Ugandan lawmakers are urging the government to increase funding for the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to improve ICT infrastructure and expand digital access in schools.
The call comes amid growing concerns over the scarcity of computers, inadequate internet connectivity, and poor infrastructure, which have hindered effective ICT education across the country.
The Rural Communications Development Fund (RCDF), implemented by UCC, oversaw the Uganda Communications Universal Service and Access Fund (UCUSAF) from 2016 to 2023 to promote ICT adoption through broadband access and connectivity initiatives.
Despite these efforts, a recent report by the Committee on ICT and National Guidance revealed significant gaps in ICT resources, particularly in secondary schools. According to the report, the shortage of computers has led to overcrowded computer labs and limited practical engagement for students. The high student-to-computer ratio continues to strain educators, making computer-based lessons difficult and diminishing the quality of ICT education. For example: Uganda Military College has 60 computers for 200 students and Pilkington College has only 40 computers for 1,300 students.
Committee Chairperson Hon. Tonny Ayoo noted that even schools that received computers through the UCUSAF program struggle with insufficient and unreliable internet connectivity, making it difficult to access digital learning materials, online education platforms, and communication tools.
“ The government, through UCC, should ensure broadband expansion to all secondary schools. “This will relieve schools from the financial burden of privately sourcing internet services,” Ayoo urged.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa called on the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance to collaborate with the Ministry of Finance to allocate more resources toward improving Uganda’s broadband infrastructure. He revealed that of the UGX 110 billion earmarked for UCC in 2024, only UGX 55 billion was disbursed, making it difficult for UCC to fulfill its mandate.
The primary objective of this fund was to enhance communication services in rural areas. “However, when funds are redirected to the consolidated fund, tracking and monitoring their usage becomes difficult,” Tayebwa remarked.
Several legislators stressed the need for adequate facilities and reliable power to support ICT education. Hon. Anthony Esenu (NRM, Kapelebyong County) called for the construction of fully equipped computer laboratories in beneficiary schools, while Hon. Alfred Edakasi (NRM, Kaberamaido County) urged the government to expand electricity distribution to rural areas.
Many rural schools struggle with ICT accessibility due to erratic power supply, with electricity available only once a week. “Teachers are grappling with this challenge, and the expense of running generators—if the schools even have them—remains a significant hurdle,” Edakasi explained.
Hon. Abed Bwanika (NUP, Kimaanya-Kabonera Division) stressed the need for dedicated power lines to institutions such as schools and hospitals to ensure uninterrupted access to essential services.
Hon. Laura Kanushu (NRM, PWD Representative) called for greater inclusivity in ICT education, particularly for students with special needs. She highlighted the importance of JAWS software, which assists visually impaired learners, and urged the government to ensure that every batch of computers delivered to schools includes at least one device equipped with this essential software.
“There is software called JAWS that visually impaired learners can effectively utilize, but I doubt these computers are equipped with it. “I urge the government to ensure that each batch of computers sent to schools includes at least one device with this software, as it is a fundamental right,” Kanushu stated.
In response, Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Chris Baryomunsi acknowledged the challenges and noted that schools without access to the national power grid but equipped with computers through the fund had received solar energy support.
“If there are schools with computers but no electricity, notify us [ICT Ministry] so we can collaborate with the Ministry of Energy to extend power supply or, as an interim measure, provide solar energy support,” Baryomunsi said.
He further announced that two loans secured from the World Bank and China EXIM Bank would facilitate the expansion of national backbone infrastructure over the next two years, significantly improving broadband access and ICT capabilities across Uganda.
The call for increased UCC funding underscores the urgent need to bridge the digital divide in Uganda’s education sector. Expanding ICT infrastructure, ensuring reliable internet connectivity, and investing in inclusive technologies will empower students with digital skills, enhance learning outcomes and prepare Uganda’s youth for the future job market.
With proper funding and implementation, Uganda can modernize its education system, ensuring that no student is left behind in this digital era.