Last week, government announced a directive banning boarding section for primary schools. Olivier Rwamukwaya, the Minister of State in Charge of Primary and Secondary Education, said the decision was taken to ensure that parents inculcate a culture of fostering their own children until they are old enough to be away from daily parental guidance. The move, which will affect about 34 primary schools, has generated mixed reactions from the public, with each advancing some valid arguments.

However, focus should be put on the spirit in which the decision was made. Indeed research shows that parents should spend more time with their children especially during their formative years, and that is exactly what the policy is intended to achieve. But if this is to succeed more dialogue is needed to engage all stakeholders play their part. Like any other well intended policy, it has its challenges that need to be looked into in order to have a smooth implementation of the policy.