Two Pupils Killed After Classroom Collapses During Storm in Sheema District

Two Primary One pupils have died and three others are critically injured after a classroom collapsed during a heavy storm at Runyinya Primary School in Kigarama Sub-county, Sheema District in western Uganda.

The victims have been identified as Joseph Musasizi and Ayesigye Griphine, both pupils in Primary One.

According to local authorities, the collapse happened during severe weather conditions, with heavy rains and strong winds believed to have weakened the classroom structure before it fell.

Three other pupils were injured in the incident and are receiving medical attention. Their condition has been described as critical.

Sheema Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Sam Orikunda described the incident as tragic and conveyed condolences to the families of the deceased pupils.

“This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the families who have lost their children,” Orikunda said.

Authorities have launched investigations to establish the exact cause of the classroom collapse, including whether the building met required safety standards and whether structural weaknesses contributed to the disaster.

The incident has renewed concerns about the safety of school infrastructure in Uganda, particularly in rural areas where some schools operate in ageing or poorly maintained buildings.

Education officials and local leaders are expected to assess the condition of other classrooms at the school to determine whether additional safety measures are needed.

The deaths have left the Runyinya Primary School community mourning, with parents and residents calling for improved protection of learners during extreme weather events.