Issues such as absenteeism, high failure rates, and economic pressures, including boys working in sugarcane plantations to support their families, have contributed to the problem.
The District Inspector of Schools for Iganga, Ms. Sarah Kwagala, has expressed concern over the growing number of boys dropping out of school, attributing the issue to the limited focus on boy children in various government interventions.
Many initiatives have been aimed at supporting girls, leaving boys overlooked.
Ms Kwagala pointed out that in many cases, boys are forced to become breadwinners for their families, which leads them to abandon their education.
"Our research shows that a significant number of boys are dropping out and failing to sit for their exams. The failure rate among boys is now higher compared to girls," she said.
Ms Kwagala called on parents and stakeholders to collaborate in supporting boys' education.
She made these remarks on Wednesday during the commissioning ceremony of 59 Primary Seven candidates at Canon Ibula Primary School, located in CMS, Bulamagi Sub-county, Iganga District.
The event was presided over by the Bishop of Central Busoga Diocese, Rt Rev Patrick Wakula.
Ms
. Kwagala explained that issues such as absenteeism, high failure rates, and economic pressures, including boys working in sugarcane plantations to support their families, have contributed to the problem.
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"We are using all available platforms to raise awareness in the community," she added.
Bishop Wakula, while blessing the candidates, urged parents to balance interventions for both girls and boys.
He highlighted the challenge of child labor among boys, particularly in the sugarcane industry, and stressed the importance of nurturing all children equally.
"Many boys are dropping out of school to work in sugarcane plantations, which is a serious concern. If we want to raise responsible future parents, we need to support all children," Rev Wakula said.
Canon Ibula Primary School's Head Teacher, Mr. Nabwiso Godfrey, assured that the candidates are well-prepared for their upcoming Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) and encouraged both students and parents to remain focused in the final days leading up to the exams.
He also advised parents to keep their children close, warning against entrusting them to relatives who may not have their best interests at heart.
The growing number of boy dropouts in Iganga remains a pressing issue, with authorities calling for a more inclusive approach to ensure that all children, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities for education and personal development.
