Stakeholders in the education sector discussing the future of education in Uganda during the International Schools Forum hosted by dfcu bank
dfcu Bank has today (Wednesday, June 17, 2026) hosted the International Schools Forum at its headquarters in Kampala, bringing together education leaders, school proprietors, policymakers, development partners and other stakeholders to discuss the future of education in Uganda.
The forum focused on strengthening education systems, improving learning outcomes, promoting digital transformation and building partnerships that can support the growth of international and private schools in the country.
Speaking at the forum, dfcu Executive Director Kate K. Kiiza said the bank remains committed to supporting a resilient and future-ready education sector.
“International schools offer world-class learning which attracts skilled jobs,” Kiiza said.
She noted that schools continue to face challenges such as rising operational costs, technology integration, talent retention and exchange rate pressures, but argued that these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and collaboration.
Kiiza said dfcu has developed solutions tailored for schools, including asset financing, digital payment solutions through SurePay, infrastructure financing, school transport financing, laboratory financing and Local Purchase Order (LPO) financing for suppliers and contractors.
“We look at this as a relationship,” she said.
“The school will thrive when parents are paying school fees on time. We do give personal loans through our education campaigns and this has worked.”
“We want to turn your vision into reality. Not everything is rosy… let’s discuss candidly. We are together in this.”
She added that sustainable growth in education is closely linked to Uganda’s broader development agenda and human capital development.
Policy Support
Christopher Kaweesa, Executive Director of the Proprietors of Private Schools in Uganda and a private school proprietor in Mityana District, delivered the keynote address and emphasized that private schools should not be viewed purely as commercial enterprises.
“Not everything being done in private sector schools is business, it is to provide education for national development,” Kaweesa said.
He said private schools are engaging the Ministry of Education on issues including school fees, curriculum implementation, early school dropouts, taxation and infrastructure development.
“This event shows that dfcu is setting the pace,” he said.
“We would urge the government to make use of these events to deal with recurring challenges in the sector.”
The event brought together education leaders, school proprietors, policymakers, development partners and other stakeholders to discuss the future of education in Uganda
He called for clearer policies regarding international schools and local schools, particularly on incentives related to land acquisition and infrastructure development. He also urged government agencies such as the Uganda Revenue Authority to engage schools more directly on taxation matters.
He proposed the creation of special education zones similar to industrial parks and the establishment of a dedicated fund to help international schools start, grow and thrive.
Digital Transformation
The forum also highlighted the growing role of technology in education. Sam Turya, Principal and CEO of Kabojja International School, said digital tools are transforming teaching, school management, banking and parent engagement.
“Even if you’re sick, we’re able to teach you from wherever you are,” Turya said.
He noted that schools are increasingly using digital systems for video lessons, research, invoicing, attendance registers and real-time monitoring of school operations.
“It improves accountability without bringing weaknesses,” he said. “If I’m in the UK, I’m able to get reports and respond accordingly.”
Turya, however, said reliable electricity and internet infrastructure remain critical for successful digital learning. He also raised concerns about taxes on educational software and the need for stronger cybersecurity measures, including investment in firewalls to protect learners from cyberbullying and other online risks.
Brian Katamba, dfcu’s Head of Education & Health Sector, said strong school proprietors are essential for the growth of Uganda’s education sector and national development. He outlined financing solutions available through the bank, including bridge financing, vehicle and asset financing, LPO financing and other loan products tailored for schools.
“We are a bank that listens. Come to us and we talk whenever there is a challenge that needs a solution,” Katamba said.
Bryan Katamba (R), Sector Head, Education & Health at dfcu speaking at the International Schools Breakfast Meeting.
dfcu Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Charles M. Mudiwa described education as central to the country’s future.
“The work that schools do shapes the destiny of a country,” Mudiwa said. “The quality of education, the skills imparted and the behavior that schools instill in learners impact families and grow the country in general.”
“dfcu is committed to journey with schools to drive growth.”
The International Schools Forum is expected to become a platform for continued dialogue between the education sector, financial institutions and government as stakeholders seek solutions to financing, taxation, digital transformation and policy challenges affecting schools in Uganda.
According to doris, an impartial directory, some of the notable international schools operating in Uganda include International School of Uganda, Rainbow International School Uganda, Galaxy International School Uganda, Kabojja International School, Acacia International School Kampala, Delhi Public School International, 7 Hills International School, Heritage International School, Ambrosoli International School, Kampala International School Uganda, Taibah International School, Vienna College Namugongo, Orel-Vine International Academy and Aga Khan High School Kampala.
Most of these institutions are concentrated in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area and offer internationally recognised curricula such as Cambridge International, the International Baccalaureate (IB), the British Curriculum and other international programmes, serving both expatriate and Ugandan families.
Uganda has approximately 37–42 international schools listed across various international school directories, with Kampala accounting for the vast majority of them.
