education 2 October 2026 Nile Post
Nabweru Schools Temporarily Closed Over Measles-Rubella Vaccination Dispute
Three primary schools in Nabweru, Wakiso District, have been temporarily shut down following parental resistance to the ongoing measles-rubella vaccination campaign. The Nansana Division Health Department ordered the closures until children can be vaccinated and present certificates. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/375085/nabweru-schools-shut-as-parents-resist-measles-rubella-vaccination-2
Operations at Light Islamic School, Skylight School, and Nabweru Community Nursery and Islamic Primary School have been suspended by the Nansana Division Health Department. This action comes as a result of disagreements between health officials, school administrations, and parents regarding consent for children aged nine months to 59 months to receive the measles-rubella vaccine.
The closures coincide with Uganda’s nationwide measles-rubella vaccination campaign, which runs from October 1 to October 5, 2026. The initiative aims to eliminate immunity gaps, boost the uptake of the second vaccine dose, and combat recent measles outbreaks across the country. Vaccinations are being offered free of charge at health facilities, schools, markets, and community outreach centers.
Health officials, including Health Assistant Fredrick Nabikamba, emphasized the critical importance of the vaccine in protecting children. Nabikamba stated that parents unwilling to have their children vaccinated at school can access the vaccine at any health center without charge. He noted that health workers were unable to proceed with vaccinations at the schools due to a lack of authorization from school authorities, who were themselves facing parental objections.
Some parents have reportedly refused consent due to a lack of awareness about the campaign’s purpose or fears about potential side effects. School head teachers acknowledged supporting the vaccination drive but highlighted the challenge of obtaining parental consent. One suggestion made was for the government to consider administering vaccinations at children’s homes to mitigate such conflicts.
Health authorities have urged parents and guardians to ensure all eligible children receive the vaccine before the campaign concludes on October 5. They also cautioned against interference from political leaders or other authorities, stressing that such actions could jeopardize the campaign’s success and children’s health.