Uganda’s Ministry of Education and Sports has issued new regulations to curb excessive spending and reinforce discipline in schools.
Effective immediately, the directive applies to all public and private institutions starting from the second term. In a circular dated May 16, 2025, and signed by Permanent Secretary Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda, schools are prohibited from extravagant displays such as hiring luxury vehicles, helicopters, and excessive spending on events like prom parties and student elections.
The guidelines ban the use of rented vehicles, motorcycles, or helicopters for student-related activities on school premises. Entertainment and co-curricular events must now be school-organized and structured to prevent financial strain on parents.
To promote moral discipline, the ministry has also outlawed indecent dressing, including skin-tight clothing, miniskirts, and see-through outfits. Additionally, students are prohibited from forming romantic pairs or engaging in intimate behavior during school functions.
Entertainment activities must take place only during daylight hours and end by 6:00 p.m., with no events permitted during school holidays. The use of alcohol, cigarettes, and illegal substances is strictly forbidden at all school functions.
All films, music, and theatrical performances must receive approval from the National Media Council, Uganda Communications Commission, and the Ministry of Education to ensure they are suitable for students.
The directive also enforces stricter visitation policies, allowing only one visitation day per term, scheduled between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Access will be restricted to individuals with official visitation cards.
Furthermore, parents and relatives are prohibited from bringing cooked meals or fast food onto school premises or preparing food on-site. Camping and family gatherings within school compounds are no longer permitted.
Student movement during school trips must now conclude by 6:00 p.m., with all stopovers and accommodations pre-planned and communicated in advance. Kindergarten pupils are no longer allowed to participate in school trips, while students in Primary 1 to 3 may only join under exceptional circumstances and with close supervision.
International trips require Ministry approval and must include at least one teacher and two parents. Applications must outline clear objectives, itineraries, target participants, travel dates, and a detailed cost breakdown.
To ensure fairness in student elections, the Ministry has imposed strict regulations. Learners are prohibited from using commercial campaign materials like T-shirts, caps, and posters. They are also barred from hiring vehicles, music bands, or involving parents and political figures in their campaigns.
Candidates are forbidden from offering food, gifts, or any incentives to voters.
Violations of these rules will result in immediate disqualification and disciplinary action.
