School fees represent a significant financial burden for many Ugandan parents, often competing with essential household expenses. With the third term underway, families are racing to settle outstanding fees before schools close in December. MTN Mobile Money (MoMo) is addressing this challenge by enabling parents to pay school fees directly through their phones, eliminating the need for cash transactions or in-person visits. John Kisakye, a parent using the service, highlighted the convenience: 'With MoMo, I can make payments immediately without rearranging my day.' This shift reduces risks associated with carrying cash and minimizes paperwork, as digital records replace physical deposit slips. Jones Nekesa, another user, praised the streamlined process: 'I no longer need to carry a bank slip to school; the payment is visible on my phone and the school can verify it.'
The campaign, titled 'Win School Fees for a Year,' offers up to Shs 6 million in prizes for eligible parents, alongside financing options for up to four children. MTN MoMo Uganda’s Chief Commercial Officer, Keith Tukei, emphasized the initiative’s dual purpose: 'Education is a priority for families, and we aim to make fee management easier while creating opportunities for both households and schools.' The platform also partners with supermarkets like Capital Shoppers and Shopwise, providing 20% discounts on back-to-school purchases. Schools accepting MoMo payments are eligible for additional incentives, including a school van. MTN MoMo has already awarded two vans, with the second going to Jinja School of Nursing & Midwifery following the first to Lucky Kids Academy earlier this year.
Parents can access the service via the MoMo App or by dialling 16580#, with transaction tracking features to ensure transparency. Jemima Kariuki, Chief Product Officer at MTN MoMo Uganda, noted, 'The platform allows families to manage payments conveniently and maintain clear records.' The initiative aligns with broader efforts to digitize financial services in Uganda, where mobile money adoption has grown rapidly. By reducing reliance on cash, MoMo not only enhances security but also supports financial inclusion, particularly for low-income households struggling with traditional banking systems.
The expansion of MoMo’s school fee services reflects a growing trend in leveraging technology to address educational challenges. As more parents adopt digital payments, the system’s impact extends beyond individual convenience, influencing school operations and community infrastructure. With ongoing campaigns and partnerships, MTN MoMo aims to solidify its role in making education more accessible and manageable for Ugandan families. The initiative underscores the potential of mobile technology to transform everyday financial responsibilities into opportunities for stability and growth.