The implementation of Universal Primary Education in Uganda

Abstract

Since independence in 1962, the education system in Uganda has comprised four levels under the control of the Ministry of Education and Sports, namely, the pre-school, primary education, post-primary education and higher education. In 1986, the National Resistance Movement formed a series of commissions to investigate the functioning of the Ministry of Education and Sports. Subsequently, the Education Policy Review Commission was established and made the recommendation to universalise primary education. In 1996, the President announced free education for all with the main components including the provision of free education for a maximum of four children per family, and the removal of school fees in primary schools from grades one to seven. The main goal was to provide for the minimum necessary facilities and resources to enable all Ugandan children of school-going age to enter and remain in school until the primary cycle is completed. However, the implementation of Universal Primary Education in Uganda has been met with various challenges. The current planning and organising framework does not support its implementation with communication and coordination challenges cited as most problematic. This study focuses on proposing a planning and organising framework that will address the issues regarding policy implementation, coordination and communication. Specifically, the study will focus on: <ul> a) describing the internal and external environment within which Universal Primary Education in Uganda is implemented; b) exploring the planning and organising challenges hindering the implementation of Universal Primary Education in Uganda; and c) proposing a comprehensive planning and organising framework to support the implementation of Universal Primary Education in Uganda. </ul> The study employs a qualitative approach and data is collected through the use of an extensive literature review supported by qualitative interviewing of key role-players employed by the Ministry of Education and Sports in Uganda. International best practices are used to determine the planning and organising requirements for successful implementation. The study proposes the establishment of a Department of Primary Education responsible for ensuring the appropriate involvement of all role-players in the planning and organising functions. The establishment of such a department will ensure that monitoring and evaluation, accountability of finances and effective communication are achieved. By placing emphasis on the planning and organising requirements for implementation, the aim of providing free education to all Ugandan children might be achieved. Copyright