St. Francis Primary School for the Blind-Madera, located in Soroti City, is on the brink of closure due to a severe food shortage, threatening the welfare of its 122 visually impaired pupils.
The school currently operates on a modest Shs4.5 million from Government and Subvention Grants, supplemented by Shs3.5 million in PTA boarding fees collected each term.
However, this total is insufficient to meet the growing demands of learners, many of whom come from vulnerable backgrounds.
Sr. Rose Abongi Alyabo, the head teacher, says the school urgently needs Shs14.1 million each term to purchase enough food-approximately 60 kilograms of maize flour and beans.
She adds that the school heavily relies on donor support, especially from Mission for Africa, but this has dwindled due to economic constraints.
Beyond the food crisis, the institution is grappling with insecurity, theft, and a shortage of instructional materials.
Only 27 out of 43 Perkins braille machines are currently functional, yet the school cannot afford the Shs4.5 million needed per term for repairs and supplies.
Sr. Alyabo further revealed that the school’s adaptive technology program-meant to equip learners with computer skills-has suffered a major setback after 10 out of its 26 computers were stolen.
Fr. Henry Agit, chairperson of the School Management Committee (SMC), expressed concern over the dilapidated state of the teachers’ houses and rising insecurity, noting that staff frequently fall victim to theft.
In response, State Minister for Teso Affairs, Dr. Kenneth Clement Ongalo Obote, pledged to donate 110,000 iron sheets to support renovation efforts.
He also urged the school to keep the State Minister for Disability, Hellen Grace Asamo, updated on their challenges.
The minister, together with the Soroti City East Division Council, recently provided emergency food donations to the school.
Founded in 1955 by the Little Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Francis Primary School for the Blind-Madera remains a critical institution for inclusive education in the region.
Located in Majengo ‘A’ cell, Soroti East Division, the school continues to serve as a lifeline for children with visual impairments, despite its ongoing struggles.
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