This fact sheet presents the key findings from Uganda’s School Leadership Country Mapping, undertaken by the African Centre for School Leadership (ACSL) and the Ministry of Education and Sports. It provides a concise overview of the country’s school leadership landscape, examining four strategic areas: policy frameworks, professional development, research and evidence, and sector coordination. Drawing on policy analysis, a review of 53 research publications, stakeholder consultations, and a national validation workshop, the fact sheet identifies the most significant achievements, challenges, and opportunities for strengthening school leadership in support of improved teaching and learning.
The fact sheet highlights that Uganda has a strong legislative foundation for school leadership, but the absence of a dedicated national school leadership policy has resulted in fragmented implementation, inconsistent leadership preparation, and limited coordination across institutions. While professional development opportunities are expanding, access remains uneven, formal induction and mentoring are insufficient, and many programmes continue to rely on project-based funding. It also identifies important evidence gaps, particularly in gender equality, disability inclusion, digital leadership, and system-wide governance, while noting that stakeholder coordination requires stronger institutional alignment.
To address these challenges, the fact sheet recommends establishing a standalone school leadership policy, institutionalising professional development, investing in applied research, strengthening national coordination mechanisms, promoting gender-responsive and inclusive leadership, and leveraging digital technologies to improve leadership effectiveness and education outcomes nationwide.