Kabale School’s Bizarre Demand: Students Must Bring Hens As One Of The Compulsory Requirements For Newcomers; School Management Speaks Out After Mixed Reactions

The Director of Child Nursery and Primary Care School in Kabale, Mr. Innocent Mbine, has come forward to address the uproar caused by the school’s unusual request for each pupil to bring a hen as part of their requirements, assuring parents of the initiative’s benefits.

Parents in Kabale Municipality were taken aback by the school’s directive, which mandated new entrants to provide a hen each, alongside the usual school supplies. This peculiar request sparked confusion and frustration among parents struggling to fulfill the basic needs of their children.

Mr. Mbine clarified that the initiative stemmed from a 2019 decision by parents to establish a poultry project aimed at improving the school’s meal options. The project, envisioned to provide eggs and chicken as dietary supplements, has since gained momentum, with plans for expansion to ensure sustainability and enhance teacher welfare.

In an interview with NTV Uganda, Mr. Mbine emphasized the nutritional benefits of incorporating eggs into students’ diets, promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle among pupils. He urged parents to embrace the initiative, stressing its approval as a legitimate school requirement.

Annet Ainembazi, an alumna of the school, echoed Mr. Mbine’s sentiments, praising the initiative for its contribution to students’ nutritional well-being.

The Chairman of the Parents Teachers Association, Mr. Anatoli Kabeireho, expressed support for the initiative, urging other schools to follow suit in integrating eggs and chicken into students’ meals.

While the move has garnered support from within the school community, it has also raised eyebrows and drawn attention to the broader issue of unrealistic school requirements and excessive fees imposed on parents.

The government of Uganda has previously cautioned school administrators against imposing exorbitant charges and unrealistic demands on parents. It remains to be seen whether authorities will respond to this specific case, which has shed light on the silent yet significant requirements imposed on parents amidst the challenges of meeting steep school fees.