Parliament has endorsed a proposal to allocate 26.781 billion Ugandan Shillings to the National Information Technology Uganda (NITA-U) for the expansion of ICT services to an additional 700 sites, including schools, hospitals, and local government facilities.
The decision stemmed from the recommendations outlined in the Report of the Committee on Information, Communication, Technology, and National Guidance regarding the ICT Ministerial policy statement and budget estimates for the 2024/2025 financial year.
During the parliamentary session on Friday, April 12, 2024, the Committee’s Vice Chairperson, Hon. Tonny Ayoo, presented the report to the House, which was subsequently adopted under the leadership of Speaker Anita Among.
Members of Parliament expressed concerns regarding the lack of internet connectivity in rural schools, despite the provision of computers, especially in light of the new technology-driven curriculum.
Hon. Peter Okot from Tochi County questioned the rationale behind supplying computers to schools in villages lacking basic amenities such as electricity and internet access.
Similarly, legislators emphasized the importance of internet connectivity for students, particularly those preparing for national examinations, highlighting the potential disadvantage faced by students without access to ICT resources.
Highlighting the broader implications, Hon. Margaret Aleper from Kotido District stressed that improved ICT skills among students could significantly enhance their employability and contribute to local development.
Hon. Patrick Ocan, representing Apac Municipality, raised concerns about the adverse effects of network failures on local governments, noting significant delays in processing payments due to unreliable connectivity.
Speaker Anita Among highlighted the urgent need for improved telecommunication networks, citing personal experiences of poor network coverage in her constituency, which often necessitates unconventional means of communication.
In addition to approving funds for NITA-U, Parliament endorsed the committee’s recommendation to allocate 10.322 billion Ugandan Shillings to the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) to cover its wage bill. However, members urged UBC to enhance its programming to increase revenue generation.
Members also underscored the importance of UBC’s role in supporting the Parish Development Model (PDM) program, stressing the need for an upgraded data management system.
Kampala Central Division MP, Hon. Muhammad Nsereko, called on the ICT Ministry to address social media misuse by promoting responsible online behavior and leveraging the internet for economic empowerment.
In response, ICT Minister Chris Baryomunsi assured Parliament that the ministry is developing strategies to regulate social media misuse and is committed to ensuring equitable access to ICT resources for all schools in Uganda.
