Tragedy Strikes As 9-Year-Old Pupil Detained Over School Fees Balance Commits Suicide, Three arrested

In a heart-wrenching incident, the police in Kyazanga, Lwengo district, are delving into the circumstances surrounding the tragic suicide of 9-year-old pupil Joel Ojuma. The young boy, enrolled at COLOH Children’s Foundation and residing in Byuma zone, Kyazanga Town Council, reportedly took his own life by hanging on Saturday, November 25.

The grim turn of events unfolded after the school closed for the holidays on Friday, November 24, retaining some pupils who hadn’t settled their school dues. When Joel’s sister, Kasifa Alinda, attempted to pick him up, the bursar prevented her from doing so. Subsequently, Joel was left in the dormitory with another student, Allan Lwanga, who was collected by his parents the following day.

Police reports indicate that the school ended up with only two pupils—Joel Ojuma and a girl named Ramula Namugga—who were isolated in separate dormitories. Around 12:00 PM on Saturday, the school cook, identified as Robert, sent Ramula to deliver food to Joel. Tragically, she discovered him lifeless, hanging by a rope in his dormitory.

The girl promptly informed a teacher, who, in turn, alerted the school director about the distressing incident. The school director reported the matter to the police, leading to the registration of a case of suicide by hanging (vide KZG CRB/293/2023). Law enforcement officers visited the scene, where three suspects were apprehended—Chris Matovu (Director), Julius Sekatawa (Headteacher), and Muzafaru Kagenda (Bursar)—on charges of causing frustration to the pupil that ultimately led to the tragic suicide.

As the investigation unfolds, questions arise about the school’s handling of fee-related matters and the emotional toll it took on a vulnerable young life.