The government has been called upon to boost funding for the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to enhance ICT in education through the provision of computers, upkeep, and development of infrastructure in schools.
Through the Rural Communications Development Fund (RCDF), UCC implemented the Uganda Communications Universal Service and Access Fund (UCUSAF) from 2016 to 2023 to promote ICT adoption via broadband access and connectivity.
A report by the Committee on ICT and National Guidance regarding the fund’s operations highlights a scarcity of computers in secondary schools, leading to congested computer labs and minimal practical engagement for learners.
“The high student-to-computer ratio poses challenges for educators in conducting computer-based lessons efficiently, ultimately impacting the quality of ICT education. For instance, at the Uganda Military College, 60 computers serve over 200 students, whereas Pilkington College has only 40 computers for 1,300 students,” the report states.
While presenting the findings, Committee Chairperson Hon. Tonny Ayoo pointed out that schools that received computers through the fund struggle with insufficient and unreliable internet connectivity.
This, he noted, hinders access to digital learning materials, online education platforms, and communication tools.
“The government, through UCC, should ensure broadband expansion to all secondary schools. This will relieve schools benefiting from the program from the financial burden of privately sourcing internet services,” Ayoo added.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa urged the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance to collaborate with the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development to allocate sufficient resources for improving the country’s broadband infrastructure.
He observed that out of the Shs110 billion earmarked for UCC in 2024, only Shs55 billion was disbursed to the Commission.
“The primary objective of establishing this fund was to track resources meant to enhance communication services in rural areas. However, once the money is redirected to the consolidated fund, it becomes difficult to monitor,” Tayebwa remarked.
Hon. Anthony Esenu (NRM, Kapelebyong County) implored the government to construct adequate facilities in beneficiary schools, including fully equipped computer laboratories.
Hon. Alfred Edakasi (NRM, Kaberamaido County) urged the government to expand electricity distribution nationwide to enable schools to conduct ICT lessons effectively.
“Many rural schools struggle with ICT accessibility due to erratic power supply, with electricity available only once a week. Teachers are grappling with this challenge, and the expense of running generators—if the schools even have them—remains a significant hurdle,” Edakasi said.
Hon. Abed Bwanika (NUP, Kimaanya-Kabonera Division) emphasized the necessity for the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development to allocate dedicated power lines to institutions such as schools, hospitals, and other public service providers.
Hon. Laura Kanushu (NRM, PWD Representative) appealed to the government to enhance ICT accessibility for students with special needs.
“There exists software called JAWS, which visually impaired learners can effectively utilize, but I doubt these computers are equipped with it. I urge the government to ensure that with every batch of computers delivered to schools, at least one includes this software, as it is a fundamental right,” Kanushu stated.
The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Chris Baryomunsi, revealed that schools lacking access to the national power grid but had received computers through the fund were supported with solar energy.
“If there are schools with computers but no electricity, notify us [ICT Ministry] so we can collaborate with the Ministry of Energy to extend power supply or, as an interim measure, provide solar energy support,” Baryomunsi said.
He further mentioned that two loans secured from the World Bank and China EXIM Bank will facilitate the expansion of the national backbone infrastructure across the country over the next two years.
