Sam Atul: Government’s School Fees Policy Will Spark Strikes

Lira City Mayor, Sam Atul, has expressed concerns over the government’s decision to transfer the collection of school fees to the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA). He fears that delays in remitting funds back to schools could disrupt operations, particularly affecting essential services.

Atul pointed to the government’s history of delays in disbursing funds to local governments, which often stalls development projects and increases pressure on local leaders. He warned that a similar scenario could unfold in schools.

“Wait for July! After parents paying school fees and the money is sent to Kampala, schools will have to wait for the government to send it back. What happens when there’s no food for students? The headteacher will have no choice but to wait. Just wait and see,” Atul cautioned.

He also criticized Members of Parliament (MPs) for failing to challenge the policy before its approval, accusing them of neglecting their legislative duties.

“That’s why I said those who went to Parliament are just sleeping; they don’t deserve to be there. Just wait and see how students will strike once this policy takes effect,” he warned.

The new policy, set to take effect on July 1, 2025, mandates that all school fees and related charges in government-aided primary and secondary schools be collected through the consolidated fund managed by URA. The government argues that the move is intended to enhance accountability and transparency in school fund management.

The directive applies to all government-aided schools that charge fees beyond the Universal Primary Education (UPE) and Universal Secondary Education (USE) programs. However, critics, including local leaders like Mayor Atul, fear the policy could create bureaucratic delays and negatively impact school operations.