Kole, Uganda | Aculbanya Secondary School in Kole District is battling a worsening water crisis as its student population swells beyond 1,300, leaving only one borehole to serve the entire school community.
School authorities say the situation has reached a critical point.
The Deputy Headteacher, George Odongo, disclosed that the school had entered into a temporary arrangement with neighbouring Aculbanya Primary School to allow students to access water from their borehole.
However, this shared facility is no longer sufficient to meet the growing demand.
Odongo made the remarks during a career guidance and counselling session organized by the Aculbanya Secondary School Old Students Association (AOSA).
He appealed to government agencies, NGOs, and development partners to support the school in securing an additional water source.
He warned that the lack of clean water is not just a health risk but could also impact academic performance if left unaddressed.
This is not the first time Aculbanya SS has raised concerns over its infrastructure needs.
Last year, Headteacher Chagan Dick cited the lack of proper transportation after the school lost its Tata Lorry to government soldiers in previous years.
Although Kole Woman MP Judith Alyek promised to follow up on a government pledge to provide a new school bus, the commitment has yet to materialize.
Amidst these challenges, the school continues to receive support from its alumni. AOSA Vice Chairperson Tonny Okello commended the school for allowing old students to engage with learners during mentorship activities.
He said the association had donated a new school signpost and pledged continued support to help improve learning conditions.
Established in 1982, Aculbanya SS has produced professionals in various sectors and remains one of the prominent education institutions in Kole.
The current crisis, however, underscores the urgent need for coordinated intervention to ensure the school can meet its basic operational needs and continue serving the community.
School administrators, alumni, and education advocates are now calling on relevant authorities to act swiftly and provide lasting solutions to the water and transport issues facing Aculbanya Secondary School.