education 17 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Head teachers plea for government aid amid unpaid staff crisis in USE schools
Head teachers in Uganda are facing significant financial strain due to a directive halting parent contributions, leading to unpaid staff and concerns about school operations. They are appealing to the government for intervention as Universal Secondary Education (USE) funds prove insufficient. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/head-teachers-appeal-to-govt-as-unpaid-staff-pile-up-in-use-schools-5561122
Head teachers of government-aided schools across Uganda are facing severe financial distress following a directive from Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara to stop collecting school dues from parents. This has resulted in a growing number of unpaid staff members and a depletion of essential operational funds.
Several schools have already been forced to close for the second term ahead of schedule. The lack of funds impacts the ability to pay staff not on the government payroll and to provide necessities for boarding students.
Christopher Isabirye, head teacher of St Stephen Bugiri Secondary School, highlighted that 43 staff members are awaiting their July salaries. “We request government intervention because we do not know where to get the money to clear the debts after parents stopped paying school dues,” he stated.
Isabirye explained that Universal Secondary Education (USE) funds alone are insufficient to cover all school expenses. Parents had previously agreed to contribute financially to meet these additional needs.
Agrey Mayende, head teacher of Busia Secondary School, echoed these concerns, noting that out of over 120 staff members, only 47 are government-paid. “I would like to request Cabinet and the Parliament of Uganda to look into our concerns; otherwise, they may find us in prison because of the debts we have accumulated,” he warned.
Mayende suggested the government should establish a clear fee structure for parents. Meanwhile, some parents, like Zidina Naziwa, expressed gratitude for the minister’s directive, citing instances of administrators imposing excessive charges. However, others, such as Awali Mugoya Ogonzaki, chairperson of the PTA at St Stephen Bugiri Secondary School, believe the minister’s approach needs revision and consultation with stakeholders.
District education officials acknowledge the financial limitations, urging head teachers to manage available resources while the government seeks solutions. Bugiri District plans to hold a council meeting to address the issue and engage higher authorities.