Kyagulanyi pledges education reforms as he campaigns in Lwengo, Masaka

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National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu has placed education at the centre of his 2026 presidential campaign, pledging sweeping reforms to ensure that access to quality schooling is no longer determined by a child’s family income.

Speaking during campaign rallies in Masaka and Lwengo districts, Kyagulanyi criticised the current state of Uganda’s education sector, blaming underfunding, low teacher pay, and repeated strikes for declining learning outcomes.

“Our children sat exams this term, yet many did not study because teachers were on strike,” he said.

“In a new Uganda, all teachers, whether arts or science, will be paid well and on time.”

The two-time presidential candidate said his administration would prioritise teacher welfare as a foundation for restoring confidence in public education, arguing that motivated and fairly paid teachers are key to improving learning standards.

He further pledged to strengthen public schools and ensure that learners acquire practical, income-generating skills rather than certificates that offer little value in the job market.

“By the time a child completes Primary Seven, they should be able to do something productive that can earn them money."

Kyagulanyi addressing supporters at the rally. (Credit: Ponsiano Nsimbi)

'Dedicated'

Kyagulanyi said his proposed reforms would focus on competence-based learning, equipping learners with skills relevant to the economy and preparing them for employment or self-employment at an early stage.

He linked the education crisis to broader governance challenges, saying resources meant for schools are often diverted through corruption.

“All these things are possible because the money is there. The problem is that most of it is stolen,” he said, reiterating his pledge to tackle corruption, which he claimed costs the country more than 10 trillion shillings annually.

According to Kyagulanyi, transforming the education system does not require elite academic credentials but strong political will and commitment to national development.

“To fix education, you do not need to be highly educated; you need to be dedicated to the Ugandan cause."

He said investing in education would unlock Uganda’s demographic potential, noting that the country has one of the youngest populations in the world but is failing to adequately prepare young people for the future.

“We have intelligent young people, but the system is failing them."

(Credit: Ponsiano Nsimbi)

Joan Namutawe, Woman MP Masaka district. (Credit: Ponsiano Nsimbi)

(Credit: Ponsiano Nsimbi)

Evans Ronald Kanyike, MP Bukoto East.

Rose Nalubowa, NUP flag bearer for Woman MP Masaka City. (Credit: Ponsiano Nsimbi)