By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu,
SHEEMA
Learning has resumed at Rwengiri Primary School in Kigarama Sub-county, Sheema District, following a lightning strike last week that claimed the lives of two pupils and left several others injured.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, June 19, during afternoon hours when lightning struck the school amid a heavy downpour. Two pupils—Isabella Kemigisha, 10, a Primary Three pupil, and Benson Bainomugisha, 9, a Primary One pupil, died shortly after being rushed to Bushenyi Medical Centre (BMC) in Kabwohe.
Kemigisha was the daughter of Godfrey Kamugisha Koono of Kiyungu, Bwayegamba, while Bainomugisha was the son of Sam Ntunguura, a resident of Kyengando, all in Kigarama Sub-county.
Fourteen pupils in total were affected by the strike. Of these, twelve were treated and discharged in stable condition on Thursday, June 20, according to school authorities.
The two deceased were laid to rest on Friday, June 21, at their respective ancestral homes amid grief from family, friends, and the school community.
The Rwengiri Primary School headteacher, Benards Bangirana confirmed that learning activities had resumed and pupils were recovering well.
“We are now about relieved. The children who were discharged are now fine and in good conditions, and teaching has returned to normal,” Bangirana said.
He commended the police and local community for their swift support and coordination during the emergency.
“It was indeed a serious tragedy, but God helped us through the situation. The police guided us well, and the community stood with us during the difficult time,” he added.
However, local leaders continue to urge the government to enforce installation of lightning conductors in rural schools to ensure safety and prevent future tragedies.
