Uganda is rich in culture and potential yet still coping with significant educational challenges. With a young population eager to learn, the demand for accessible, high-quality education has never been greater. But what does it take to start a school in Uganda? Is it a noble cause, a profitable venture, or both? Beatrice Nakibuuka explores the dynamics, challenges, and rewards of establishing a school in Uganda.
Education landscape in Uganda
Uganda’s education system, comprising public and private institutions, has progressed since the introduction of Universal Primary Education (UPE) in 1997. However, public schools often face overcrowding and underfunding, leaving private schools to fill the gap. In rural areas, limited access to quality education forces students to travel long distances or drop out entirely.
According to the 2024 Census, Uganda’s literacy rate stands at 74 per cent, reflecting the high regard for education as a way to success. Parents increasingly seek private schools that offer smaller class sizes, better facilities, and international curricula. This demand creates a golden opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to make a difference while building sustainable businesses.
Dynamics of starting a school
Establishing a school in Uganda involves complying with regulations set by the Ministry of Education and Sports, including registration, meeting health and safety standards, and employing qualified staff. While bureaucratic, these steps ensure quality assurance.
Acquiring land and constructing suitable facilities are crucial first steps. According to Salim Kabunga, founder of Joy Mother’s Love Schools, “A well-designed school with spacious classrooms, a library, and a playground not only attracts students but also enhances learning outcomes.”
Choosing the right curriculum is another critical decision. While the Uganda National Curriculum is widely adopted, international options like Cambridge or the International Baccalaureate (IB) appeal to parents seeking global opportunities for their children.
Initial investment, costs
Starting a school in Uganda is capital-intensive. Land acquisition, construction, and furnishing can cost between USD50,000 and USD 200,000, depending on the scale and location. Additional expenses include recruiting teachers, paying staff salaries, and purchasing learning materials.
Revenue primarily comes from tuition fees, which vary by location and target market. Boarding facilities and extracurricular activities offer additional income streams. Some schools also partner with NGOs or receive grants to subsidise education for underserved communities.
“While the potential for profit is high, challenges like low enrolment rates in the early years and competition from established schools can affect short-term profitability. Successful schools focus on building a strong reputation to ensure steady growth,” Kabunga advises.
Engaging local communities often ensures buy-in and support. Schools involving parents and community leaders in decision-making tend to see higher enrolment and retention rates.
Social, economic impact
Beyond profitability, schools play a transformative role in communities. They provide jobs for teachers, administrative staff, and construction workers, boosting local economies. Educated students contribute to national development, driving innovation and reducing poverty.
“Schools that embrace technology and innovative teaching methods stand out,” says Jenipher Kaswarra, founder of Kings Schools. “Integrating STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programmes prepares students for 21st-century careers.”
As Uganda’s young population continues to grow, the need for innovative and accessible education solutions becomes increasingly urgent. Starting a school offers a unique opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.
Challenges
While rewarding, starting and running a school in Uganda presents significant challenges:
High initial costs
Acquiring land and constructing facilities that meet regulatory standards is expensive, particularly in urban areas. Securing financing is often difficult, with banks imposing high-interest rates.
Bureaucracy:
“Registering a school involves navigating complex procedures with multiple government agencies, which can be time-consuming and costly,” Kaswarra explains. Adhering to health, safety, and curriculum standards is particularly challenging for rural proprietors with limited resources.
Competition
New schools face stiff competition from established institutions with strong reputations. Urban parents favour schools with modern facilities and proven track records. Other issues are: finding qualified teachers, digital integration, among others.
Way forward
Despite these challenges, innovative solutions can help:
Partnerships
Collaborations with NGOs, international donors, or corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes provide funding and resources. For instance, PEAS (Promoting Equality in African Schools) leverages donor funding and government partnerships to provide affordable education.
Regulatory guidance
Engaging consultants or attending Ministry of Education workshops simplifies compliance. “This proactive approach reduces delays,” Kabunga notes.
Specialisation
Offering unique curricula, extracurricular activities, or specialised learning environments can set schools apart. Galaxy International School in Kampala, for example, focuses on STEM education, providing modern labs and robotics clubs.
Teacher retention
Providing professional development and non-monetary benefits, such as housing or scholarships for teachers’ children, helps retain skilled staff. Bridge Schools Uganda invests in training and equipping teachers with preloaded tablets to ensure consistency.
With strategic planning, community collaboration, and a commitment to quality, entrepreneurs can create institutions that are both financially sustainable and socially impactful.
