The meeting will focus on reviewing the implementation of the UPE programme, which was introduced in 1997 to provide free access to primary education for all school-age children in Uganda.
A high-level meeting aimed at assessing the progress and challenges of Uganda’s Universal Primary Education (UPE) programme has been scheduled for Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala.
According to an official communication issued on behalf of the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Sports, all headteachers of public primary schools in selected districts and municipalities have been invited to attend the engagement with the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports.
The invitation has been extended to education leaders from Kira, Makindye-Sabagabo, Entebbe, Mukono, Nansana, and Wakiso District, as well as officials from the Kampala Capital City Authority.
No Competence-Based Education, No Students: Govt Sets Tough Terms for Universities
The meeting will focus on reviewing the implementation of the UPE programme, which was introduced in 1997 to provide free access to primary education for all school-age children in Uganda.
Since its inception, UPE has significantly boosted enrolment in public primary schools, particularly among children from disadvantaged and rural communities. However, stakeholders say the increase in access has not been matched with adequate resources to ensure quality education.
Officials note that the meeting will provide a platform to evaluate achievements so far, including gains in literacy and numeracy, while also addressing persistent challenges affecting learning outcomes.
Among the key issues expected to be discussed are overcrowded classrooms, inadequate infrastructure, and teacher shortages—factors that continue to strain the system.
“The meeting will provide an opportunity to review progress and success stories, discuss key challenges, and agree on practical measures to strengthen the programme,” the communication stated.
Education stakeholders are expected to propose actionable solutions aimed at improving both access and quality, in line with the government’s vision of “Quality Education and Sports for All.”
The engagement is also expected to create a rare platform for headteachers to directly interact with national leadership and share on-the-ground experiences from their respective schools.
The outcome of the meeting is likely to shape future policy direction and strengthen efforts toward achieving universal, equitable, and quality basic education in Uganda.
