hailed Bunyangabu residents for taking a step in pushing forward education, acknowledging a few members that are still adamant with a negative mindset about educating children.
Miss Sarah Kabarokore, a former MP aspirant Bunyangabu district, expressed disappointment in a section of parents who still underestimate the importance of educating their children, and keep their children home fetching water, collecting firewood among others as the rest are at school.
According to Kabarokore, a whole task of preparing the next generation for an economically empowered country has strong roots in the current involvement of parents in educating their dear children.
She echoed Bishop Muhiirwa’s call in collective efforts by the parents and the government to give their children the education they deserve.
African Child’z day marked in Uganda
The day, which commemorates the Soweto Uprising in South Africa in 1976, is used to raise awareness of the ongoing need to improve education for children in Africa.
This year, the celebrations in Uganda have today been held in Masindi district, where a high number of child abuse cases have been detected, under the theme “Educate an African Child Fit for the 21st Century: Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality, and Relevant Learning in Africa
