Oyam District Calls For Mandatory Installation Of Lightning Arresters in Schools Following Tragic Death of Senior Six Candidate

By our reporter

Following the heartbreaking death of a Senior Six student at Atapara Secondary School due to a lightning strike, authorities in Oyam District have issued a directive requiring all schools within the district to install lightning arresters. This measure aims to enhance safety and prevent further fatalities resulting from thunderstorms.

Speaking at the Annual General Meeting held at Loro Secondary School over the weekend, David Adea, the Acting District Education Officer (DEO) of Oyam, emphasized the urgency of implementing the new safety protocol. He urged all school administrators to prioritize the installation of lightning arresters immediately, highlighting that the safety of students, staff, and the wider school community must be the district’s top priority.

Alfred Ojok, Headteacher of Loro Secondary School, expressed full support for the directive. He revealed that the school has already commenced collecting contributions of 20,000 shillings per student to fund the procurement and installation of lightning arresters. Ojok also noted that part of the collected funds would be allocated towards purchasing a school bus and settling existing debts, demonstrating the district’s commitment to improving overall school infrastructure.

On a similar note, Vicky Atim Oyite, the LC5 Councillor representing Loro Town Council and Loro Sub-county, and also a parent at Loro Secondary School, called on all parents across the district to embrace and support the safety initiative. She stressed that protecting children from preventable dangers like lightning strikes is a shared responsibility and critical for fostering a safe learning environment.

During the meeting, Robert Ekwaro, the LC3 Chairperson of Loro Town Council, highlighted a concerning trend: the rising number of lightning-related incidents in Oyam District. He attributed this increase partly to the theft of lightning protection equipment from some schools, which compromises safety measures. Ekwaro also cautioned parents and students against risky behaviors during thunderstorms, such as making phone calls or using electronic devices, as these activities may increase the likelihood of being struck.

The district’s move to install lightning arresters comes in the aftermath of a tragic three-week period marked by two lightning-related deaths. In one such incident at Global View Nursery and Primary School in Kamdini Town Council, a teacher was struck and killed while conducting a lesson, leaving several pupils—mainly in Primary Four and Five—with serious injuries. These incidents have galvanized the district authorities to act swiftly and decisively.

In addition to the installation of lightning arresters, the district is also planning to conduct awareness campaigns to educate students, teachers, and parents on lightning safety precautions. This includes advice on seeking safe shelter during storms and avoiding the use of electronic devices outdoors. The district is also exploring partnerships with safety organizations to provide training and resources to bolster lightning protection measures.

District officials hope that these immediate actions will significantly reduce lightning-related accidents and fatalities, fostering a safer environment for learning and community life across Oyam.