By Aruca Dickens, Radio Wa, Lira Diocese

Education stakeholders and residents of Otuke District are struggling to come to terms with a troubling report that a 13-year-old girl, who emerged among the best performers in the 2025 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) with an aggregate of 8, has reportedly become pregnant during the school holiday.

The minor, whose identity is being withheld for protection, had secured admission to a secondary school on scholarship. The incident has left the district’s education authorities deeply concerned and disappointed.

The District Education Officer (DEO) for Otuke, Lucy Acheing, revealed the development while closing a two-day Star Education training workshop for headteachers and their deputies from both government and private schools.

Acheing urged parents and guardians to take greater responsibility in supervising their children, particularly during holidays. She noted that lack of proper monitoring, such as allowing children to move freely at night, has contributed to such unfortunate incidents.

In a related development, Otuke District LC5 Chairperson, Francis Abola, also expressed disappointment over the matter. He emphasized that the district leadership does not tolerate early pregnancies or child marriage and assured the public that investigations will be conducted, with firm action to follow.

The incident has reignited concern over child safety and parental responsibility in Otuke District. Leaders are now calling for stronger collaboration between families, schools, and authorities to protect children and preserve their educational opportunities.

 

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