Apac, Uganda | Authorities in Apac District have temporarily closed Igoti Primary School in Ibuje Sub-county after a violent storm destroyed classrooms and teachers’ houses, forcing pupils to return home as leaders assess the damage and plan for recovery.
The storm, which struck on the evening of March 25, 2026, ripped off roofs from several classroom blocks and staff quarters, leaving the school unsafe for learning.
Apac District leaders said the decision to suspend classes was taken to protect learners as the district mobilises emergency support and evaluates temporary alternatives for the continuation of studies.
Speaking to this publication, Apac District Secretary for Education and Health, Sam Opira, said parents had been advised to keep their children at home until the school environment is made safe again.
“The situation at the school is not conducive for learning at the moment. We have advised parents to keep the children at home as the district works on immediate interventions,” Sam Opira said.
He added that while parents had expressed willingness to contribute towards reconstruction efforts, government support would be critical in restoring the damaged structures.
According to district officials, temporary arrangements such as tents and alternative learning spaces, including nearby churches, are being considered to ensure continuity of education.
The storm also turned tragic after it reportedly claimed the life of a four-year-old child within the school premises.
Several other injured victims were rushed to Apac General Hospital for treatment.
District leaders said a formal damage and incident report would be submitted to the Office of the Prime Minister to seek urgent intervention and support for reconstruction.
Meanwhile, Ibuje Sub-county LCIII Chairperson, Alex Ogotta, appealed to government to respond swiftly, saying the area has repeatedly suffered disasters without adequate assistance.
Alex Ogotta noted that local leaders had previously submitted a similar request for support in 2024, but no help was received.
Beyond the school, the storm is reported to have destroyed more than 29 houses in Igoti Cell, Aganga Parish, while several other homes were severely damaged, leaving a number of residents injured and displaced.
This is not the first time Igoti Primary School has been hit by a disaster.
In 2024, the school was submerged by heavy flooding, forcing pupils to study under trees and in unsafe temporary shelters.
District authorities now say efforts are underway to restore learning, with pupils expected to resume classes on Monday next week after emergency interventions are put in place.
However, local leaders warn that without urgent and lasting government support, the school community could remain vulnerable to recurring disasters.
