In a surprising revelation, parents in some parts of Budalang’i, Busia County, express alarm over the early school hours that require children to be in class as early as 5AM. The safety of the students is a significant concern for parents, who question the necessity of such early remedial lessons. The issue was raised during a public baraza attended by Bunyala Deputy County Commissioner Dr. Paul Papa, prompting responses from education officials.
Quick Summary
- Parents in Budalang’i, Busia County, raise concerns about the early school hours, with children reportedly attending classes at 5AM.
- Safety and the necessity of early remedial lessons are questioned by parents during a public baraza attended by education officials.
- Bunyala Sub-county Director of Education George Owuoche acknowledges the concern, emphasizing that Ministry of Education guidelines stipulate learning from 8AM to 4PM.
- Despite good intentions, the early hours raise worries, prompting a call for alternative ways to support weak learners.
- Concerns over national exam performance are expressed, with a call for increased enrollment in new schools.
Early School Hours: A Cause for Concern
Parents in Budalang’i, Busia County, express their apprehension regarding the early school hours that see children reporting to school as early as 5AM. The safety of the students is at the forefront of parental concerns, prompting questions about the necessity of such early remedial lessons imposed by school heads.
Education Officials Respond
During a public baraza attended by Bunyala Deputy County Commissioner Dr. Paul Papa, Bunyala Sub-county Director of Education George Owuoche addressed the issue. Owuoche acknowledged the concern, labeling it as a worrying trend that demands urgent attention. He clarified that Ministry of Education guidelines dictate learning hours from 8AM to 4PM, emphasizing the need for adherence to these standards.
While recognizing the well-intentioned efforts of teachers, Owuoche advocated for exploring better methods to assist weak learners without compromising their well-being. This acknowledgment signals a willingness to address the issue and find alternative solutions that balance educational support and student safety.
Commendation for NGCDF Committee and Exam Performance Concerns
In the same breath, Owuoche commended the Budalang’i NGCDF committee for allocating funds to facilitate the construction of new schools in the constituency. This initiative is seen as a positive step towards bringing education closer to the people.
However, the concern over the dismal performance in national exams takes center stage. Despite Bunyala Sub-county securing the top position in the 2022 KCSE within Busia County, it slipped to the fourth position among the eight sub-counties. This shift raises questions about the overall academic landscape and the need for strategic interventions to enhance educational outcomes.
Final Thoughts
The early school hours in Budalang’i, Busia County, have sparked valid concerns among parents, shedding light on the delicate balance between academic support and the well-being of students. The responses from education officials indicate a readiness to address the issue, emphasizing the importance of aligning school practices with established guidelines. As the community navigates these challenges, a collaborative effort between parents, educators, and officials becomes crucial to ensure a conducive learning environment for the students.