education 26 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Sees Significant Jump in Literacy Rates, National Report Reveals
A recent Uganda Bureau of Statistics report indicates a substantial increase in the national literacy rate, with rural areas showing the most significant improvement. However, a persistent gender gap and challenges with functional literacy remain. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-s-literacy-rate-rises-by-11-report-5475028
Uganda has witnessed a notable surge in its literacy rate, according to the latest findings by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (Ubos). Between 2021/22 and 2024/25, the literacy rate for individuals aged 10 and above climbed by an impressive 11.7 percentage points, reaching 85.3 percent.
The report, derived from the Uganda Harmonised Integrated Survey, highlights that rural communities have experienced the most significant gains. Literacy in these areas rose by 15.4 percentage points, from 67.8 percent to 83.2 percent, helping to narrow the disparity between rural and urban literacy levels. Urban literacy also saw an increase, moving from 84.5 percent to 91.1 percent during the same period.
While overall progress is evident, a gender gap persists. Male literacy currently stands at 92 percent, compared to 80.2 percent for females. Experts attribute this to ongoing challenges affecting girls’ education, including dropout rates, early pregnancies, and poverty, particularly in rural settings.
Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education and Sports, credited the improvements to sustained government investment in universal education programs and the expansion of school infrastructure, such as the Universal Primary Education (UPE) initiative. She stated that these efforts have enhanced access to basic education, especially for vulnerable and rural populations.
Despite the positive trend in literacy, Ubos cautions that increased school attendance and basic literacy skills do not automatically equate to improved learning outcomes. Many learners still struggle with comprehension and applying their knowledge effectively in daily life. The bureau recommends that literacy data be analyzed alongside other educational indicators to provide a comprehensive understanding of learning achievements.
The survey also noted an increase in school attendance among children aged six to 12, which rose by 9.1 percentage points between 2022 and 2025. This suggests a positive impact of ongoing educational initiatives on school enrolment.
This information is based on findings from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics.