The Ministry of Education and Sports has issued sweeping new guidelines to curb extravagant spending and moral indiscipline in Uganda’s schools.
The directive, which takes effect immediately in all public and private institutions starting from the second term, seeks to “de-commercialize” school culture, especially during social functions such as prom and voting.
Outlined in a circular dated May 16, 2025, and signed by Permanent Secretary Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda, the guidelines prohibit luxury displays such as hiring helicopters, luxury vehicles, and motorcycles for events like prom parties and student elections.
“These practices are putting unnecessary financial pressure on parents and eroding the values of modesty and discipline we expect from our learners,” the circular reads.
The Ministry says this reform is rooted in its broader aim to “de-commercialize” school life, ensuring schools remain spaces for learning, character development, and inclusive participation.
What Prompted the Crackdown?
The Ministry cited growing concern that school functions have become platforms for lavish spending and social competition, placing undue pressure on parents and turning students’ focus away from academic and moral development.
The Ministry also noted rising complaints from school administrators and guardians, particularly about skyrocketing costs associated with non-essential events like proms and campaign launches, often financed indirectly through hidden school fees and societal pressures.
What the New Guidelines Prohibit
The circular outlines several specific bans and restrictions, with immediate effect for both public and private schools.
Prohibited Activities:
- Hiring luxury vehicles, helicopters, or motorcycles for student events.
- Extravagant spending on prom parties or student campaign activities
- Alcohol, cigarettes, and drug use during school events
- Indecent dressing, including skin-tight outfits, miniskirts, and transparent clothing
- Romantic behavior or pairing up during school events
- Camping or family gatherings within school premises
“The goal is to reduce social pressure, foster equality, and refocus students on education rather than appearances,” the circular emphasizes.
Entertainment, Media, and Visitation Reforms
The directive also imposes tighter controls on school entertainment and visitation policies:
For Entertainment:
- Activities must be held only during daylight hours.
- Events must end by 6:00 p.m.
- Entertainment is suspended during school holidays.
- All films, music, and drama must be pre-approved by the National Media Council, Uganda Communications Commission, and the Ministry of Education.
For Visitation:
- Schools are limited to one visitation day per term.
- Visits are allowed only from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Entry is restricted to visitors with official visitation cards.
- Bringing cooked meals or fast food, or preparing food on school grounds is not allowed.
School Trips Face New Rules
The policy introduces stricter measures for school excursions, citing student safety and cost containment:
- All travel must conclude by 6:00 p.m.
- Stopovers and accommodation plans must be submitted in advance.
- Kindergarten pupils are not allowed to participate in trips.
- Primary 1–3 students may attend only under exceptional circumstances and with close supervision.
The Ministry argues that these guidelines are not simply about cost-cutting but about redefining school culture in Uganda.
By discouraging elitist and socially divisive behaviors, officials believe schools will become more inclusive and purpose-driven.
“This is about preserving the integrity of our education system. When schools become sites of competition in wealth and image, we undermine what education is truly for,” said an official who requested anonymity.
Although some schools and parents may see the reforms as restrictive or overly conservative, the Ministry insists that the long-term social and educational benefits outweigh the discomfort of change.
The Ministry’s move to de-commercialize school life signals a deeper institutional concern: that education is being overshadowed by material display and peer pressure.
By re-centering the focus on learning, discipline, and inclusivity, the new anti-extravagance guidelines aim to restore values-based education—even if that means challenging long-held social habits in Uganda’s school communities.