In a dramatic turn of events, President Yoweri Museveni has directed the abolition of boarding sections in all government schools across Uganda.
This bold decision follows an impassioned complaint by MP Joseph Ssewungu during a recent parliamentary session, where he raised concerns about the escalating costs of education and the deteriorating quality of government schools.
MP Ssewungu accused some government schools of prioritizing profits over the welfare of students, alleging that the high boarding fees imposed on parents were unjustifiable.
The President, in his characteristic decisive tone, responded by ordering the Ministry of Education to ensure all government schools operate as day schools, effective immediately.
“Education is a right, not a privilege for those who can afford exorbitant fees,” he reportedly stated, emphasizing his government’s commitment to providing free and equitable education for all Ugandans.
The directive has sparked mixed reactions nationwide, with some stakeholders applauding the move as a step toward inclusivity, while others have expressed concerns about the logistical challenges it could pose.
Teachers and parents alike are questioning how the sudden change will impact students who live far from schools and depend on boarding facilities for convenience and safety.
The Ministry of Education will release detailed guidelines on implementing the presidential directive in the coming days.
