education 1 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
School Director Arrested for Alleged Holiday Teaching and Assault in Kwania
Police in Kwania District have arrested a school director following a parent's accusation of assault during a confrontation over holiday teaching. This incident occurs amid a broader crackdown on unauthorized academic activities during school breaks in the Apac and Oyam regions. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kwania-school-boss-held-amid-holiday-teaching-crackdown-in-apac-oyam-5579180
A school director in Kwania District faces charges after allegedly assaulting a parent who came to collect his children, who were reportedly being held for holiday studies. The parent, Mr. Solomon Okok, claims he was physically assaulted in front of his children at the school premises on August 28, 2026, after being denied immediate access to his Primary Four and Six pupils.
According to Mr. Okok, the school bursar initially refused to release the children, prompting the director’s intervention. The director allegedly accused Mr. Okok of reporting the school for conducting holiday teaching, leading to the physical altercation. Mr. Okok urged government intervention, citing that many schools allegedly hold children during holidays, sometimes demanding fees for their release, which goes against Ministry of Education directives.
Police confirmed the arrest, with spokesperson Superintendent of Police Patrick Jimmy Okema stating that investigations are ongoing. While acknowledging a counter-claim that Mr. Okok may have been intoxicated, Okema emphasized that holding students during holidays violates official guidelines meant for rest and family bonding.
In a related development, authorities in Oyam District arrested the head teacher of Aramita Primary School and other staff, along with officials from Bethel Nursery and Primary School, on August 31, 2026, for similar alleged violations of holiday teaching bans. The arrests followed a raid that found 26 learners attending lessons at Aramita Primary School.
These actions are part of a wider enforcement drive in the Apac and Oyam regions aimed at ensuring compliance with the official school calendar and protecting students from unauthorized educational activities. Kwania’s acting District Education Officer, Mr. Andrew Omunu, cautioned school leaders against such practices and encouraged parents to report any violations they observe.