“Any school utilizing the National/Public Curriculum that seeks to deviate from the official school calendar must do so with written authorization from the Permanent Secretary,” the statement said.
The Ministry of Education and Sports has reaffirmed that the third term of the 2026 academic year will begin on Monday, September 14, dismissing misinformation circulating on social media about the opening date.
In a statement issued on Thursday, September 3, the ministry said the third term will run for 82 days, ending on Friday, December 4, 2026, for pre-primary, primary and secondary schools following the National/Public Curriculum.
The ministry said the dates are in line with the official 2026 School Calendar communicated by the Permanent Secretary on November 24, 2025, to all education institutions.
The statement, signed by ministry spokesperson Dr. Dennis K. Mugimba, also directed boarding schools in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area—including KCCA, Wakiso, Mpigi and Mukono—to stagger the opening and closing dates for different classes by two to three days.
The measure is intended to reduce road traffic congestion expected during the opening and closing days of the term.
The ministry further warned schools using the National/Public Curriculum against deviating from the official calendar without written authorisation from the Permanent Secretary.
“Any school utilizing the National/Public Curriculum that seeks to deviate from the official school calendar must do so with written authorization from the Permanent Secretary,” the statement said.
The ministry called on responsible authorities to support enforcement and ensure that schools adhere to the official school calendar.
Parents and guardians have therefore been urged to prepare learners for the September 14 reopening, which remains the official start date for the third term.
