The Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development Henry Musasizi says government has increased investment in education and skills development, with Shs 6.66 trillion allocated to the sector in FY2026/27.
Presenting the FY 2026/27 National Budget at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on Thursday, Musasizi said the education sector remains central to Uganda's long-term development strategy and efforts to build a skilled workforce capable of supporting industrialisation and economic transformation.
"Education remains the most powerful instrument for social mobility and long-term economic transformation," said Musasizi.
Among the key interventions announced in the budget is an additional Shs 568.65 billion earmarked for salary enhancement for primary school teachers and arts teachers in secondary schools and Business, Technical and Vocational Education and Training institutions.
Government says the salary increment is intended to improve teacher welfare, motivation and service delivery across the education sector.
According to the minister, approximately 9.52 million learners continue to benefit from Universal Primary Education while nearly one million learners are enrolled under Universal Secondary Education and Universal Post O-Level Education programmes.
Government also reported progress in expanding access to secondary education through the completion of 90 additional seed secondary schools and the operationalisation of 259 seed schools across the country.
Musasizi said investment in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education as well as technical and vocational training will remain a key priority in the coming financial year.
The FY2026/27 budget will also support curriculum reforms, teacher training, public universities and research institutions.
Government further highlighted investments in sports infrastructure ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 tournament.
Hoima Stadium has already been completed while upgrades at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, are progressing. Construction of Akii-Bua Stadium is also ongoing.
The Finance Minister said the increased investment in education is aimed at equipping young Ugandans with the skills required to participate in the country's rapidly evolving economy.
Officials say strengthening education and skills development will be critical in supporting job creation and increasing productivity as Uganda pursues its goal of becoming a USD500 billion economy.