Lira, Uganda | Lira District LC V Chairperson, Richard Cox McOrik Okello, has cautioned political leaders against promoting the idea that Universal Primary and Secondary Education (UPE/USE) is entirely free.
He said such misleading statements create unrealistic expectations among parents and weaken the performance of schools, especially in rural areas.
He stressed that universal education is not synonymous with free education. According to Okello Orik, when parents take part in school affairs, academic performance tends to improve, while a lack of parental involvement often results in poor outcomes.
He urged families to collaborate with Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs) and School Management Committees (SMCs) to establish practical and affordable school support plans.
Referencing the 2008 Education Act, he explained that the government alone cannot fully fund school operations, and community involvement remains critical to the success of the UPE/USE program.
Okello Orik added that politicians must stop confusing the public with populist rhetoric that undermines service delivery and burdens school administrators.
The remarks followed the release of the Topowa Conversations report, presented to Lira District officials by Facilitation for Peace and Development (FAPAD).
The report, compiled in partnership with the Uganda National NGO Forum, reflects findings from a series of community engagements held in February 2025 under the SEPA (Strengthening Citizens Participation and Public Accountability) Project.
Findings from Bar, Agali, Itek sub-counties, and parts of Lira City revealed that many parents have withdrawn essential support like school meals and scholastic materials due to the misconception that UPE and USE are fully funded by the government.
This has left many learners studying on empty stomachs, ultimately affecting classroom performance and motivation.
FAPAD’s Project Officer for Advocacy and Governance, Dikan Grace Patricia, noted that the myth of free education continues to negatively impact children’s wellbeing.
She said many learners are now attending classes under harsh conditions, and urged for renewed community awareness on the actual requirements of UPE and USE.
Ramadan Akula, a senior official from Lira’s Education Department representing the District Education Officer, reinforced that UPE and USE programs are not entirely free.
He emphasized that under the 2008 Education Act, parents are expected to contribute to the functioning of schools through PTAs, stating that government funds are not sufficient to run institutions effectively and that community involvement remains essential.
The report also highlighted numerous infrastructure challenges, including overcrowded classrooms, lack of desks, poor sanitation, and inadequate housing for teachers.
Additionally, concerns were raised about the confusion surrounding the language of instruction.
While kindergartens teach in English, lower primary levels (P1–P3) use local languages, before reverting to English in P4.
This transition, according to stakeholders, has contributed to a decline in literacy and comprehension.
Okello further pointed out growing disparities in scholarship allocations between Lira District and the newly established Lira City.
He argued that children in the rural areas are now losing out on government opportunities, creating a new wave of inequality that must be addressed.
He urged leaders and technocrats alike to remain honest with communities and avoid politicizing education.
He warned that giving people the impression that government handles everything only fuels dependency and hinders progress.
He emphasized the need for collective responsibility, stating that educating a child must begin at home.
FAPAD announced plans to compile regional position papers based on the concerns raised during the community forums.
These documents will guide future advocacy efforts and inform engagements with decision-makers at higher policy levels.
Dikan reiterated that these discussions are not a one-time event. She called on citizens to keep demanding better services while urging leaders to pay attention and act on community needs.
