Mr. Taremwa Mephibosheth, a private school owner and former head of the laity in Nakibizzi Archdeaconry, recently called on the Ugandan government to alleviate the heavy tax burden on private educational institutions. Speaking at the annual speech day and graduation ceremony of his school, where 28 nursery learners graduated and pupils showcased their talents in music, dance, and drama, Taremwa stressed that high taxes are pushing private schools to the brink of closure.

Taremwa highlighted the essential role private schools play in providing quality education and meeting the increasing demand for schooling in Uganda. He expressed concern that the current tax regime is making it difficult for private schools to keep tuition affordable and maintain their operations.

“We are appealing to the government to devise a support plan for private schools,” Taremwa said. “The high taxes threaten our ability to operate effectively. Without relief, many schools may have no choice but to close, which would impact students, teachers, and the education sector as a whole.”

In Uganda, private schools have long been key contributors to education, supplementing the efforts of government-funded institutions. However, according to Taremwa, operational costs, including various taxes and fees, have escalated to unsustainable levels, threatening the survival of these schools. He called for the government to consider measures such as tax reductions or financial incentives to support private school owners in sustaining their services.

School owners across the country share Taremwa’s concerns and hope that the government will open a dialogue with them to explore viable solutions. As many private schools continue to struggle, finding a balance between public support and sustainable tax policies could be critical in ensuring these schools can continue to serve Uganda’s communities.

Private Schools Contributing to Employment and Stability

Private schools not only play a vital role in education but also contribute significantly to employment. Mr. Taremwa’s schools, including St. Abel Primary School and St. Mary’s Secondary School in Njeru, collectively employ over 150 teaching and non-teaching staff, directly contributing to economic stability and reducing the risk of crime. However, he notes, the government has not provided financial support or relief measures that acknowledge this contribution.

Pandemic Aftermath and Financial Strain

The COVID-19 pandemic has further strained private schools. With closures lasting up to two years, many institutions incurred substantial losses. Hasadu Kirabira, Chairperson of the National Private Educational Institutions Association (NPEIA), highlighted that school owners who had taken loans before the pandemic faced mounting interest as the government did not enforce policies to shield them from banking exploitation. Others, already financially unstable, were forced to take out additional loans to meet reopening standards, further deepening their debt. Without governmental support, many schools are on the verge of closure or sale.

The association has appealed to the government for support multiple times, but with no response, Kirabira mentioned that they are prepared to take legal action to pressure the government into addressing the sector’s financial issues.

Government’s Response: Financial Constraints and Prioritization

Finance Minister Matiya Kasaija acknowledged the financial challenges facing private schools but explained that the government is also financially constrained. Kasaija suggested that school owners be prepared for the challenges that come with running private institutions, noting that “some business ventures, like establishing a school, are not for the weak.”

Meanwhile, State Minister for Higher Education JC Muyingo recognized the essential role of private schools in extending educational services. However, he insisted that the government’s priority must be its public institutions, which often require significant upgrades and repairs. He emphasized ongoing government commitments, such as establishing a primary school in each parish and a secondary school in each sub-county, as areas needing urgent attention.

Opposition’s Perspective on Educational Policy

Joseph Ssewungu, the Shadow Minister of Education, criticized the government’s lack of support for private education, calling it a sign of a “failed state.” He cited historical precedents, noting that under Milton Obote’s administration, teachers in private schools were included on the government payroll, a recognition of their essential role in the education sector. Ssewungu argued that while immediate financial aid may not be feasible, reducing the tax burden on private schools could provide a practical path forward.

The Path Forward: Collaboration and Tax Reforms

Private school owners remain hopeful that dialogue with the government will yield solutions supporting the sector’s sustainability. They suggest that even modest relief, such as tax reductions or targeted incentives, could alleviate financial pressure and allow schools to continue providing quality education, create jobs, and contribute to Uganda’s economic growth.

As Uganda’s education sector stands at a crossroads, the decision to support private schools or maintain the status quo could shape the future of education and community development across the nation.

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