Kamuli student dies by suicide after alleged school expulsion over mobile phone

[Archival Sense]

Residents of Nabirumba Parish in Nabwigulu Sub-county, Kamuli District, are mourning the death of a 17-year-old Senior Three student who allegedly took his own life after being expelled from school for possessing a mobile phone.

The deceased, identified as Amuza Basoome, a student at Irundu Secondary School in Buyende District, was found dead behind his father's home in Nabirumba Parish.

According to local leaders, Basoome had reportedly been sent away from school after he was found with a phone, an incident that allegedly triggered distress before his death.

Nabwigulu Sub-county LCIII chairperson George Bogere said Basoome returned home from school and was questioned by his father, Mr Abasa Dhikusooka, about where he had obtained the phone, but he reportedly refused to explain.

The father later instructed him to work in the family garden as a disciplinary measure.

The following morning, Bogere said, the teenager was found dead, hanging from a tree behind the family residence.

Police retrieved the body and later handed it over to the family for burial arrangements as investigations continue.

Former Nabwigulu Sub-county district councillor Mberenge Kitimbo described the incident as heartbreaking, saying the loss of a young life over what appeared to be a minor disciplinary issue was deeply disturbing.

"It is truly disheartening that a young man has lost his life over what appears to have been a minor issue. The focus should be on discipline and providing proper guidance to children," Kitimbo said.

The incident has raised renewed concerns about the emotional wellbeing of students and the need for stronger communication between parents, schools and learners.

Bogere revealed that the death is the second reported suicide case in the area within two weeks, urging community and religious leaders to intensify efforts to support young people facing emotional challenges.

He encouraged individuals experiencing depression or distress to seek help from family members, friends, religious leaders or other trusted people rather than suffering in silence.

Meanwhile, Kamuli District chairperson of private school owners, George Byantuyo, described the incident as a setback for the education sector and called for greater adherence to Ministry of Education guidelines prohibiting mobile phone use in schools.

He also urged parents to build stronger relationships with their children, saying open communication could help identify and address challenges before they escalate.

"The boy had an opportunity to explain to his parents where he got the phone, but he chose not to. This shows the importance of parents maintaining open communication with their children," Byantuyo said.

Busoga North police spokesperson Samson Lubega said the case highlights the need for improved counselling and guidance services in both schools and homes.

He urged institutions and families to provide stronger support systems for students, saying many young people struggle with challenges without seeking help.


Daily Monitor reports.