Oyam, Uganda | A teacher has died, and sixteen pupils sustained injuries after lightning struck a classroom at Global View Primary School in Nora Village, Kamdini Subcounty, Oyam District.
The incident occurred on February 17, 2026, at about 3:00pm during a heavy downpour, according to police in the North Kyoga region.
The deceased teacher was identified as Joseph, who suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on arrival at Atapara Hospital. His body remains at the facility pending postmortem examination.
Sixteen pupils who were injured in the lightning strike were rushed to Diicunyi Health Centre III for treatment.
Another teacher, Otim Jimmy, also sustained injuries and was taken to Atapara Hospital for medical attention.
North Kyoga Regional Police spokesperson SP Patrick Jimmy Okema said officers from Kamdini Police Station responded promptly to the scene using motor vehicle registration number UP 9771, driven by Sgt. Akena under the supervision of Sgt. Opira. The officers helped evacuate the victims to nearby health facilities.
Police said investigations into the incident are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the tragedy. By press time, authorities were still compiling particulars of the injured pupils.
Lightning-related incidents are common during the rainy season in northern Uganda, with authorities urging schools to strengthen safety measures, including installation of lightning arresters, to protect learners and staff.
