SAGRASS Lira leads in girl child education and holistic learning

Lira | St. Gracious Senior Secondary School (SAGRASS) Lira City has launched innovative programs to keep girls in school while also equipping students with life skills outside of the classroom.

The school’s dedication was highlighted during an exclusive interview with Gloria Clare Apio, the senior female teacher at Gracious Palace Hotel, on Friday, on the sidelines of Lira City’s belated Women’s Day celebrations at the Mayor’s Garden.

Apio emphasized the school’s commitment to lowering girls’ dropout rates by creating a supportive and engaging learning environment.

“At St. Gracious, we do not just teach academics; we instill in our students confidence, health, and cultural pride,” she said.

To promote physical and mental wellness, the school recently took students to the Gracious Palace Hotel’s Gym and Spa, where they engaged in fitness and aerobics, yoga and steam baths, physiotherapy and massage, sauna and corporate wellness sessions.

“A healthy student is a productive learner. We want our girls to grow strong, both in mind and body,” Apio adde

Regarding blending academics and cultural pride, she stated that the school incorporates cultural education through music, dance, and traditional gala events to keep students connected to their heritage.

“We train both boys and girls in cultural performances to preserve our identity. Parents should embrace this holistic approach,” Apio urged.

Academic excellence and growing institutions

Martin Ojok, the head teacher, stated that the school has 1,990 students. Of this, 820 are girls. The school ranked 2nd in Lango in the 2024 UACE exams, with three students scoring 20 points.

“We thank our parents for trusting us. Our goal is to produce all-rounded leaders,” Ojok said.

Dr. Patrick Olet, the Managing Director, revealed that St. Gracious is part of a larger network of schools, including:

• Leo Atugu College (Ngetta Campus)
• St. Gracious Secondary School (Main Campus, Boke Ward)
• St. Gracious Day Nursery & Primary School
• St. Gracious Boarding Primary School (Barapwo, Lira West)

“We opened these schools to raise education standards in the Lango Sub-region,” Dr. Olet stated.

He observed that health and wellness programs improve girls’ school retention, whereas cultural activities combat youth moral decay.

Director Olet added that academic success demonstrates the school’s effective model.

The school administration encourages parents to enroll their children, ensuring that they receive a balanced education that will prepare them for future success.