The postponement reflects Uganda’s highly volatile election environment…

By Advent Shoko

Uganda’s Ministry of Education and Sports has postponed the reopening of all schools and education institutions to Tuesday, 10 February 2026, citing learner safety concerns linked to the country’s general elections.

In an official statement dated 18 January 2026, the Ministry said the decision follows its earlier announcement that schools would reopen on 2 February 2026, but was reviewed after consultations around election-related security and logistics. The statement seen by ZiGoats reads in part:

“The Ministry hereby informs you that due to the General Elections and to ensure the safety of all learners, all Schools and Education Institutions across the country are directed to reopen on Tuesday 10 February 2026.”

The directive applies across the board, covering public and private schools, international schools, tertiary institutions and universities, leaving no room for exemptions. Authorities say the move is meant to reduce risks associated with election-day movement, political gatherings, and potential disruptions.

Permanent Secretary D. Kedrace Turyagyenda said all school administrators must strictly comply with the revised academic calendar, which has now been formally adjusted.

Under the new schedule, Term One for the 2026 academic year will run from 10 February to 1 May 2026. Terms Two and Three remain unchanged, maintaining the total 260 learning days for the year.

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Old Calendar

The postponement reflects Uganda’s highly volatile election environment, marked by violent clashes between state security forces and supporters of opposition leader Bobi Wine. The National Unity Platform accused authorities of harassment, mass arrests and excessive force during the campaign. Several people were reported killed amid protests as President Yoweri Museveni secured a seventh term. Bobi Wine, who was arrested on Friday, dismissed the vote as a sham, alleging doctored results that did not reflect the people’s will. The unrest also triggered a US travel advisory, making school reopening unsafe.