The Ministry of Education and Sports has authorised international schools across Uganda to continue with Term Two learning activities and ongoing examinations despite discrepancies between national and international academic calendars.
The directive, issued on January 21, 2026, is intended to prevent disruptions in learning for schools operating under international curricula, many of which had already begun Term Two before the Ministry announced February 10, 2026 as the official reopening date for schools nationwide.
In a circular addressed to proprietors and principals of international schools, the Ministry acknowledged that such institutions follow different academic schedules aligned to global examination systems, including Cambridge International Examinations, the International Baccalaureate, the French National Baccalaureate and the American system of education.
The Ministry noted that the overlap between the national school calendar and international academic schedules had created uncertainty, particularly regarding the continuation of Term Two lessons and examinations already in progress.
To address the situation, the Ministry authorised international schools to proceed with their academic programmes, including examinations, in line with their approved curricula, examination timetables and regulatory frameworks.
“The Ministry is aware of the varying academic calendars and the need to maintain continuity of education for learners in international schools. We have therefore authorised these institutions to continue with Term Two instructional activities and ongoing examinations,” the letter stated.
The Ministry, however, reminded school proprietors and principals of their obligation to comply with the Education Act and all applicable regulations and guidelines. It said academic activities would continue to be monitored to ensure adherence to national education standards and quality requirements.
The decision has been welcomed by international schools, many of which had raised concerns about potential disruptions to learning and examination schedules if required to pause academic activities.
The Ministry said the move reflects its broader effort to maintain stability in the education sector while accommodating the operational realities of schools that function under different academic frameworks.
The correspondence was also copied to the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, as well as the Ministers of State for Education, underscoring continued government oversight of the matter.
As national schools prepare to reopen next month, the Ministry said the arrangement will allow learners in international schools to continue their studies without interruption.
