Okufura government aided Secondary in Arua district ( School file photo)

By: Our reporter

Schools across West Nile have intensified Ebola prevention measures as learners return for the second academic term amid growing fears over the Ebola outbreak in neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo.

Several schools in Zombo District and Arua City registered a low turnout of learners during the first days of reopening, with school administrators attributing the situation to fear among parents, financial challenges, and delayed reporting by learners.

Despite the low attendance, schools say they are working closely with guidelines issued by Uganda’s Ministry of Health to ensure the safety of children, teachers, and visitors while learning continues normally.

The Ministry of Health has advised schools to strengthen preventive measures including regular handwashing with soap, temperature screening at school entrances, proper sanitation, and immediate reporting of any suspected Ebola symptoms.

Health officials have also encouraged learners to avoid unnecessary physical contact, share information on Ebola prevention, and report any signs such as fever, vomiting, bleeding, severe headache, or body weakness to teachers or health workers immediately.

At Devine Nursery and Primary School in Zombo District, Director Robert Onegiu said only 140 out of 640 learners had reported back by the first day of the term. He said some parents fear sending children back to school because of concerns about Ebola and lack of school fees and requirements.

At Oturgang Boys Primary School, Headteacher Alex Susu said attendance remained low but expressed hope that more learners would continue reporting in the coming days.

Mvugu Upper Primary School in Arua district, Headteacher Edward Opar appealed to parents not to keep children at home, assuring them that schools have put in place all required Standard Operating Procedures to protect learners from possible infection.

In Arua City, Golden Treasure Nursery and Primary School Deputy Headteacher Govule Clement said the school has introduced strict monitoring measures despite the low turnout of learners.

At Springs Nursery and Primary School, Headteacher Etoma Geoffrey said temperature screening is ongoing for all visitors, teachers, and learners entering the school premises. He added that handwashing facilities have been placed at different points within the school to promote regular hygiene among children.

Meanwhile, Mvara Primary School Headteacher Taibu Florence said the school has intensified sensitization programmes to educate learners about Ebola prevention and personal hygiene.

She noted that the school administration has also introduced staggered meal schedules to reduce overcrowding during feeding time and minimize the risk of disease spread.

The Ministry of Health continues to urge parents not to panic but instead cooperate with schools and health authorities by encouraging children to observe hygiene measures while at school and in their communities.

The Ministry of Education maintained May 25, 2026, as the official reporting date for the second term despite concerns linked to the Ebola outbreak across the border.