The Ministry of Education and Sports has issued new guidelines aimed at curbing extravagance and restoring discipline in schools.
The directive, effective immediately, prohibits flashy displays such as hired luxury vehicles, helicopters, and excessive spending during school functions like prom parties and student elections.
Recently, there has been a trend of schools holding extravagant proms, with students paying as much as Shs20 million to be crowned ‘Governors’ or ‘Presidents’ at prom parties.
With the new guidelines, such trends may no longer continue. According to a circular dated May 16, 2025, addressed to all school heads and local government authorities, Permanent Secretary Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda ordered that all public and private institutions must comply with the regulations starting from the second term.
Schools must now prohibit the use of hired vehicles, motorcycles, or helicopters on school premises for student events. All entertainment and co-curricular activities must be planned by the school administration and must not impose financial pressure on parents.
The guidelines also impose strict regulations on entertainment. Indecent dressing, such as skin-tight clothes, miniskirts, and transparent attire, is banned.
Students are not allowed to pair up as couples or imitate romantic relationships during school events. All entertainment activities must occur during daylight hours and conclude by 6:00 p.m.
Additionally, entertainment is not allowed during school holidays. The consumption of alcohol, smoking, and the use of drugs are strictly prohibited at school events.
Films, music, and dramas shown at school must be pre-approved by the National Media Council, the Uganda Communications Commission, and the Ministry of Education. Only age-appropriate content will be permitted.
Visitation day regulations have also been tightened. Each school is limited to one visitation day per term, between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Only visitors with official visitation cards will be allowed entry.
Parents and relatives are no longer allowed to bring cooked or fast food to the school or to prepare food on school grounds. The ministry has also banned camping or hosting parties on school premises by large family groups.
Regarding school trips and tours, learners’ movements must end by 6:00 p.m., with all stopovers and sleepovers clearly identified in advance.
Children in kindergarten are not permitted to go on school trips. Those in Primary 1 to 3 may participate in tours only under special circumstances and with close supervision.
Foreign school trips must be approved by the Ministry of Education and must include at least one teacher and two parents. Applications for such trips must detail the objectives, dates, itinerary, target participants, and costs to be covered by parents or guardians.
The ministry has also introduced strict controls on student elections. Learners are prohibited from using commercially produced campaign materials such as T-shirts, caps, and posters.
The hiring of vehicles, music bands, or the involvement of any external individuals—including parents and political parties—is strictly forbidden. Candidates are not allowed to offer voters any form of inducement, including food or gifts. Any student found violating these rules will be immediately disqualified and face disciplinary action.
Dr. Turyagyenda stated that these guidelines are intended to ensure that education remains focused on learning, character building, and equitable access, free from distractions caused by luxury or undue influence.
