dfcu Bank deepens support for international schools amid sector growth challenges

As Uganda’s education sector grapples with rising operational costs, increasing regulatory demands, and evolving global education standards, dfcu Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth and sustainability of schools, particularly within the country’s expanding international education segment.

The bank made the commitment during a high-level International Schools Forum held at its headquarters in Nakasero, Kampala. The event brought together school proprietors, education regulators, curriculum providers, and private sector stakeholders to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of education in Uganda.

The forum comes at a time when private and international schools are facing mounting pressure to meet international accreditation requirements while navigating local economic realities. Institutions continue to contend with foreign exchange fluctuations affecting curriculum costs, increasing expenditure on infrastructure and technology, and the need to attract and retain qualified teaching staff.

Sector stakeholders have also highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between policymakers and private education providers to improve regulatory clarity and ensure financial sustainability.

Speaking during the forum, dfcu Bank Chief Executive Officer Charles Mudiwa emphasized the critical role education plays in shaping Uganda’s future.

“Schools shape the nation we become. The quality of education and the values imparted to young people ultimately determine the future of our country,” Mudiwa said.

Drawing from his own experience in the education sector before joining banking, Mudiwa acknowledged the operational challenges schools face, including infrastructure development, resource management, and maintaining academic excellence under changing global education frameworks.

Uganda’s international schools sector has witnessed significant growth over the past decade, driven by increasing demand for globally recognised curricula such as Cambridge, International Baccalaureate (IB), and Accelerated Christian Education (ACE).

However, expansion has required substantial investment. Schools are expected to continually upgrade science and technology laboratories, digital learning systems, transport and boarding facilities, and teacher training programmes to maintain international standards.

At the same time, many institutions are managing fluctuating enrolment levels and rising operating costs, while parents increasingly struggle with school fee affordability.

dfcu Bank says its education sector strategy is designed to help institutions expand sustainably while strengthening the broader ecosystem that supports learning outcomes.

Bryan Katamba, dfcu’s Sector Head for Education and Health, said the bank’s approach goes beyond traditional financing.

“Our role is not just to finance schools, but to support the entire education ecosystem—helping institutions grow, operate more efficiently, and deliver better outcomes for learners,” Katamba said.

Over the years, the bank has financed numerous school expansion projects across Uganda, including land acquisition, classroom construction, laboratories, and student facilities. It has also provided asset financing solutions to enable schools acquire transport fleets and specialised teaching equipment.

The bank is increasingly focusing on addressing affordability challenges faced by families, recognising that household financial stability directly affects school enrolment and institutional sustainability.

Participants at the forum stressed that stronger partnerships between schools, financial institutions, regulators, and curriculum providers will be essential in addressing common challenges and ensuring the sector’s continued growth.

Kate Kiiza, dfcu Bank’s Executive Director for Corporate and Institutional Banking, described education as a key pillar of national development.

“Education remains one of the most powerful drivers of prosperity. Supporting its growth is central to Uganda’s development journey,” she said.

As Uganda seeks to position itself as a regional education hub, particularly in the international schools segment, stakeholders say access to structured financing, innovation, and collaborative partnerships will be crucial in strengthening the sector’s resilience and long-term sustainability.