Museveni Warns Against Charging School Fees in Public Schools

President Yoweri Museveni has condemned charging of fees in government schools, calling it a major cause of school dropouts. He reiterated that Universal Primary Education (UPE) and Universal Secondary Education (USE) programs were designed to be free and urged parents to stop headteachers from imposing extra costs. “The NRM government created UPE and USE to ensure free education, but some headteachers bring back charges, forcing children out of school,” Museveni said during the commissioning of the Teso Zonal Presidential Industrial Hub in Soroti City.

The launched hub in Arapai will equip over 12,000 youths annually with vocational skills under the Presidential Skilling Program. The program aims to empower young people and integrate them into the money economy. Museveni thanked parents for supporting the initiative and urged the graduates to utilize their skills to improve their livelihoods.

He also revealed plans to expand the hub’s training to include market-driven skills like spinning and weaving, ceramics, food processing, and advanced carpentry. “Training must meet market demands. For instance, you should not only tailor clothes but also learn to produce the fabric,” he said.

Vice President Jessica Alupo commended the skilling program, highlighting its role in transforming Uganda’s human resource potential. “From UPE to these hubs, your leadership has delivered tremendous results,” she told the President.

Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Anita Among praised Museveni’s inclusive policies, including the Parish Development Model, Emyooga, and skilling initiatives, which she said are empowering youth and boosting economic growth. “Parliament will prioritize funding for such impactful programs,” she assured.

Soroti RCC and hub committee chair Peter Pex Paak reported that the hub, established in 2023, has trained over 700 youths in fields like welding, hairdressing, and carpentry. He added that many graduates have started businesses or secured employment, aligning with the NRM’s vision to turn youths into manufacturers.

Graduates shared success stories and received financial support from the President to expand their ventures. Oumo Gabriel from Bukedea received UGX 4 million for his welding business, while Frances Gloria Akareut from Katakwi was awarded UGX 5 million to enhance her shoemaking enterprise.

The event attracted high-profile attendees, including State House Comptroller Jane Barekye, MPs, religious leaders, and cultural representatives. The hub’s achievements position it as a cornerstone of youth empowerment and vocational excellence in Uganda’s Teso region.