Soroti City education authorities have directed government-aided primary schools to prioritize tree planting as part of efforts to address the growing effects of climate change.
The directive follows a recent environmental initiative in which at least two government primary schools received 100 tree seedlings from Community Integrated Development Initiatives (CIDI) during World Earth Day activities. The move is aimed at restoring environmental cover and promoting sustainability in learning institutions.
The donated seedlings included species such as tamarind, terminalia, mahogany, shea nut, and albizia, all selected for their environmental and economic benefits.
Soroti City Education Officer Micheal Oguria said the city has already introduced environmental clubs in schools, commonly known as PUPs, to encourage learners to actively participate in tree planting and conservation efforts.
“We have directed all schools to take up greening initiatives, especially tree planting, as a way of addressing environmental hazards,” Oguria said.
He added that the education department is working closely with partner organizations to expand the initiative, revealing that they are expecting an additional 1,000 tree seedlings from a partner company.
Oguria urged school heads to take the directive seriously and ensure that tree planting becomes part of routine school activities to help build a more sustainable environment.
Simon Oumo, head teacher of Father Hilda’s Primary School, welcomed the initiative after receiving 50 tree seedlings. He noted that involving pupils in environmental activities is key to creating long-term behavioral change.
“When learners are involved directly, they develop a sense of responsibility toward the environment. This will help them embrace tree planting and conservation practices even in the future,” Oumo said.
He added that the school has already formed environmental clubs to lead the initiative and ensure proper care of the planted trees.
Similarly, Emmanuel Etieku, head teacher of Soroti Demonstration Primary School, said each pupil will be assigned a tree to ensure proper maintenance and survival of the seedlings.
“We are assigning each learner a tree to take care of so that none of them dries up due to neglect,” Etieku explained.
He added that the school plans to expand tree planting efforts to improve both the environment and the overall learning atmosphere.
Education authorities believe that integrating tree planting into school activities will not only help mitigate climate change effects but also instill a culture of environmental responsibility among young learners.
