“Lead with integrity” – Lamwo headteachers told as new association leadership starts work

Headteachers in Lamwo district have been urged to strengthen professionalism, avoid land conflicts, and support co-curricular activities as the district’s Headteachers’ Association ushered in a new leadership team.

The call was made during a meeting that brought together school administrators and education officials, where the newly elected chairperson of the Lamwo Headteachers’ Association, Akera Johnson Okella, officially assumed office.

Akera, who is also the headteacher of Agoro Primary School, emphasised the importance of unity and teamwork among education stakeholders to improve the quality of education in the district.

“Education can only improve when we work together as headteachers, teachers, and district education leaders. Cooperation and coordination are key to improving learning outcomes in our schools,” Akera said.

The former chairperson of the association, Otim John Bosco, who also serves as the headteacher of Gem Primary School, encouraged the new leadership to remain committed to strengthening collaboration among schools and education authorities at the district.

Otim noted that the association plays a crucial role in bringing headteachers together to address common challenges affecting schools in the district.

“I believe the new leadership will build on the foundation we have laid and continue promoting cooperation among headteachers for the good of our learners,” Otim said.

During the meeting, the Lamwo District Inspector of Schools, Joro Ben Washington, raised concern over reports that some school administrators have been involved in land disputes involving school property or community land.

Joro warned that such conflicts could undermine the integrity of headteachers and damage the reputation of the education sector.

“Headteachers are leaders and role models in their communities. When they become involved in land wrangles, it affects public trust and may disrupt the smooth running of schools,” he said.

He emphasized that school land is meant to support learning and the development of pupils, urging headteachers to handle any disputes through proper legal channels and in collaboration with local leaders.

Joro also reminded school administrators to maintain positive relationships with the communities surrounding their schools, noting that community support is vital for the success of education programs.

Meanwhile, the Lamwo District Education Officer, Banabas Langoya, expressed concern over the low support for sports and co-curricular activities in some schools across the district.

Langoya revealed that several schools have failed to contribute funds meant to facilitate sports activities, which has affected the district’s participation in national competitions.

Among the schools mentioned were Kwoncok Primary School, Ogakolacan Primary School, Dibalyec Primary School, Madi Opei Primary School, and Lelabul Primary School.

According to the DEO, the failure by some schools to remit the required funds led to the district missing out on the National Music, Dance and Drama (MDD) competitions last year.

“It is unfortunate that Lamwo District could not send pupils to the national MDD competitions due to inadequate financial support from schools,” Langoya said.

He stressed that co-curricular activities such as sports and Music, Dance and Drama are important in nurturing talents and promoting the holistic development of learners.

Langoya urged headteachers to prioritize these activities and ensure that their schools fulfill their financial obligations to support district programs.

He further warned that his office will follow up on schools that have not yet paid the required one million shillings meant to facilitate sports activities, especially for schools that qualify to represent the district at national competitions.

The meeting also saw the election of new leaders to head different committees within the Headteachers’ Association, including the examinations board, welfare committee, and the Music, Dance and Drama committee.

Education leaders expressed hope that the new leadership will strengthen coordination among schools and work closely with the District Education Office to improve academic performance and co-curricular participation across Lamwo district.