Kirabira highlighted that private schools play a crucial role in the education sector but are hindered by excessive taxation, which he described as suffocating their operations. He stated, “If the government can remove the impediments our institutions face, this will significantly improve education.” The joint paper presented by private school owners called for a special education fund to provide financing at lower interest rates, addressing the burden of bank loans many institutions currently endure.
Despite their calls for support, private school owners remain adamant about retaining the autonomy to set their own fees. They argue that regulating school fees would undermine the principles of privatization and limit innovation within the sector. As discussions continue, tensions rise over how best to balance educational quality and financial sustainability in Uganda’s private education landscape.