The Ministry of Education and Sports has authorized international schools to continue Term Two instruction and ongoing examinations, citing alignment with international academic calendars and the need to maintain uninterrupted learning.
The directive was issued by Dr. Cleophus Mugenyi on behalf of the Permanent Secretary through a letter dated January 21, 2026, and applies to all proprietors and principals of international schools operating under foreign examination systems, including Cambridge International Examinations, the International Baccalaureate, the French National Baccalaureate, and the American system. The directive follows consultations and correspondence between school administrators and the Ministry regarding academic continuity.
According to the Ministry, many international schools had already commenced Term Two instruction before the government’s official reopening of schools and other educational institutions scheduled for February 10, 2026. This early start, officials noted, is consistent with internationally recognized academic calendars that differ from Uganda’s national school timetable.
In line with the above considerations, the Ministry formally approved the continuation of teaching activities and the conduct of ongoing examinations, provided schools adhere to their approved curricula, examination schedules, and established quality assurance and regulatory requirements. The decision aims to ensure continuity of learning while safeguarding academic standards.
The Ministry, however, cautioned school proprietors and principals to fully comply with the Education Act, relevant regulations, and all guidelines issued from time to time. Authorities emphasized that compliance is not optional and remains a key condition under which the approval has been granted.
To enforce accountability, the Ministry affirmed that it will continue to monitor and supervise international schools to ensure adherence to national education standards, even as they operate under foreign academic systems. This oversight, officials say, is essential to maintaining quality education across all learning institutions in the country.
