Kampala — THE government should offer assistance to private schools where, the Rev. Fr. Edward Ssebuliba, the Rector of Nswanjere Junior Seminary, has said.

"Private schools should be considered by the Ministry of Education and Sports when it comes to allocation of facilities."

Ssebuliba was addressing students, parents and education officers during celebrations to mark St. Joseph's Day, the seminary day, at their premises in Mpigi district recently.

He said his appeal for a share of water tanks that had been allocated by the ministry to schools in Mpigi was recently turned down.

"They said those tanks were meant for government schools and that private schools are supposed to fend for themselves," he said.

Located on a rocky hill, Nswanjere Seminary has for years struggled to acquire a stable and safe source of water supply. Today, the school, which trains priests and came top in last year's Primary Leaving Examinations in Mpigi district, is still struggling to construct a water pump.

He said just like others, schools such as Nswanjere Junior Seminary also play a key role in educating Ugandan citizens.

This is in addition to contributing to the development of the community. The seminary has established a community mixed boarding primary school, a dispensary and hopes to provide water for people in the neighbouring community.

James Ssebaggala, the Mpigi District Inspector of Schools, who was the chief guest, said there would be consideration for private schools.

He commended the seminary for being a torch-bearer in academics and co- curricular activities in the district.