Why gov’t plans to scrap automatic scholarships for university students

The Ugandan government has announced plans to abolish automatic merit scholarships for government-sponsored university students, citing concerns that the current system disproportionately favors children from affluent families.

According to a report by the Daily Monitor, the government intends to replace this system with a merit-based grant program called the National Excellence Scheme. This scheme will target top-performing students at the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) level or its equivalent.

Education experts and policymakers have welcomed the proposal, suggesting it will create a fairer system that provides opportunities for bright but financially disadvantaged students.

“The government is shifting from scholarships to grants, where students will have to apply for financial support,” explained Brighton Barugahare, the commissioner of the Education and Research Department. “We are ending the practice of giving students what they do not want. Some students would receive scholarships for education courses but later switch to engineering, as their parents can afford the costs.”

The changes are aimed at addressing concerns that the current system benefits students from elite schools in urban areas, particularly in Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono, whose families can afford higher education. Makerere University’s Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, praised the proposal, noting that it would ensure scholarships go to those who truly deserve them. “For a long time, the public has raised concerns about government scholarships benefiting students from wealthy families who can afford education.”

The Public Universities Joint Admission Board (PUJAB) is preparing to set up a verification team to ensure that the most deserving students facing economic hardships receive these scholarships. Dr. James Nkata, vice chairperson of the Public Universities Forum, also endorsed the proposal.

“The government is going in the right direction because the scholarships were meant to help the bright poor. Currently, many beneficiaries come from high-profile schools like Gayaza and Namilyango, whose parents can afford education, disadvantaging bright students from rural areas.”

Legislators, including Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, have long supported the removal of automatic scholarships, arguing that the existing system perpetuates inequality in access to education. The government’s proposed changes include expanding support for graduate students, establishing regional universities, and creating a National Research Fund to encourage research and innovation. Additionally, the reforms will focus on promoting STEM programs, addressing gender imbalances, and providing student loans for those in need.

However, some have voiced concerns. James Kubeketerya, chairperson of the parliamentary Education Committee, warned that removing automatic scholarships could discourage hard work among students.

“Previously, students who failed to secure government scholarships were required to repeat their studies. When private slots became available, students who missed out on scholarships would privately sponsor themselves, promoting hard work. Removing this system may reduce diligence,” Kubeketerya argued.

The proposed changes are set to be presented to the Cabinet and Parliament for approval. In addition, the government plans to establish centers of excellence for specialized education and training, support institutions in delivering community research and innovation through Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs), and regulate private higher education institutions to align with national needs.

As Uganda aims to strengthen its human capital and economic competitiveness, the reform of its higher education sector is seen as a critical step. The effectiveness of these changes in achieving their intended goals remains to be seen.