In a recent development, private schools in Uganda have agreed to stop the practice of opening and closing their school terms at their own discretion. This decision was made in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Sports to ensure that all schools follow the national calendar.
Mr. Hasadu Kirabira, the national chairperson of the National Private Educational Institutions Association (NPEIA) Uganda, stated that this move comes after meetings and discussions with the Ministry of Education. It has been decided that it is illegal for schools to close before the official date set by the national calendar.
This announcement was made during the 30th-anniversary celebrations and a national prayer dedication event for this year’s Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE), Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE), and Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) candidates.
Mr. Kirabira also pointed out that parents share some responsibility for the early closure of schools, as they sometimes fail to pay school fees on time. He emphasized the importance of meeting financial obligations to ensure the smooth operation of schools.
Despite facing various challenges, including taxes, Mr. Kirabira highlighted the contributions of private schools to the education sector. He urged the government to reconsider taxation and impose a unified tax system on all private schools.
He also mentioned issues with local government taxes that are not regulated by the central government.
Mr. Swaibu Kitezala, the executive director of Jinja Progressive Academy (Jipra), explained that the decision to organize the prayers in Busoga Sub-region, specifically at Jinja Progressive Academy, was made during a similar function at St Lawrence Schools.
While addressing the issue of income tax, Mr. Kitezala expressed concerns about assessing whether private schools are making profits when they often lack essential facilities. He suggested that indirect taxes would be more appropriate for private schools, given that education benefits the entire community.
Mr. Ismail Mulindwa, representing the State Minister for Higher Education, acknowledged the government’s constraints but encouraged schools to continue making their case.
Minister John Chrysostom Muyingo called on NPEIA members to run schools not solely for profit but with competent teachers and functional bodies. He also warned against withholding fees paid by students to Uneb (Uganda National Examinations Board).
Additionally, Mr. Muyingo cautioned against exam malpractice and unauthorized school charges. Any adjustments to charges, according to him, should be justified to the Permanent Secretary.
Mr. Dennis Mbiika, the acting head of sales, channels, and marketing at Letshego Uganda, expressed readiness to provide solutions to schools, directors, teachers, and the entire education ecosystem, including suppliers and parents seeking school fees loans. Schools were encouraged to reach out for support with expansion, infrastructure, and teacher salary loans, among other needs.
