The Ministry of Education and Sports requires all government and private schools with boarding facilities in Uganda to meet mandatory minimum standards for accommodation, sanitation, safety and learner welfare. These requirements provide a framework for schools to create a safe and suitable living environment for learners.
Minimum Boarding School Facilities
#1. Separate Boys’ and Girls’ Dormitories
Boarding schools are required to provide separate dormitories for girls and boys, organised by class.
#2. One Bed Per Learner
Every learner is required to have a separate metallic bed measuring 3×6 feet. Bed sharing is prohibited, and there should be enough space for learners to store their suitcases or boxes and to stretch while sleeping. Sufficient space between beds is mandatory.
#3. Windows & Emergency Doors
Every dormitory should have cross-ventilation windows without burglar-proofing and at least one emergency exit.
#4. Laundry Spaces
Each dormitory should have a functional laundry area, proper drainage, and ironing facilities.
#5. Light Systems & No Sockets in Dormitories
Dormitories are required to have adequate lighting based on the size of the dormitory and the number of occupants. Electrical sockets are not allowed inside dormitories.
#6. Separate Toilets/Latrines
Boarding schools are required to provide separate toilet facilities for boys, girls, and learners with special needs. The required ratio is 1 toilet for every 40 learners, with separate facilities for classrooms and dormitories.
#7. Waste Management
Schools are required to have proper waste management systems, including an incinerator.
#8. Dormitory Fencing
Dormitory areas must have secure fencing with controlled access while maintaining safe emergency exits.
#9. Bathing Facilities
Boarding schools are required to provide separate bathing facilities for boys, girls, and learners with special needs, organised by age groups. The facilities should have proper drainage, with urinals for boys.
#10. Fire Safety
Every dormitory block must have fire extinguishers and smoke detectors.
#11. Vector Control
Schools are required to conduct termly fumigation by a registered company at least one week before reopening.
Requirements for Operating a Boarding School Section in Uganda
Schools operating boarding sections must have a valid Ministry of Education & Sports certificate. Private schools must also hold a valid licence and registration certificate.
Every dormitory must have an occupancy permit issued by the relevant local government authority under the Occupational Safety and Health (Amendment) Act 2025.
Boarding School Staffing Requirements
Matrons/Wardens
Every dormitory should have a matron or warden, based on the gender of learners, who is at least 30 years old, has a minimum Primary Seven qualification, undergoes medical examinations with a certificate every six months, has an LC1 Chairperson recommendation, resides at the school, and works under an administrator.
Guards (Askari)
Boarding schools are required to employ guards for 24-hour security. Every guard should have an LC1 recommendation, basic security training, and be under 60 years of age.
Cooks
Cooks should be medically examined and certified every six months, have security clearance and LC1 recommendations, hold at least a Primary Seven qualification, wear the prescribed uniform (gumboots and white head cover), and have basic food handling experience. The cook requirements also apply to day schools.
Sick bay
Every school is required to provide a sick bay with separate treatment spaces for boys and girls, a full-time health worker, basic medicines, and compliance with national school health policies.
Source: Ministry of Education and Sports, Basic Requirements and Minimum Standards for Schools (May 2026).
