BY JOACKIM KULE
Concerned youth in Kasese district have revealed that they are not happy with the parenting gaps and the implementation of some formulated policies which are aimed fighting for their rights.
The youth argue that much as government has formulated policies, their rights continue to be violated by many actors especially in schools and the communities in which they live.
They sounded the revelation last evening while speaking to our reporter during the commemoration of the Day of an African Child that was organized by Kasese District Local Government with support from Civil Society Organizations.
The day was celebrated under the theme, “Education for all children in Africa, the Time is now!” and it was held at Kasese District Multipurpose Social Hall in Nyamwamba Division of Kasese Municipality.
Mr. Alfat Mumbere, the Speaker of the Uganda National Students’ Association, Kasese branch says the parents and some government organs are not fulfilling their roles in ensuring that their children are brought up morally.
According to Mumbere, some policies that have formulated to promote education for all in schools have remained unimplemented, hence leading to poor performance of the learners especially in the rural based schools.
Ms. Joan Atholere, a Senior Four Student at Munkunyu Secondary School in Kinyamaseke Town Council stresses that some cases of defilement and child labour are still happening because some parents do not discuss with their children at their respective homes.
Atholere says the act creates a big gap between the parents and children, thus leading to lack of awareness about the challenges that might befall them when they get involved in some dubious activities.
In his remarks, the Kasese Resident District Commissioner, Lt. Joe Walusimbi, who was the Chief Guest, told the gathering that the testimonies presented by the youth were a challenge to the parents and implementers of the formulated policies.
He called upon the parents to take care of the children and facilitate their education irrespective of their gender and race.
He subsequently warned police against the alleged practice of conniving with the perpetrators of violations against children’s rights.
Mr. Eliphaz Muhindi Bukombi, the Kasese District Chairperson, however, told the children to be obedient and respectful to their parents in order for them to live longer.
He also told them to set their career ambitions early enough so that they get the courage to work towards fulfilling them.
ENDS