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Parents, teachers, and learners have been called upon to embrace unity both at home and in school if they want to realize true development in their communities.
This call was made by Rev. Fr. Stanislaus Atipopo, the Administrator of Gomi Sub Parish, during the dedication prayer for Primary Seven candidates ahead of their Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE), and the handover of a new classroom block at Onyakede Primary School in Amach Sub County.
In his homily, Fr. Atipopo emphasized that success in any aspect of life, whether as a parent, teacher, or farmer, requires knowledge and understanding of how things are done.
“Having knowledge is very important. It is not found in heaven; it is sought,” he said. “The one who has knowledge is like a lamp that gives light to the world. God does not just give us knowledge; we must be taught and willing to learn.”
He likened education to light that dispels ignorance, adding that Jesus calls His followers “the light of the world” because they are meant to uplift others.
Fr. Atipopo reminded candidates that their upcoming exams are a chance to demonstrate what they have learned over the years.
“For one to put knowledge into action, two things must happen, seek knowledge and use it,” he noted. “But in giving knowledge, either the teacher lacks enough of it to share, or the learner is not willing to receive it.”
Fr. Atipopo cautioned parents who claim education is no longer valuable because of unemployment.
“There will be no development in your homes without education, no matter your religion,” he said. “Even as a priest, it was not only my prayer life that brought me here. My education documents also opened the way for me to join the seminary.”
He urged parents to work hard for their children’s education, expressing concern that some were unhappy about teachers returning to school after the recent industrial action.
“Teachers are struggling to educate your children despite being poorly paid. The strike was a cry for fairness, not a reason for parents to keep children at home,” he said.
Fr. Atipopo concluded by urging unity between parents and school administrators, saying development can only come when all stakeholders work together.
Rev. Sr. Agnes Atala, MSMMC, the Lira Diocese Education Secretary, praised Fr. Atipopo for his commitment to improving learning conditions at Onyakede Primary School. She said the new classroom block was born out of compassion after seeing children studying under trees.
Each of us was created for a purpose, and that purpose needs knowledge, and a good heart, like that of Fr. Stanislaus,” she said. “The donors who helped us are not rich people, but they understand that God created them to make a difference.”
Sr. Agnes revealed that Lira Diocese has 379 schools, six of which, including Onyakede, are in critical need of support: Onyakede P/S, Alworo P/S, Barlela P/S, Abongorwot P/S, Owiyodyek P/S, and Okile P/S.
She cautioned parents against believing in the idea of “free education,” noting that quality education requires shared responsibility.
“There is no such thing as free education,” she said. “Parents must contribute their part if they want their children to study well.”
She further encouraged parents to provide for their children and keep them in school, saying it is through education that the next generation will bring lasting change to families and communities.
The Headteacher of Onyakede Primary School, Mr. Do Santo Alango thanked Fr. Atipopo for his support, recalling how learners previously studied under trees due to a lack of classrooms.
He also noted that Fr. Atipopo had provided 26 desks after noticing that pupils had none.
While acknowledging that the teachers’ strike had disrupted learning, he expressed disappointment that some parents still refused to send their children back even after schools reopened.
The Chairperson of the School Management Committee (SMC) also appreciated Fr. Atipopo for the new classroom block and appealed for help in constructing dormitories for both boys and girls to further improve performance.
He called on parents to unite regardless of denomination, reminding them that although the school is Catholic-founded, it serves children of all faiths.
Fr. Stanislaus Atipopo revealed that the classroom block was donated by Lira Diocese with sponsorship from KREISTAG DONAURIES (FOUR STONES FOR AFRICA), friends of the Diocese. The project cost UGX 80 million.
Last year, Onyakede Primary School registered 28 PLE candidates, of whom 24 passed while 4 failed. The school administration expressed hope for even better results this year, thanks to the improved learning environment.
