The Uganda National Students’ Association (UNSA) has condemned the government’s ban on school fees in government-aided schools, alleging the policy has exacerbated hunger among students, worsened teacher shortages, and disrupted education. Speaking on behalf of the association, UNSA Speaker Tendo Henry Martin criticized the abrupt implementation of the measure, which halted fee payments in schools that previously relied on parental contributions for meals, teacher hiring, and learning materials. 'Students are hungry, even teachers are hungry. Hon. Balaam stopped the payment of school fees but did not bring food or teachers,' Martin said, referencing Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi’s campaign against so-called illegal fees in schools.
The government’s initiative, aimed at curbing unauthorized charges in government-aided institutions, has instead created operational challenges for schools. UNSA reported that some institutions have scaled back to day-school models due to resource constraints, while others face difficulties retaining staff. Martin highlighted that the state’s capitation grant of Shs60,000 per student per term at O-Level is insufficient for survival, stating, 'This is unfair.' The association also noted that teacher shortages have worsened, as some schools depended on Parent-Teacher Association-hired educators, further straining educational quality.
UNSA has repeatedly sought dialogue with Minister Balaam and the Ministry of Education and Sports, but claims no responses have been received. On September 20, the association issued a statement demanding the reinstatement of lunch fees, increased teacher recruitment, and an urgent meeting with stakeholders. It also called on President Yoweri Museveni to intervene, arguing the policy disproportionately affects vulnerable learners. The group warned that hunger is impairing student focus, with some abandoning afternoon classes to seek food, exacerbating academic setbacks.
The controversy underscores broader tensions between government efforts to regulate school financing and the practical needs of schools and students. While the administration frames its actions as protecting parents from exploitative fees, critics argue the lack of alternative support mechanisms has deepened crises in education. As UNSA continues to push for solutions, the situation highlights the delicate balance between fiscal oversight and ensuring access to basic necessities for Uganda’s youth.