Ebola Fears Keep Students Away as Mubende Schools Register Low Turnout
By Henry Kitamirike
MUBENDE — Several schools in Mubende District have reported a lower-than-expected turnout of students following the reopening of schools, as concerns over the Ebola outbreak continue to worry parents despite government assurances that the situation is under control.
School administrators, particularly in institutions with large student populations and boarding sections, say many parents are delaying the return of their children to school as they wait for health authorities to declare the outbreak fully contained.
At some schools, including Kasenyi Secondary School, attendance figures were significantly below expectations during the first days of the new term. School leaders expressed concern that prolonged absenteeism could negatively affect learners’ academic performance if the trend continues.
Addressing a General Parents Meeting on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, the District Health Officer urged residents to remain calm and avoid panic, noting that health authorities are closely monitoring the situation. He emphasized the importance of observing preventive measures, including regular handwashing, avoiding physical contact with suspected patients, and reporting any Ebola-related symptoms to health facilities immediately.
The Ministry of Education and Sports has directed schools across the district to strengthen hygiene and sanitation measures by providing handwashing facilities, conducting health screening where necessary, and intensifying awareness campaigns among learners and staff.
Health officials say the outbreak remains under investigation. According to the latest reports, Uganda has recorded 15 confirmed Ebola cases, one death, and 116 suspected cases linked to the outbreak, with some cases reportedly associated with cross-border movements from the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Education stakeholders are now calling for continued public sensitization to restore confidence among parents and ensure learners return to school without fear.
School administrators remain hopeful that attendance will improve in the coming weeks as health authorities continue efforts to contain the outbreak and reassure communities about the safety of learning institutions.