education 2 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Ugandan Secondary Schools Face Digital Learning Hurdles: UNICEF Report
A recent UNICEF report reveals that a significant majority of Ugandan secondary schools lack essential infrastructure like electricity, devices, and internet connectivity required for effective digital learning. The study also highlights a critical shortage of trained ICT teachers. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ugandan-secondary-schools-struggling-to-access-digital-learning-report-5482842
A comprehensive assessment of digital readiness in Ugandan secondary schools has unveiled alarming shortcomings, with hundreds of institutions struggling to implement digital learning initiatives due to a lack of fundamental resources. The report, titled ‘From Unplugged to ICT-Ready,’ was conducted by UNICEF and the Ministry of Education.
Findings from the study, which surveyed 3,257 schools nationwide, indicate that a substantial portion of these institutions are ill-equipped for the digital age. Ms. Janet Akao, an Education Officer at UNICEF Uganda, highlighted that 41% of schools are only “semi-plugged,” experiencing unstable electricity, limited devices, and unreliable internet. Alarmingly, another 39% are completely disconnected, lacking internet, devices, and trained personnel.
This leaves only 20% of secondary schools across Uganda fully equipped with electricity, digital devices, and internet connectivity. The assessment also served to inform the ‘Leaders in Teaching Uganda’ program, a five-year initiative aimed at transforming secondary education in over 2,000 schools.
Beyond infrastructure, a significant obstacle is the shortage of qualified ICT teachers. School heads expressed concern that untrained instructors may not be able to effectively impart knowledge, potentially misleading students. Sr. Hellen Lamunu, headmistress of Sacred Heart Girls School in Gulu City, questioned the ability of current staff to deliver accurate information.
Proscovia Aber, Gulu City Inspector of Schools, noted that the Northern Region lags behind the national average in internet connectivity, ICT infrastructure, and electricity access, exacerbating the challenges for teachers who often lack necessary digital tools. Mr. Abubaker Bbuye from the Ministry of Education acknowledged the difficulty in retaining skilled ICT teachers, as many seek better opportunities elsewhere after receiving training.
The Ministry is reportedly awaiting the dissemination of World Bank research on school ICT readiness to further inform strategies. This report underscores the urgent need for investment in infrastructure and teacher training to bridge the digital divide in Uganda’s secondary education sector.
This story was reported by the Daily Monitor.