By Our Reporter 

Soroti District - Students of Dakabela Comprehensive Secondary School in Arapai Sub-county, Soroti District, have pledged to excel in their forthcoming national examinations in a bid to challenge negative perceptions surrounding rural education.

The bold commitment was made during a career guidance session held at the school, where Soroti District Councilor for Tubur Sub-county, Bob Owiny, addressed the learners and called on communities to rally behind students in village schools.

Owiny, who has expressed interest in contesting for the LC5 chairperson seat, criticized the long-standing belief held by some community members that learners from rural schools cannot match the performance of their urban counterparts.

"Studying in a village school is not a weakness. Education is about focus and determination, not location," Owiny said, urging students to ignore critics and concentrate on their academic journey.

Citing recent Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) results, the councilor emphasized that rural schools have proven capable of producing excellent results, and encouraged parents to trust and support nearby institutions for both safety and affordability.

David Eragu, the headteacher of Dakabela Comprehensive SS, defended the integrity of rural schools, describing them as centers of discipline, quality instruction, and growing success.

"Our students are well-taught and well-prepared. These village schools are producing top performers, and we are confident in our ability to compete at all levels," Eragu said.

Motivated by the leaders’ words, several students expressed their commitment to academic excellence. Pauline Akwii, a Senior Four student, declared that their performance in upcoming exams would serve as proof that rural learners can thrive just like those in urban areas.

"We want to show the nation that greatness can come from the village. We are ready to silence the critics through our results," Akwii said.

Francis Orisa, the Soroti District Youth Chairperson, encouraged students to remain focused, noting that the difference between success and failure lies in discipline and effort, not in geography.

Emmanuel Ecaru, Secretary for Health and Education in Arapai Sub-county, commended Councilor Owiny for his encouraging words and urged learners to listen to guidance from leaders who believe in their potential.

The session ended on a high note, with renewed energy among the learners, who promised to use their performance as a weapon to defy the odds and reshape how village education is viewed in the region.