By Rodgers Omondi, Busia
Butula MP Joseph Oyula has called for increased investment in the education of the girl child, describing it as a key empowerment strategy that will protect girls from challenges such as early pregnancies, gender-based violence, and other social threats.
Speaking during the official opening of the Busire Primary School storey tuition and administration block with 10 classrooms and 2 administration funded through the NG-CDF in Butula Sub County, Oyula said addressing the challenges facing girls requires commitment from both parents and the community to ensure they remain in school and achieve their full potential.
“When we protect our girls and invest in their education, we are building their future. They are our hope for tomorrow. Let us put all efforts together and ensure they stay in school and receive quality education, which will help reduce cases of early pregnancies, gender-based violence, and other social challenges,” he said.
The MP urged parents to take a leading role in supporting their children’s education and ensuring equal opportunities for both boys and girls.
“As parents, all children must be treated equally because they have equal rights to education. We cannot tolerate a situation where a boy is taken to school while a girl remains at home. This week alone, I have handled two cases of parents who had refused to take their daughters to school, and I have personally taken the responsibility to ensure the girls are back in school and will take care of their fees.” he added.
Oyula also announced plans to construct a secondary school in Busire through NG-CDF support to improve access to education, particularly for girls who currently travel long distances to attend school.
“Our children should not have to walk long distances in search of education. We have already started plans to build Busire Secondary School, which will accommodate our girls and secure a better future for our community,” he said.
He further urged residents to support leaders with a proven development track record, especially as the political season approaches.
“Let us support leaders who prioritize development and have a clear vision for the people. We should not be swayed by empty promises but focus on those committed to improving services such as education infrastructure,” Oyula noted.
Butula Sub-county TSC Director Robert Masika echoed the MP’s sentiments, calling on parents to actively participate in their children’s education.
“The government has ensured schools have teachers, funding, and other necessary support. The remaining responsibility lies with parents to work closely with teachers and ensure their children succeed academically,” said Masika.
He praised the MP’s efforts in improving the learning environment, challenging both teachers and learners to match the improved infrastructure with better academic performance.
“This is a challenge to both learners and teachers. As leaders work hard to provide better facilities, we expect improved academic results. As TSC, we remain committed to addressing teacher-related issues promptly for the benefit of our learners,” he added.
Busire Comprehensive School head teacher Charles Ouma raised concern over low involvement of male parents in their children’s education, calling for greater participation.
“Many fathers are neglecting their responsibilities by failing to engage in their children’s academic progress. I urge them to attend school meetings and regularly follow up with teachers to understand how their children are performing,” he said.
