Latrine Crisis, Poor Infrastructure Threaten Closure of Hassa Memorial Primary

By Nasuru Hassan Ocen

Hassa Memorial Primary School in Adok Sub-county, Dokolo District, is confronting a severe latrine shortage that risks school closure due to public health concerns.

During the PTA Annual General Meeting on Friday, Head Teacher Boniface Opio revealed that existing latrines for boys and girls are in deplorable condition, nearly full and sinking, especially the girls’ facilities.

The school, with 1,446 learners (737 boys, 709 girls), risks shutdown if health inspectors deem sanitation unacceptable.

Besides latrine shortages, the school lacks desks, forcing young learners to sit on the floor, and many classrooms need urgent renovation.

Opio criticized parents for not contributing to the PTA development fund over the past four years, funds that could have helped build new latrines. He also reported high absenteeism and dropouts, with only 880 learners returning for the second term.

“We appeal to parents to support the school financially and encourage children to stay in school,” Opio urged.

School Management Committee Chairperson Dick Oyuku called on district leaders and well-wishers to support the school.

Oyuku highlighted achievements including nine staff houses and a boarding section hosting 42 Primary Seven candidates.

He announced the planting of one hectare of cocoa (507 seedlings) as a long-term income project, urging community protection of the plantation.

Sub-county Chief Susan Naume Amongi noted that three local schools, including Hassa Memorial, have embraced cocoa farming initiatives.

Adok LC3 Chairperson Rubby Ogwali promised to escalate the school’s challenges to district authorities and urged parental involvement and support for income-generating projects.