education 4 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Schools Defy Ban on Holiday Coaching Amid Rest Debate
Despite a Ministry of Education ban on holiday teaching, many Ugandan schools continue coaching for candidate classes, citing better supervision and results, while experts warn of mental health risks and burnout from lack of rest. Parents and students are divided, with some favoring structured revision and others prioritizing family time and relaxation. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/education/the-puzzle-of-holiday-coaching-and-resting-5446262
Uganda Schools Defy Ban on Holiday Coaching Amid Rest Debate
As the first term ends, numerous schools in Uganda are transforming holidays into extended study periods, particularly for Primary 7, Senior 4, and Senior 6 candidates. These programs feature revision schedules, in-person or online classes, and assessments, defying a 2007 Ministry ban aimed at ensuring student rest.
Violations carry severe penalties like school closures or headteacher license revocations, yet practices persist discreetly. A Wakiso science teacher named Paul argued physical coaching provides close monitoring, immediate corrections, and focus, especially since online options suffer from distractions and access issues.
Some schools opt for virtual sessions to balance learning and leisure. Racheal Namawejje from Emirates High School noted shorter online classes, recorded content, and no transport costs allow students to revise without overload while staying home safely.
Opponents emphasize true breaks. Gayaza High School headteacher Robinah Kizito insists holidays are for family, refreshment, and avoiding burnout, warning constant study tires students before terms resume.
Parents are split: Jennifer Nayebare prefers school coaching for supervision and productivity over home idleness risks, while single father Ibrahim Ssenkoole bears extra costs to prevent his daughter falling behind.
Students echo the tension. Senior 4 learner Florence Nakanjako feels physical sessions mimic school without respite, and even WhatsApp assignments curb relaxation. Senior 6 Joel Kato sees coaching as quasi-mandatory to avoid catch-up struggles.
Ministry Permanent Secretary Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda stressed holidays foster overall growth, family bonds, and life skills, banning coaching after it favored paying students with key topics. UNATU’s Filbert Baguma criticized parental neglect, weak enforcement, and teacher coercion for income.
Psychologist Janet Kantalama from Safe Places Uganda highlighted risks: mental fatigue, stress, anxiety, and long-term disinterest from unprocessed learning without brain recovery.
Student opinions from Mengo Senior School vary—some praise coaching for retention and previews, others decry lost leisure for games and fun, suggesting tailored, enforced work instead of overload.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)