Bishop Wakula asks government to harmonise ministries on free education model

What the report says

Bishop of Central Busoga Diocese, Rt Rev Patrick Wakula, has urged the Ugandan government to better align the Ministries of Finance, Education and Local Government to create a more workable free education model. Speaking at Iganga Secondary School in eastern Uganda, where he was the chief guest at a send-off and dedication event for 384 Senior Four and 168 Senior Six candidates, he said the current system leaves many schools unable to meet basic needs.

According to Nile Post, Wakula argued that any public education model should cover more than tuition alone. He pointed to the need for support with teacher salaries, capitation grants, feeding, learning materials, accommodation and wider learner welfare. He said families, especially those in low-income households, still face major costs even under free education policies, and schools continue to struggle with limited funding.

His comments add to the long-running public debate in Uganda over Universal Primary Education and Universal Secondary Education, particularly concerns about whether government grants are enough for schools to function well. As reported by Nile Post, Wakula also said the system cannot be fully called free education while some teachers are still outside the government payroll. He used the occasion to encourage candidates to remain disciplined and confident ahead of final examinations, while the school headmistress asked parents to continue supporting learners spiritually and materially.