The effects of male circumcision [Imbalu] on the academic performance among students in Bushika Sub County, Bududa district. A case study of Bushika Secondary School.
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2026-09-01
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Busitema University
Abstract
The study examined the effects of male circumcision (Imbalu) on the academic performance of students at Bushika Secondary School in Bushika Sub-County, Bududa District. The study specifically sought to establish how male circumcision affects students' academic performance, examine the effect of pre-circumcision dances on school attendance, and assess the impact of Inemba (post-circumcision dance) on students' participation in school activities during the circumcision season. A descriptive research design was employed. The target population consisted of 420 respondents, from whom a sample of 80 respondents was selected, comprising 60 students, 5 teachers, 10 parents and 5 local community leaders. Simple random sampling was used to select students, while purposive sampling was used to select teachers, parents and local leaders. Data were collected using questionnaires and interviews and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, together with qualitative interpretation of interview responses
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The findings indicated that male circumcision and its associated cultural activities may affect students' academic performance mainly through school absenteeism, loss of instructional time, reduced concentration and reduced participation in school activities. The study found that 67.8% of student respondents agreed or strongly agreed that male circumcision affected their academic performance, while 78.6% reported that students tend to miss school during the circumcision period. Furthermore, 73.2% agreed or strongly agreed that pre-circumcision dances affected school attendance, while 69.7% indicated that Inemba affected students' participation in school activities. Cultural dances were identified as one of the major reasons for school absenteeism during the circumcision period
The study concludes that Imbalu and its associated cultural activities have the potential to indirectly affect students' academic performance, particularly through absenteeism and loss of instructional time. However, male circumcision should not be regarded as the sole cause of poor academic performance since other factors, such as parental support, school environment, students' attitudes and health conditions, may also influence academic outcomes. The study recommends greater cooperation among schools, parents, students, cultural leaders and local authorities to ensure that cultural practices are respected while minimizing disruption to students' education. Schools should also provide academic support to students who miss lessons during the circumcision period.
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Watuwa Wilson