The release of the 2024 Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) results on January 23, 2025, may seem like a hallmark of progress, but let’s delve deeper into the cracks beneath this polished surface. While Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni presided over the ceremony with the customary pomp, we cannot ignore the glaring flaws in Uganda’s education system, which the government conveniently sidesteps.
First, the Ministry of Education proudly parades its adherence to timelines, as seen with the scheduled Senior One (S1) selection on January 30 and 31, followed by the term’s commencement on February 17, 2025. But does a strictly maintained calendar translate to quality education? Many rural schools continue to grapple with inadequate learning materials, overcrowded classrooms, and insufficient teachers. These realities are miles apart from the elite institutions whose students are celebrated during result releases.
Parents and guardians are urged to prepare for the transition to Senior One. Yet, the economic strain on families is immense. The rising cost of school fees, compounded by hidden charges such as “development fees” and “uniform contributions,” places education out of reach for many. For the government to claim commitment to efficient educational progression while parents struggle to afford basic education is hypocritical.
Schools, too, are advised to prepare to welcome new students. But how? With dilapidated infrastructure, outdated textbooks, and overwhelmed teaching staff, most public schools remain ill-equipped to meet the demands of the new cohort. The Ministry’s failure to address these chronic issues perpetuates the cycle of poor academic performance and limited opportunities for Uganda’s children.
The elephant in the room remains the persistent inequalities in education. The First Lady’s well-dressed speeches about structured transitions do little to mask the reality that education quality is a privilege for the few who can afford it. Instead of ceremonies at State House, we need investments in rural schools, improved teacher training, and subsidized fees.
Yes, the release of PLE results and the subsequent processes are important milestones. But until the government prioritizes meaningful reforms over publicity stunts, Uganda’s education sector will remain a façade of progress hiding a crumbling foundation.
The time for real action is now—our children deserve better than empty promises.
Discussion about this post