Lamwo: Paloga primary school in acute desk shortage

Pupils at Paloga Primary School in Paloga sub-county are facing severe classroom challenges as a shortage of desks continues to affect learning.

Reports indicate that children in Primary One to Primary Three (P1–P3) are forced to sit on the floor during lessons, raising concerns about the quality of education and the welfare of the learners.

The issue, according to Richard Orach, resident of Paloga, is widespread. He said, “The issue of desk shortage is everywhere in Lamwo. Schools are struggling to provide even basic learning facilities for children.”

Parents and community members have expressed deep concern over the situation. One parent, Grace Lonyo, said, “It is painful to see our children sitting on the floor while trying to write. This affects their health and makes learning very difficult. We hope the authorities will act quickly.”

Another parent, Peter Okello, added, “We know resources are limited, but something must be done. Our children deserve a proper learning environment.”

A primary three pupil, James Lonyo, said, “It is very hard to write on the floor. Sometimes my back hurts, and I cannot concentrate. I wish we had desks like other schools.”

The headteacher Okot Margaret Aleng confirmed the challenge, saying, “The shortage of desks is affecting teaching and learning.

She said the teachers are doing their best to manage with the available resources, but the situation is difficult. She appeals to the government, development partners, and the community to come in and support our school.”

In response to the challenge, old students of Padibe Primary School who are also affected by the same problem have launched a fundraising exercise to secure over 100 desks for the school.

Richard Orach noted that “so far, only a few have fulfilled their pledges,” urging more alumni and community members to come forward and support education activities.

DEO, Banabas Langoya, acknowledged the situation and said, education department is aware of the desk shortage at Paloga Primary School and other schools in the district.

He said the education office is engaging partners and exploring all possible avenues to provide the necessary furniture. In the meantime, we appeal to the community and well-wishers to assist where possible to ensure children have a proper learning environment.”

Paloga sub-county chairperson Akera Anthony, also pledged to work with the district education authorities to mobilize resources for additional desks.

Education stakeholders stress that providing adequate learning facilities is crucial for improving school attendance, boosting academic performance, and ensuring that pupils have a conducive environment to learn.

The desk shortage at Paloga Primary School is part of a broader trend affecting several schools in the rural Lamwo district, highlighting the need for targeted interventions from both the government and development partners to improve basic education infrastructure.