Government Cracks Down on Unauthorised Boarding Schools to Protect Students

The Ministry of Education and Sports has vowed to take firm action against boarding schools operating across the country without official approval. The move comes amid growing concerns regarding the quality, safety, and infrastructure of boarding facilities in educational institutions.

During a plenary sitting, the Minister of State for Education (Sports), Hon. Peter Ogwang, presented a comprehensive statement outlining the strict requirements necessary for running a boarding section. He stressed that facilities must be properly authorised, adequately resourced, and subjected to regular inspections to guarantee the well-being of learners.

According to the minister, student supervision must remain paramount, with clear procedures established to report any form of abuse. Furthermore, arrangements regarding food, nutrition, hygiene, maintenance, and financing must meet high standards. Schools found operating unlawfully or placing students at risk will face immediate disciplinary measures.

Addressing Universal Primary and Secondary Education (UPE and USE) institutions, Ogwang noted that boarding arrangements are voluntary and must strictly support disadvantaged children rather than hinder free basic education. Administrators were cautioned against diverting funds to run unauthorised boarding sections.

Members of Parliament largely welcomed the intervention. Kilak South County MP, Hon. Gilbert Olanya, emphasized the importance of equipping schools with proper fire control measures to prevent tragedies. Meanwhile, Hon. Beatrice Wembabazi urged the ministry to maintain consistent supervision to safeguard students.

Lawmakers representing special interest groups also weighed in. Hon. Laura Kanushu called for inclusive infrastructure, insisting that boarding facilities must feature ramps and accessible toilets for children with disabilities. Other legislators advised the ministry to account for unique geographical challenges faced by schools in hard-to-reach areas when enforcing the new guidelines.

Read the full details on the Parliament of Uganda.