Arua Central Division Schools Shift to Walking Following Government Ban on Vans and Lorries for Trips
Players during a match at St. Leo play grounds in Mvara on Wednesday
Primary schools in Arua Central Division have resorted to walking pupils to sports competitions following the government’s ban on transporting learners in vans and lorries for school trips and co-curricular activities.
The directive comes in the wake of a series of fatal road accidents involving schoolchildren. In one of the deadliest incidents, a crash claimed the lives of 20 pupils and one adult, with the death toll later rising to 24. The tragedy, along with several other school transport accidents, prompted the government to suspend school trips and introduce stricter safety measures.
The Arua Central Division primary school games kicked off on Monday, attracting 40 schools from across the division.
David Ochora, a member of the organizing committee of the Arua Central Division Games and Sports Association, said all participating schools are now required to walk to competition venues, which have been selected to ensure they are accessible to everyone.
Ochora explained that the organizing committee has also adjusted the match schedules to give schools enough time to reach the playgrounds safely without using prohibited vehicles.
“The safety of our learners comes first. Some schools are coming from quite a distance, and since they are no longer allowed to transport children in vans and lorries, we give them enough time to walk to the venue. We also allow time for the children to eat well and take enough water before they play,” he said.
Teachers have welcomed the move, saying it will only succeed if all adults involved take responsibility for the safety of every child during the competitions.
Adiga Ben James, the games teacher at Iklas Nursery and Primary School, urged teachers to look out for all pupils, not just those from their own schools, as they move to and from the playing fields.
“Every child deserves protection. Even if a pupil is not from your school, you should help them if they are in danger or need assistance. We must work together to ensure all the children are safe. Where one school lacks first aid supplies, another can help because we are all here for the same purpose,” Adiga said.
Ben Acidri, the games teacher at Arua Prisons Primary School, said teachers accompany learners throughout the journey to minimize the risk of accidents.
“We move together with the learners from school to the playground and back again. Even our scouts help guide them along the way. When children move as a group under the supervision of teachers, they are much safer,” Acidri said.
The competition has now reached the Round of 16 and quarter-final stage, with the semi-finals and finals expected to be played on Thursday.