Storm

Authorities at Aketo Primary School in Ibuje Sub-county, Apac District, are seeking urgent assistance to repair classrooms after a strong wind blew off the roof of a four-classroom block days before the reopening of the third term.
The storm struck Aketo Parish early Saturday morning, September 5, during downpour, destroying roofs, uprooting trees and damaging crops in several villages.
At Aketo Primary School, the storm destroyed the roof of a block housing four classrooms, as well as the headteacher's office, which was also being used as a book store.
Patrick Agole, the headteacher, said the damage had affected classrooms, learning materials and important school records.
"The wind has removed the who roof destroying the iron sheets and the timbers. It also destroyed the solar panel of 70 watts which was for lighting the school. The important documents in the office of the headteacher and the text books are also destroyed," he said.
Agole said the school lacks the resources needed to repair the damaged block before learners return.
"I am calling upon the well wishers and the government to support us so that we can put back the roof before the reopening of the term," he added.
Aketo Primary School has more than 1,000 pupils from Primary One to Primary Seven and has for years faced a shortage of classrooms.
The latest damage has worsened the situation, with school authorities warning that learners could be forced to study in temporary shelters or under trees if the classrooms are not repaired.

Sub-county promises support
Alex Ogota, the LC3 chairperson of Ibuje Sub-county, said local leaders would meet school authorities to discuss how to respond to the damage.
"As the sub-county leader, I will help them in mobilising resources so that we can put back the roof of these classroom blocks," he said.
Ogota also urged the school to plant trees around the compound to help protect buildings from strong winds in future.
"The trees around the school have been cut down leaving the buildings exposed. They should plant trees although it is not going to provide the immediate solution," he added.
The storm has added to the school's long-standing infrastructure challenges, increasing pressure on authorities to find an immediate solution before thousands of pupils return for the third term.