By Alfred Opio
Leaders representing persons with disabilities in Pallisa District have raised concerns over the inaccessibility of the district education offices, saying the current structure makes it difficult for them to obtain services and present their grievances.
The education department is reportedly operating from a former storage building, with several key offices located upstairs. Disability leaders argue that the arrangement poses serious challenges, particularly for individuals with mobility impairments who cannot easily climb stairs.
Joseph Egole, the district councillor representing persons with disabilities, said his office has repeatedly engaged the education department about the matter but has yet to receive a lasting solution.
“Climbing up to meet the officials becomes a challenge to many of our people. We wonder why Pallisa is the only district where the education department operates from a storage building,” Egole said.
He noted that many persons with disabilities have important education-related concerns, including school access, special needs support, and welfare issues, but are unable to effectively communicate with officials due to the building’s design.
Egole described the situation as a violation of the rights of persons with disabilities and warned that his office may take further action if the department fails to address the accessibility concerns.
However, the Pallisa District Local Government through the District Education Officer, Ronald Omutujju, dismissed claims that persons with disabilities are excluded from services.
Omutujju explained that the education office operates both upstairs and downstairs, adding that persons with disabilities can seek assistance from the lower office where the officer in charge of special needs education is stationed.
“Concerns raised at the lower office are forwarded to the main offices upstairs, and sometimes we also operate from downstairs to directly serve them,” he said.
Despite the explanation, the issue continues to spark debate among stakeholders, with disability rights advocates calling for the construction of more inclusive public buildings and improved infrastructure to guarantee equal access to government services.
Community leaders argue that ensuring accessibility is not only a matter of convenience but also a legal and human rights obligation that promotes dignity and equal participation for all citizens.
