education 13 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Ugandan Students Share Views on Ideal Pocket Money Amounts for School Terms
Secondary school students from various Ugandan schools propose pocket money ranging from Shs15,000 to Shs150,000 per term, depending on whether they board or attend day school. Many emphasize moderation to maintain focus on studies and avoid spoiling children. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/education/here-s-how-much-we-need-for-our-pocket-money-students-5422234
Ugandan secondary students have varied opinions on how much pocket money they need for a school term, highlighting differences between boarding and day schools.
Boarding students often suggest Shs30,000 to Shs100,000 per term suffices for personal needs like snacks, arguing excess cash distracts from academics. For instance, Everline Aisu from Priscilla Comp Girls SS in Katakwi believes Shs30,000 is enough to cover essentials without losing concentration.
Day scholars recommend smaller daily amounts, such as Shs2,000 for break-time snacks or transport. Faith Chloe Nakitto from Makerere College School notes Shs100,000 totals adequately for a term if spent wisely on snacks alone.
Some advocate higher figures like Shs150,000 for girls in boarding, citing hostel canteen costs, while others like Joan Amagoro propose Shs15,000 as non-burdensome for parents. Students from St Stephen SS in Katakwi frequently mention Shs50,000 as a balanced, affordable option.
Financial discipline and family background also factor in, with calls for amounts that curb vices like stealing or dropping out. Hostel dwellers may need more until visitation day, per Emmanuel Alex Lukwago.