The headmaster of Bupoto Primary School has been arrested after allegedly admitting to the Minister for Local Government, Hon. Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, that he had been including over 300 non-existent pupils on the school’s enrollment register every year in order to receive additional government funding.

According to Hon. Balaam, the fraudulent practice has caused significant financial losses to the government by diverting resources meant to support genuine learners. The minister condemned the alleged misuse of public funds, saying such actions undermine government efforts to improve education and ensure effective service delivery.

During the engagement, the headmaster reportedly expressed remorse and apologized to the President of the Republic of Uganda, His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. He pledged that he would not repeat the misconduct and appealed for forgiveness.

While inspecting the area, Hon. Balaam also observed that Bupoto Primary School and the neighboring Namisindwa Secondary School, which are located next to each other, do not have access to a reliable source of clean water. He emphasized that learners need safe and clean water to remain healthy, hydrated, and able to concentrate on their studies.

The minister directed the district LC V leadership to ensure that a borehole is constructed to serve both Bupoto Primary School and Namisindwa Secondary School. He said the shared water source would improve access to clean water, enhance sanitation, and provide a healthier learning environment for learners and staff at both institutions.