The Ministry of Education and Sports has dismissed claims circulating online and offline that schools across Uganda have been closed or suspended because of Ebola.
This follows the widespread circulation of false information on social media platforms and through word-of-mouth conversations in recent days, causing concern among parents, learners, and school administrators.
In a statement shared with our reporter, the Ministry’s spokesperson, Dr. Dennis Mugimba, said all education institutions remain open, and learning is continuing as normal.
“Please ignore videos and social media messages speculating about the closure of educational institutions. Only trust information from authorised government sources as you continue with normal learning routines safely,” Mugimba said.
Uganda’s current Ebola outbreak has been linked to cross-border transmission from the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to the Ministry of Health, nine confirmed cases and one death had been recorded as of May 31, 2026.
Ahead of the reopening of the second school term last week, the Ministries of Health and Education issued standard operating procedures for schools aimed at preventing the spread of Ebola.
The measures include regular handwashing with soap and water, temperature screening, establishment of isolation areas for suspected cases, and routine monitoring for symptoms. Schools reopened as scheduled and continue to operate under these health guidelines.
Although some institutions initially faced challenges in fully implementing the requirements, the government allowed a brief compliance period to enable schools to put the necessary measures in place.
