The head of the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda, Dr Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu has weighed in on the raging debate about denying pregnant learners access to schools.
While speaking to the media yesterday, the Archbishop argued that schools are not equipped to deal with the health challenges that may emerge within the first three weeks of pregnancy.
He added that a blanket permission flies in the face of a national commitment to ensure a reduction in maternal mortality.
The Archbishop questioned the fate of boy fathers who are now being forced to provide for their expectant baby mothers, asking that more realistic options should be explored.
School opened on Monday after nearly two years of closure over the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the Bishop, the church is concerned about the growing liberalization about the ongoing issue.
“We are of the view that these issues should be addressed by all stake holders and should be addressed at different level.”
The Archbishop’s comments follow an initial statement by the Bishop of Mukono Diocese James Ssebagala who called for all pregnant girls to be denied permission to church founded schools when classes resumed on Monday.
Whereas state minister JC Muyingo counteracted the Bishop’s words by saying that state policy allows pregnant girls to be in school and he promised to talk to the Bishop.
However, the head most honcho of the Anglican church seems to be in support of his subordinate and in a brewing conflict between church and state, the plot only thickens.
