Lira, Uganda | A Catholic priest has called for renewed commitment to education and collaboration among parents, teachers, and community leaders, warning that development will continue to stagnate unless stakeholders work in unity and prioritise knowledge.
Rev. Fr. Stanislaus Atipopo, Administrator of Gomi Sub Parish, delivered the message while leading a dedication service for Primary Seven candidates and presiding over the commissioning of a new classroom block at Onyakede Primary School in Amach Subcounty.
In his address, Fr. Atipopo said education remains the strongest tool for lifting communities out of poverty and promoting social transformation.
“Knowledge is like a lamp that lights the world,” he said. “God does not drop knowledge from heaven. It must be sought, taught, and applied.”
He urged candidates preparing for their Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) to view their exams as an opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge they have acquired and to use it for the good of society.
Fr. Atipopo cautioned parents against dismissing education due to rising unemployment, stating that no home, regardless of religion or economic status, can develop without it.
The priest criticised attitudes among some parents who resisted the reopening of schools following the recent teachers’ strike, saying educators are doing their best despite poor remuneration.
“The strike was a call for fairness, not an excuse for parents to abandon their duty,” he said. “Teachers are struggling to guide your children. They need your cooperation, not resistance.”
He appealed for unity among parents, teachers and school administrators, stressing that development is only possible when communities work together.
Lira Diocese Education Secretary, Rev. Sr. Agnes Atala, MSMMC, praised Fr. Atipopo’s leadership reveals that the new classroom block was constructed after it was discovered that pupils were learning under trees.
She said the building was funded by KREISTAG DONAURIES under the initiative “Four Stones for Africa” at a cost of UGX 80 million.
Sr. Agnes said the Diocese oversees 379 schools, six of which are in urgent need of infrastructural support, including Onyakede, Alworo, Barlela, Abongorwot, Owiyodyek and Okile Primary Schools.
“There is no such thing as free education,” she said. “Quality learning requires shared commitment. Parents must play their part.”
The Headteacher of Onyakede Primary School said the new facility marks a turning point after years of inadequate infrastructure.
He noted that Fr. Atipopo previously donated 26 desks to address the lack of seating.
The School Management Committee chairperson appealed for boarding facilities to improve academic performance and protect learners from long walking distances.
Last year, the school registered 28 candidates for PLE, with 24 passing. With improved facilities and renewed community support, the administration expressed optimism for better outcomes this year.
Fr. Atipopo reminded the community that education, when combined with unity and moral values, has the power to transform society.
“We can only give what we have,” he said. “Let us seek knowledge, live in unity, and use what we learn to light the world.”
Lira Diocese News Agency