One year after the Government’s RAPEX reforms, the Ministry of Education and Sports is delivering results for Uganda’s public libraries — with a reinstated grant, new digital training for staff, and a clear mandate to transform library services nationwide.

The Ministry of Education and Sports has reinstated the Public Libraries Conditional Grant and equipped 40 public librarians, ICT officers and records officers from 20 local Governments with digital skills to modernize library services across the country.

This was revealed during the closure of a 4-day Continuous Professional Development training for public librarians held on 13th August 2026.

The training, organized by the Division of Library and Documentation Services, targeted strengthening ICT, advocacy, and social media use in public libraries.

Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Patrick Muinda, Commissioner, Library, E-learning and ICT at MoEs, noted that following the RAPEX reforms of July 2024, the functions of the National Library of Uganda were mainstreamed under MoES. These include providing technical guidance and coordinating staff development for library and information professionals.

“MoES recognizes the crucial role that you public librarians play in advancing research, learning, and literacy,” Dr. Muinda said.

The Ministry pledged continued support to Local Governments through policy development, inspection of libraries, expansion of rural community libraries, reading campaigns, adult literacy programs, and staff training.

In a major boost, the Ministry successfully lobbied the Ministry of Finance to reinstate the Public Libraries Conditional Grant, which had been suspended. The grant has now been approved in the FY 2026/2027 budget and release is being processed.

The training attracted 40 participants from 20 Local Governments. Topics covered included library management, digitization, electronic resources, and the application of Artificial Intelligence in public libraries.

MoES however emphasized that establishing and managing public libraries remains the mandate of Local Governments, with the Ministry playing a guidance and supportive role.