Universal Primary Education (UPE): Drop-outs in Northern Uganda

Lira District implemented the policy of Universal Primary Education (UPE) after it was adopted by the government of Uganda in 1997 in line with presidential manifesto. It was set to enable all school-going age children attend free primary education. The broad policy framework was to empower and liberate citizens from illiteracy though basic education. Despite high enrolment rate (UNESCO, 2000; MOES, 2005), schools especially in rural areas registered high dropout rates due to school related problems such as poor learning environment and household level factors. The study addresses the issue of rate and causes of UPE dropouts while focusing on relevance of UPE curriculum in meeting the needs of school dropouts and how stakeholders should handle this problem. The research was conducted using mixed-method approach and multiple participants; combining documentary analysis and interview. The findings show that parents and community should play the role in furthering UPE which needs revitalizing. Finally, there should be an intervention by Ministry in revisiting budgetary allocation in order to upscale provision of teaching, learning facilities and feeding programme.