National Teacher's College Kabale is facing an overwhelming task of rising over Ushs3.7 billion to renovate its dilapidated hostel structures and staff accommodation. The structures, constructed in 1956 by the Ministry of Education and Sports, are in dire need of repair.

During our reporter's visit to the college, it was observed that the student hostels still have roofs made of asbestos-type iron sheets, posing a threat to the residents' safety. The iron sheets also have holes, causing significant inconvenience to students, especially during rainfall. Cracks in the hostel structures further complex the problem.

 In 2013, the Parliament of Uganda issued a ban on the use of asbestos as roofing material in all schools and technical colleges. Despite this, hostels like Kaguta Hall, Mandela Hall, and Millennium Hall remain affected.

Komunda Annet, the Principal of National Teacher's College Kabale, acknowledged the accommodation challenges faced by both students and staff. She emphasized that the asbestos roofs condemned by the Ministry of Health make it uncomfortable for students, impacting their learning environment. Some halls are even experiencing falling walls.

Komunda explained that the estimated cost for renovating the hostels is over Ushs3.7 billion with each hall requiring an average of 600 million shillings. The dilapidated hostels have led to a decrease in student enrollment, with over 506 students among the 902 enrolled being forced to seek accommodation outside the college.

Komunda highlighted the financial hardships faced by students due to renting outside, making it challenging for them to raise college dues. The situation has prompted a plea for support to initiate the renovation process.

In a phone interview, Ainebyoona Emmanuel, the Ministry of Health Public Relations Officer, confirmed their awareness of the asbestos roofing issue and recommended replacement due to its health risks.

However, when our reporter contacted the Ministry of Education and Sports for information on potential support for the renovation, Dennis Mugimba, the PRO, refuted any knowledge of such plans, stating that he is not in a position to comment on the matter.

National Teacher's College Kabale, established in 1984, offers courses leading to diplomas in secondary teacher training, in-service training for primary school, and nursery teacher training. The college also provides early childhood development (ECD) teacher training and is affiliated with Kyambogo University Faculty of Education.

The college appeals for support to address the critical issue of dilapidated hostels, ensuring a conducive environment for effective teaching and learning.