Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, the 2nd Deputy Mufti of Uganda, has expressed deep concern over the increasing incidents of school fires that have resulted in tragic losses of the lives of young learners and many others suffering severe burn injuries. These incidents have not only left parents in agony but have also led to the destruction of school infrastructure.
These sentiments were part of the speech delivered by Sheikh Waiswa as the main celebrant at a colorful event organized for special prayers dedicated to the primary seven candidates of Esteem Junior School. The candidates are scheduled to seat their Primary Leaving Examinations, commencing on November 8th, 2023. The school is situated in Bulaga Village, Wakiso District.
Sheikh Waiswa urged the government to take necessary steps to prevent such incidents and also appealed to them to regulate the flow of information, especially to prevent explicit content from reaching young people through easily accessible social media platforms.
He posed a crucial question to the parents and guardians in attendance, “What plans do you have to engage your children when they return from school after their examinations?”
Sheikh Waiswa encouraged parents to adopt more moderate approaches, such as building a strong bond with their children, to help them open up when facing life challenges. He emphasized the importance of teaching children religious doctrines and values to raise responsible citizens and discourage them from seeking advice from misguided individuals within the community.
Sheikh Waiswa expressed his sincere gratitude to the school administration for annually organizing such events where top religious leaders from various institutions officiate the prayers. On this occasion, it was in honor of the Muslim faith.
Prior to Sheikh Waiswa’s speech, Ms. Estella Mundeyi, the School Director, and Mr. Moses Ndibamwe Ntale, the Headteacher, provided an overview of the school. Esteem Junior School, now in its 14th year, occupies over 20 acres of land with extensive facilities, including classrooms, dormitories, and outdoor sports amenities, such as swimming pools, soccer fields, netball courts, and volleyball courts.
It stands as one of the prominent schools in East Africa, serving students from the entire region. According to Mr. Ntale, the school boasts a dedicated team of over a hundred qualified staff who undergo regular training sessions to ensure an ideal learning environment for the pupils.
“Our teachers are highly qualified and committed to fostering unity among individuals of various ethnic backgrounds and religious denominations. Our success is attributed to our faith in Almighty God,” Ms. Mundeyi emphasized.
The event saw the attendance of affluent parents, dedicated staff members, smartly attired candidates in school uniforms, including Muslim students who delivered moving Holy Quran recitals and participated in Muslim art performances. The event also welcomed local Muslim leaders and many other esteemed guests.
