Tayebwa urges parents to prioritise children’s education over marriage costs

What the report says

Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa used a church gathering in western Uganda to encourage families to put more of their limited resources into children’s schooling and practical skills, rather than spending heavily on marriage-related arrangements. Nile Post reports that he made the appeal at Kigarama Archdeaconry in Bitereko Sub-County, Ruhinda North Constituency, where he was hosting former Church of Uganda Archbishop the Most Rev. Luke Orombi.

According to the report, Tayebwa said education and skills now play a central role in shaping people’s opportunities and their ability to contribute to society. He argued that while the benefits may not be immediate, investment in a child’s education is more valuable in the long run for individuals, families and communities than short-term spending on weddings or related costs.

He also said Uganda’s changing social and economic conditions make knowledge and practical skills increasingly important for young people. The message aligned with comments by Archbishop Orombi, who also stressed the importance of educating children during the visit.

The event also included prayers and celebrations for President Yoweri Museveni’s 82nd birthday. In context, the remarks reflect a broader public debate in Uganda about education, skills development and household spending priorities, especially in communities where financial resources are limited.