KAMPALA, Uganda — The Ministry of Education and Sports has announced that the start of the new school term will be postponed to Tuesday, February 10, 2026, citing ongoing general elections and the need to ensure the safety of learners.
The term had initially been scheduled to begin on February 2, but officials said the delay is necessary to allow schools to operate safely in the current politically charged environment.
“The ministry hereby informs you that due to the general elections and to ensure safety of all learners, all schools and education institutions across the country are directed to reopen on Tuesday 10th, 2026,” reads part of a circular signed by Permanent Secretary Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda.
The directive applies to all educational institutions, both private and public, from pre-primary to universities, including international schools. This means that even universities which had already welcomed students must now resume classes on the revised date.
Vivid Voice News confirmed the authenticity of the circular with Dr. Denis Mugimba, the ministry’s spokesperson. In the days leading up to the elections, a similar document circulated online, which the ministry dismissed as fake.
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The postponement follows a recent trend in Uganda, with Makerere University delaying its graduation ceremony, also citing election-related safety concerns.
The decision comes as Uganda continues to count and verify votes from the January 15 general elections, a period marked by heightened security, increased political activity, and ongoing tension across the country.
Education officials said the move is aimed at safeguarding learners from potential unrest and ensuring that academic schedules are not disrupted by the electoral process.
