By Christine Akankunda
Parents have been asked to stop putting Primary Seven candidates under pressure and forcing them ahead of the Primary Leaving Examinations, but instead encourage, motivate and advise them.
The call was made on Tuesday by the Bishop of Rwenzori Diocese, Rt.Rev Dr. Reuben Kisembo Amooti, during a dedication mass at Green Circle Primary School in Fort Portal.
The Bishop said too much pressure from parents causes fear and anxiety among learners, which can affect their performance.
Bishop Kisembo was presiding over a service where 29 students were confirmed into the Church of Uganda and 117 Primary Seven candidates were dedicated to God as they prepare for PLE.
He also cautioned school managements against examination malpractice, urging them to allow children to write what they can manage, saying cheating tarnishes the name of schools.
He further urged candidates to put in much effort to value their parents’ money, be disciplined, believe in themselves and utilize the remaining time well.
On school fees, the Bishop asked parents to continue paying PTA contributions, noting that government support alone is not enough to run schools.
On the newly confirmed, he urged them to trust in God, have Christian faith and follow God’s commitments.
The Headteacher of Green Circle Primary School, Johnson Ayesiga, thanked the Bishop for the dedication service, appreciated staff for their hard work in developing learners spiritually and academically, and wished candidates success, saying PLE is like any other exam and they should remain confident and trust in God.