Over 70% of Pupils Drop Out; RDC Intervenes with Police Assistance

Rukiga, Uganda – The Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Kamusiime Zadok, has instructed school headteachers to compile lists of parents and pupils who have dropped out or are at risk of dropping out of school.

This directive follows a District Security Committee meeting held on January 29, 2025, which revealed a disturbingly high school dropout rate in the district.

According to RDC Zadok, the primary goal of this directive is to identify and track down pupils who have not reported back to school, with the assistance of the Police.

Additionally, the district aims to ensure that no extra charges are levied on students in government-aided schools, as the government provides funding through the Universal Primary Education (UPE) and Universal Secondary Education (USE) initiatives.

“I want you school headteachers to compile lists of parents and pupils who have dropped out or are at risk of dropping out of school and bring them to my office for the Police to handle.” RDC Zadok emphasized.

The District Education Officer, Madam Vastine Beyendera, confirmed that the district faces a significant challenge, with over 70% of pupils dropping out of school.

However, she expressed optimism that the RDC’s directive will help reduce this alarming rate and ensure that pupils receive the education they deserve.

Research has shown that parental involvement plays a crucial role in reducing school dropout rates.

A study conducted in Rwamucucu Sub-County, Rukiga District, found that parental involvement in school management and education activities positively impacts pupils’ retention and academic performance.