Lawmakers have urged the government to increase funding to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to enhance ICT infrastructure in schools, including computer supplies, maintenance, and broadband connectivity.
Under the Rural Communications Development Fund (RCDF), UCC implemented the Uganda Communications Universal Service and Access Fund (UCUSAF) from 2016 to 2023 to promote ICT use in education through broadband expansion. However, a report by Parliament’s Committee on ICT and National Guidance has revealed critical gaps, including a severe shortage of computers in secondary schools.
Limited Computers Hindering ICT Education
The report highlights that overcrowded computer labs are affecting ICT education, with students having limited hands-on learning time.
“The high student-to-computer ratio makes it difficult for teachers to manage computer-based lessons effectively, affecting the quality of education,” the report states.
At Uganda Military College, 60 computers serve over 200 students, while at Pilkington College, 40 computers cater to 1,300 students.
Committee Chairperson Hon. Tonny Ayoo observed that schools benefiting from the program struggle with poor internet connectivity, limiting access to online resources, e-learning platforms, and communication tools.
“Government, through UCC, should extend broadband connectivity to all secondary schools.
This will eliminate the costs schools are currently incurring to pay for private internet services,” Ayoo said.
Leaders Demand More ICT Investment
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa urged the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance to work with the Ministry of Finance to ensure adequate funding for broadband expansion.
He noted that out of the Shs 110 billion appropriated to UCC in 2024, only Shs 55 billion was disbursed.
“The major aim of creating this fund was traceability of money meant for improving communication services in rural areas. But when money goes back to the consolidated fund, it is not easy to trace,” Tayebwa said.
Hon. Anthony Esenu (NRM, Kapelebyong County) called for the construction of adequate computer laboratories in schools benefiting from the fund.
Hon. Alfred Edakasi (NRM, Kaberamaido County) stressed the need for reliable electricity in rural schools to support ICT lessons.
“Most rural schools have problems with access to ICT services because power is only available once a week. The cost of running generators, which most schools do not have, also remains a challenge,” Edakasi said.
Hon. Abed Bwanika (NUP, Kimaanya-Kabonera Division) urged the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development to provide dedicated power lines to schools, hospitals, and public institutions.
Hon. Laura Kanushu (NRM, PWD Representative) advocated for ICT accessibility for students with special needs.
“There is a software called JAWS that learners with visual impairment can use, but I do not think these computers have that software. I appeal to the government to ensure that at least one computer in every batch delivered to schools includes this software,” Kanushu said.
Government’s Plan to Bridge ICT Gaps
Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Chris Baryomunsi, assured MPs that schools without access to the national power grid but with computers under the program have been supported with solar energy.
“If there are schools with computers and no electricity, alert us so that we work with the Ministry of Energy to extend power, or in the meantime, provide solar energy,” Baryomunsi said.
He revealed that two loans from the World Bank and China EXIM Bank will expand national broadband infrastructure in the next two years.
The calls for increased ICT funding come amid growing concerns about Uganda’s ability to equip students with digital skills, a critical component of modern education.
