Three Headteachers Arrested in Alebtong for Alleged Pupil Enrolment Fraud

Police in Alebtong District have detained three primary school headteachers on suspicion of defrauding the government through inflated pupil enrolment figures. The investigation was sparked by a recent headcount conducted during the third term of 2026, which revealed significant discrepancies between the numbers officially recorded in the Education Management Information System (EMIS) and the actual student populations present at the schools.

Sources indicate that three specific schools are under scrutiny: Amononeno Primary School in Abako Sub-county, Owalo Primary School in Amugu Sub-county, and Amugu Quran Primary School, also located in Amugu.

At Amononeno Primary School, EMIS records showed 1,531 pupils, but the physical count only identified 1,000 students. Similarly, Amugu Quran Primary School reported 371 registered learners, with only 174 found to be physically attending. Amugu Primary School had 879 pupils present against a registered total of 1,015.

The matter has been reported to Alebtong Police Station, where the suspects are currently being held. North Kyoga Region Police spokesperson, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, confirmed that investigations are active. He emphasized the seriousness of inflating enrolment figures, warning that such actions can lead to the misappropriation of public funds and negatively impact the delivery of educational services.

“The alleged inflation of learner enrolment figures is a matter of serious concern, particularly given the potential implications for the allocation and utilisation of government resources intended to support school operations and service delivery,” Mr Okema stated. He highlighted that accurate enrolment data is crucial as government funding for schools is partly determined by these figures, directly affecting resource allocation for student support and school operations.

This investigation underscores the importance of maintaining accurate records in educational institutions to ensure equitable distribution of resources and efficient service delivery. All individuals found to be involved in fraudulent activities will face appropriate legal action. https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/three-alebtong-headteachers-held-over-alleged-pupil-enrolment-fraud-police-say-5638804