Dokolo, Uganda | Efforts to address persistent poor academic performance in Dokolo District received a boost following the launch of a solar lamp distribution project targeting candidates in selected primary schools.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Lango Child and Community Development Federation (LACCODEF) in partnership with Economic Earth, a United States-based organization, was officially unveiled on Tuesday at Abakuli Primary School in Bata Town Council.
The project seeks to support Primary Six and Primary Seven pupils with solar lamps to enable extended study hours at home, particularly in rural communities where access to electricity remains limited.
Speaking at the launch, LACCODEF Programme Manager Tom Musika said many learners in Dokolo face challenges revising in the evening due to lack of lighting, a factor he noted has contributed to the district’s unsatisfactory academic performance over the years.
He explained that the intervention is being implemented as a pilot programme in selected schools to assess its impact on learners’ performance before possible expansion to other areas.
Nicole Watts, Founder of Economic Earth, said the organization partnered with local stakeholders after identifying education as a critical area requiring urgent support to improve learning outcomes among vulnerable communities.
She noted that providing solar lamps is intended to create equal learning opportunities for pupils regardless of their household economic status.
Representing the Dokolo District LCV Chairperson, Secretary for Health and Education Santo Okuja urged parents and guardians to safeguard the solar lamps and ensure they are strictly used by the intended beneficiaries.
He warned that misuse of the lamps could undermine the objectives of the programme aimed at improving examination performance in the district.
The first phase of the project has benefited pupils from Abakuli, Aderolong, Bata, and Apyenyang primary schools.
District education stakeholders expressed hope that improved access to lighting for home revision will enhance candidates’ preparedness for national examinations and gradually improve Dokolo’s education performance indicators.