Church Schools Crack Down on Prom Parties: Bishop Bans Events Amid Concerns

The bishop of Mukono Diocese, Enos Kitto Kagodo, has issued a ban on promenade dances and parties in church schools due to negative reports received about such events.

According to Bishop Kagodo, reports have highlighted instances of “coupling” and drug abuse being prevalent during these promo parties. Some students reportedly indulge in drug use on these occasions as a means to overcome shyness.

Promenade, commonly known as prom, is a formal dance party traditionally organized for high school students. Recently, in Uganda, schools have favored a red carpet event where male participants don formal black ties and suits, while female attendees wear evening gowns. These events typically occur towards the end of the school year.

During a meeting with headteachers from church-owned schools in Mukono, Buikwe, Buvuma, and Kayunga districts, Bishop Kagodo expressed concern over the nature and purpose of promo parties. He criticized the promotion of coupling and other disciplinary issues among students during these events.

Bishop Kagodo emphasized that despite schools’ efforts to enforce rules and regulations against coupling, promo parties often encourage students to disregard these guidelines.

He highlighted the negative impact of these parties on students’ academic careers, citing instances of unplanned pregnancies and disruptions to education caused by such events.

Susan Wamala Sserunkuuma, chairperson of the Mukono Diocesan Headteachers’ Association, acknowledged that promo parties were initially intended as a positive initiative. However, she noted that the involvement of parents, teachers, and students had led to the deterioration of these events.

Wamala also mentioned that promo parties, originally aimed at secondary schools, have now extended to some primary schools, including those catering to Primary Seven candidates.

Recent social media discussions have centered on extravagant displays by students, such as the use of helicopters and expensive cars to arrive at prom venues. This behavior has been condemned by the public and the Ministry of Education.

Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, the State Minister for Higher Education, expressed dismay over such extravagant displays, stating that they send the wrong message to children. Muyingo emphasized the importance of responsible use of resources, regardless of one’s financial means.