The Second Deputy Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Hafidh Muhammad Harunah Bukenya, has called on Muslim parents to prioritize their children's education, describing it as a key driver for opportunity and improved livelihoods.

Speaking as the Chief Guest at the end-of-year Speech Day for Kitwe Islamic Nursery & Primary School, Sheikh Bukenya emphasised the importance of education and unity within the Muslim community.

He represented the Mufti of Uganda, His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, at the event held in Ntenjeru County, 100 miles from Kayunga Town near Lake Kyoga.

Sheikh Bukenya urged parents to rally behind the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC), the unifying body for Muslims in Uganda.

He highlighted UMSC's developmental programs, such as household income-generation initiatives like coffee and tree planting, which he said could empower families economically.

He also encouraged parents to engage fully in government poverty-alleviation efforts, such as the Parish Development Model, to improve their livelihoods.

As part of a fundraising effort, Sheikh Bukenya donated Shs 1.5 million towards renovating the school's infrastructure. He also pledged 100 copies each of the Holy Qur'an, Yasarina, and Juz Amma to enhance Islamic education at the school.

In a significant development during the event, Sheikh Halid Ssetimba, the school proprietor and former Kibuli County Sheikh, announced that his mosque congregation had resolved to rejoin the UMSC fold.

Reflecting on past disputes, he stated, "We wasted time and resources fighting the UMSC instead of fostering unity. We now refocus on education and unity under the UMSC."

His remarks were met with chants of "Allahu Akbar" from an audience largely composed of parents.

Kitwe Islamic Nursery & Primary School is the only established school in Ntenjeru County, serving a community near Kawongo Trading Centre.