Dokolo district woman MP Shara Aguti Nyangkori has urged parents across Lango to safeguard the lives of their children during the forthcoming holiday period.

The academic year for 2024 is set to conclude on December 5, 2024, as per the Ministry of Education’s calendar. Learners will enjoy a long holiday until early 2025.

MP Aguti noted that the future of the nation lies in the hands of the younger generation.

“As a mother, I emphasize the importance of focusing on the well-being of children,” she told Reporters, urging parents to engage in productive activities with their children to prevent them from associating with negative peer groups.

She expressed her disappointment towards some parents who do not prioritize their children’s education.

Recognizing that this holiday is lengthy, the UPC MP implores parents to keep their children occupied to prevent them from entering into early marriages before completing their education.

Across the Lango sub-region, early or teenage marriages is a trend that has affected both boys and girls.

“As leaders, we will not tolerate any parents who force their daughters into marriage. We will collaborate closely with local council chairpersons to identify any parents who violate this law.”

Aguti, who also serves on the Education Committee in the Ugandan Parliament, underscored the significance of education for the nation’s future, highlighting the crucial role that teachers play in imparting knowledge across various educational institutions.

She encourages parents to begin saving in preparation for the upcoming academic year and advises them to consider technical schools for those children who may struggle in secondary education, rather than resorting to early marriages, which is detrimental to our country.

Oyam is one of the districts with the highest rates of teenage pregnancies.