Education authorities in Rubirizi district have intensified efforts to eliminate illegal and substandard schools in a district-wide crackdown aimed at safeguarding learners’ right to quality education.
Led by the District Inspector of Schools, Ms. Mary Kyomugisha, the ongoing operation has resulted in the closure of more than 15 privately-owned primary schools found operating without government approval or in violation of education standards.
The affected schools include Hill Top Primary School – Kyenzaza, Star Light Primary School – Magambo, St. Hellens Primary School – Butoha, Bright Stars – Kanyara, Kagarama SDA Primary School, Good Shepherd Primary School, Mother Care Primary School – Kyabakara, Good Hope Junior School – Kyabakara, Parental Care – Magambo, St. Alphonse Nursery and Primary School – Omukyidandari, Rutoto, Divine Mercy Nursery School – Buzenga, and Nyandongo Full Gospel Primary School – Katanda.
“These institutions were found operating without licenses, lacked proper sanitation facilities, and were conducting lessons in unsafe, substandard structures,” She said.
“Some even had unqualified teachers who were not registered with the Ministry of Education and Sports. We cannot compromise the future of our children.”
She emphasized that the enforcement campaign is aligned with the national Basic Requirements and Minimum Standards (BRMS) policy, which mandates that all schools operate in a safe, hygienic, and conducive learning environment.
“The aim is not to shut down schools indiscriminately,” Ms. Kyomugisha explained.
“It is to ensure that children in Rubirizi are learning in environments that foster growth, safety, and academic excellence.”
The District Education Officer, Biiru Stivin Warufu, backed the initiative, noting that all school proprietors had been informed about the standards and given time to comply.
“We held a stakeholders’ meeting before the start of the second term, clearly communicating the expectations,” Mr. Warufu said.
“Unfortunately, some schools ignored our guidance. Education is a serious matter. We cannot allow children to study in environments that compromise their safety, health, and academic development.
He added that school closure is a last resort, undertaken only when institutions consistently fail to meet agreed standards.
The Rubirizi District leadership has pledged to continue with routine inspections and follow-up assessments to ensure that all schools, both private and public, are compliant with Ministry of Education and Sports regulations.
“We must work together to protect the right to quality education for every child in Rubirizi,” Mr. Warufu emphasized.
“It’s not just about having classrooms and teachers. It’s about delivering education that is safe, structured, and future-oriented.”
This crackdown is part of a broader national effort to eliminate unregistered and poorly managed education institutions across Uganda.