Old Kampala SSS PTA Blasts Ministry of Education Over Alleged Irregularities and Head Teacher Misconduct

Mrs. Dorothy Kabanda

KAMPALA — The Parents and Teachers Association (PTA) of Old Kampala Senior Secondary School has expressed deep dissatisfaction with the Ministry of Education, accusing it of protecting the school’s head teacher despite alleged financial mismanagement and punishing whistleblowers who attempt to expose irregularities.

In a letter addressed to the Ministry, the PTA Executive Committee questioned the ministry’s supervision of government schools, claiming that certain head teachers appear “untouchable” despite allegations of maladministration. The association cited the recent transfer of the school bursar as an example, alleging that he was moved after raising concerns about financial irregularities at the school.

According to the PTA, the bursar had advised the head teacher, Mrs. Dorothy Kabanda, on a number of financial issues, including discrepancies in admission fees. While the school budget reportedly indicated that Senior One and Senior Five students should pay Shs50,000 for admission, students were allegedly charged Shs100,000. The bursar’s attempts to question the difference were, according to the PTA, dismissed.

The association further alleged that the head teacher has been drawing a weekly allowance of Shs1 million that was not reflected in the approved school budget. In addition, concerns were raised over fuel expenses amounting to Shs3 million per month reportedly allocated to the head teacher, despite her residence being within the school premises.

The PTA also claims that more than 20 unapproved employees were added to the school payroll within five months without formal approval from the Board. Other alleged irregularities include expenditures not reflected in the approved budget and the disposal of school property without following established government procedures.

Among the assets reportedly sold are a school bus said to have been valued at Shs200 million but sold for Shs60 million, a school van allegedly valued at Shs45 million but sold for Shs15 million, and school furniture reportedly worth Shs60 million but sold for Shs15 million. The PTA claims some of the proceeds were receipted in cash and that proper procedures were not followed.

The association further alleges that school fees were increased and new requirements introduced without board approval or budgetary provision. It also claims that the head teacher has accumulated debts exceeding Shs500 million within six months.

In addition, the PTA expressed concern over reported pending transfers of some teachers and deputy head teachers, alleging that the moves are intended to consolidate administrative control.

The association questioned the Ministry’s decision to replace their preferred candidate, Milly Kabanda from Lubiri SSS, with Dorothy Kabanda, whom they claim lacked prior experience as a head teacher in a government school.

The PTA Executive Committee has now called upon the First Lady and Minister of Education to intervene and investigate the allegations, urging the Ministry to ensure accountability and restore professionalism in the management of the school.