Members of the Education and Sports Committee in Parliament have voiced their opposition to the Ministry of Education and Sports’ decision to transfer the Higher Education Students Financing Board to its parent ministry. This move has raised concerns among lawmakers, who fear that it may negatively impact financially disadvantaged students who rely on the scheme for support.
During a session chaired by John Twesigye Ntamuhira, the MP for Bunyaruguru County, Minister of State for Higher Education, Dr. JC Muyingo, defended the decision, stating that it aims to reduce operational costs. However, Geoffrey Macho, the MP for Busia Municipality, cautioned against the transfer, expressing concerns about potential mismanagement under the ministry.
Connie Nakayenze Galiwango, the MP for Mbale City Woman, emphasized the committee’s reluctance to support the transfer, citing the ministry’s lack of transparency regarding government scholarships beneficiaries. Agnes Acibu, the MP for Nebbi Woman, echoed these sentiments, stressing that they cannot relinquish a scheme that has benefited financially disadvantaged individuals.
Despite Dr. JC Muyingo’s attempts to persuade committee members to endorse the policy, Emmanuel Ongietho, the MP for Jonam County, asserted that mere words would not sway their stance on the matter.
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