Education Ministry Clears International Schools to Continue Term Two Lessons and Exams

The Ministry of Education and Sports has cleared international schools across Uganda to continue with Term Two instruction and proceed with ongoing examinations, citing the need to ensure continuity of learning under their respective academic calendars.

In a circular dated January 21, addressed to proprietors and principals of international schools, the ministry acknowledged that international institutions operate under different academic systems aligned to external examination bodies such as Cambridge International Examinations, the International Baccalaureate (IB), the French National Baccalaureate, and the American education system.

“The Ministry of Education and Sports is cognisant of the fact that international schools operate under different academic calendars, which are aligned to the requirements of the respective examination systems undertaken by learners,” the letter states.

The ministry noted that, in line with these calendars, learners in international schools had already reported for Term Two instruction before the government’s official announcement on the reopening of schools and other educational institutions scheduled for February 10, 2026.

“In light of the foregoing and considering the need to ensure continuity of learning and orderly administration of academic programmes, the Ministry hereby authorises international schools to continue with Term Two instructional activities and proceed with ongoing examinations,” the circular adds.

The ministry emphasised that the continuation of lessons and examinations must be in accordance with approved curricula, examination schedules, and applicable regulatory and quality assurance requirements.

“All proprietors and principals are reminded to ensure full compliance with the Education Act, relevant regulations, and any guidelines issued by the Ministry from time to time,” the ministry said, adding that it would continue to monitor and supervise academic activities to ensure adherence to national education standards.

The circular was signed by Dr Cleophas Mugenyi, for the Permanent Secretary, and copied to the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports.

The clarification brings relief to international schools that had sought guidance following concerns about the alignment of their academic calendars with the national school reopening schedule.