### The rise of school fees in Catholic schools in Africa: a challenge for access to education
In many regions of Africa, Catholic schools have established themselves as pillars of education, particularly for low -income families. The example of the Uganda Martyrs school in Kampala illustrates this dynamic. With a reputation for quality and values that transcend social classes, these establishments attract more and more students, but this popularity is accompanied by financial challenges which could compromise their mission of origin.
### Evolution of education costs
Vincent Ssegane, director of studies at Uganda Martyrs, stresses that tuition fees, which were once accessible to the majority, suffered upward pressure. Currently, the annual cost of costs amounts to around 600 dollars, an amount that may seem modest for some, but which represents a significant obstacle for many families. The rise in life costs, as well as the need to maintain adequate infrastructure, are all factors that contribute to this evolution.
Inflation, in particular, has a direct impact on the costs associated with education, a reality that many parents feel that seek to offer their children the possibility of solid training. However, despite the increase in costs, the doubling of registrations – reaching nearly 5,000 students – demonstrates the persistent attraction of these institutions. This raises an imminent question: what happens to access to education for children from disadvantaged backgrounds?
### family worries
Richard Kizito, father of four children registered in Catholic schools in Kampala, expresses an increasing concern that resonates in his community. According to him, Catholic schools, formerly accessible to everyone, now seem to orient themselves towards a model that favors richer families. His testimony highlights a bitter reality: “It is not because they do not want, they want, but they cannot afford it.”
This situation is representative of a broader phenomenon throughout sub -Saharan Africa, where an increasing number of children interrupt their studies due to increasing financial pressures. The absence of means to deal with the costs caused by education is one of the major reasons for the high dropout rate in this region, which is considered the highest in the world.
#### The implications of movement towards privatization
The rise in privatization in the educational sector raises important questions about the mission of Catholic schools. Historically, these institutions were created not only to educate but also to serve the disadvantaged populations. However, while the educational landscape is becoming more and more competitive, the risk exists that these schools move away from their initial mission.
School managers, while taking into account economic need, say that a charitable operational structure would not be viable in the face of market realities. The costs received are often justified by the need to cover high costs such as teachers ‘salaries, students’ nutrition, and infrastructure maintenance.
Nevertheless, it is important to wonder if this balance between financial viability and social mission is achievable. Initiatives aimed at creating scholarship funds or developing partnerships with non -governmental organizations could offer a path to better accessibility.
#### to an inclusive solution
In this context, how can Catholic schools reconcile the need to balance their account books with their historical commitment to vulnerable populations? This will require in -depth reflection and a desire to collaborate with communities, governments and other actors to find creative and sustainable solutions.
Alternative financing models, such as scholarship programs based on public-private needs or partnerships, could be explored tracks to guarantee that access to Catholic education remains a possibility for all children, regardless of their socio-economic status.
#### Conclusion
While Catholic schools continue to play a crucial role in education in Africa, increasing pressure for privatization and the rise in costs will be a significant challenge for their mission to provide quality and accessible education. By reflecting on innovative financial models and remaining faithful to their initial vocation, it will be possible to open bridges to a future where quality education is a right for all, and not a luxury reserved for a few.