In a last-minute directive, the Ministry of Education and Sports has postponed the reopening of all schools and educational institutions for the first term of the 2026 academic year. Originally scheduled for Monday, February 2, 2026, the new reopening date is now set for Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
The term will run from February 10 to May 1, 2026, affecting pre-primary, primary, secondary schools, international institutions, tertiary colleges, and universities across the country.
The decision, outlined in an official circular signed by Permanent Secretary Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda, comes in the wake of the January 15, 2026, general elections, which saw incumbent President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni declared the winner. The postponement aims to “ensure the safety of all learners” during the sensitive post-election period, when tensions and potential disruptions could arise.
This adjustment follows the ministry’s earlier announcement on January 6, 2026, which had fixed February 2 as the official start date and detailed the full academic calendar, including reporting timelines for Senior One (February 16) and Senior Five (February 23) students.
Dr. Turyagyenda emphasized strict compliance, stating: “Vice Chancellors, Principals, Headteachers, parents, guardians, school administrators, students, and the public are hereby notified that Term One of the Academic Year 2026 will run from Tuesday, February 10, 2026, to May 1, 2026. All school administrators are required to adhere strictly to these dates and the approved school calendar.”
Parents and guardians are urged to revise travel and preparation plans accordingly to avoid inconvenience. The ministry has assured stakeholders that any further updates will be communicated through official channels.
This move highlights the delicate balance between maintaining academic continuity and prioritizing learner safety during periods of national transition. School administrators must now adjust logistics, while millions of students and families await the delayed return to classrooms.
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