Headteachers of government schools, especially in Wakiso District, have been warned to exercise caution and strictly follow regulations or risk facing the law amid increasing enforcement against public servants.
The warning was issued by Frederick Kiyingi Kinobe, the outgoing Wakiso District Education Officer, during his official send-off ceremony organized by district authorities and education stakeholders as he retired from public service.
Speaking at the event, Kiyingi cautioned education leaders to take note of the changing enforcement climate under the current administration.
"The new government is firm on accountability. If you are not careful, you could easily find yourselves in prison," Kiyingi warned.
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He cited the ongoing operations against street vendors as a clear example that enforcement agencies are not sparing anyone.
"You have seen what is happening to traders on the streets. Do not assume it cannot happen to you. Follow the law and avoid trouble," he added.
The ceremony drew several district leaders, including Wakiso District Chairperson Matia Lwanga Bwanika and Chief Administrative Officer Jude Mark Bukenya, alongside school proprietors and other officials.
Bukenya echoed Kiyingi's concerns, urging all government workers to remain disciplined and cautious in their duties.
"All public servants must act responsibly and within the law. We must be careful in everything we do," Bukenya emphasized.
He also pointed out the challenges facing the education sector due to staffing gaps and called for the urgent appointment of a new District Education Officer.
"We are operating with limited personnel, which affects service delivery. We need a substantive officer to take charge," he noted.
District Chairperson Matia Lwanga Bwanika called for unity among education stakeholders to overcome existing challenges.
"Let us remain united as we face these challenges in the education sector. Unity will help us move forward," Bwanika said.
He commended Kiyingi for his dedicated service, noting that education standards in Wakiso had improved under his leadership.
The district's Human Resource Officer, Juliet Bakobe, urged leaders to lead by example.
"Those in leadership must demonstrate good conduct and integrity if they are to guide others effectively," she said.
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Wakiso Headteachers' Association Chairperson William Bwambaale praised Kiyingi's tenure but warned school heads against illegal practices, particularly overcharging parents for Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE).
"Some headteachers are imposing unauthorized charges on parents, especially for PLE. This is illegal and must stop," Bwambaale cautioned.
The send-off ceremony was marked by celebrations from students and tributes from various stakeholders, including police officers, who credited Kiyingi for his commitment to service.
However, Wakiso District continues to face a staffing crisis, with many positions remaining vacant due to the absence of a functional District Service Commission, a situation that has significantly affected service delivery.
