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The rot at the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC) has finally exploded into the open, and what is emerging from the Auditor General’s December 2025 report is a damning portrait of an institution limping under the weight of internal failures, financial indiscipline, and a bitter succession war at the top.

At the centre of the storm is Director Dr. Bernadette N. Karuhanga, a long-serving technocrat who has steered the institution for over five years, overseeing landmark reforms including the rollout of the new Lower Secondary Curriculum. But as insiders now whisper, her tenure is entering what one highly placed source called “its evening,” and the knives are already out.

“She has done her part, no doubt about that,” a senior insider told Red Pepper in hushed tones. “But the system is choking. The question now is whether she still has the energy and political backing to fix what is clearly broken.”

The Auditor General’s findings read like a charge sheet.

At a time when Uganda’s education system is under immense pressure to deliver quality and relevance, NCDC is sitting on UGX 392.49 million in receivables that have remained uncollected since 2003 — over two decades of financial laxity that now threatens to turn into outright bad debt. “This is not just oversight, this is negligence,” a source fumed. “How do you fail to collect money for 20 years?”

The financial mismanagement does not stop there. Out of UGX 1.97 billion in payables, a staggering UGX 1.96 billion — 99 percent — has been outstanding for more than a year, in direct violation of the Public Finance Management Act regulations. All this falls squarely under the watch of Finance Manager CPA Stephen Kwiri, raising serious questions about internal controls and accountability.

Inside the institution, the staffing situation is nothing short of alarming. Out of an approved structure of 236 positions, only 123 are filled, leaving a shocking 47 percent vacancy rate. Nearly half the workforce is missing, yet the institution is expected to drive one of the most ambitious education reforms in Uganda’s history.

“People are overstretched, morale is low, and yet expectations are sky high,” an insider revealed. “You cannot run a national curriculum body on half a tank.”

Responsibility for this staffing crisis points to the Human Resource and Administration docket led by John Habiyaremye, as questions mount over recruitment bottlenecks and planning failures.

Meanwhile, billions meant to transform the education sector are simply not being used. Of the planned procurements worth UGX 11.61 billion for the financial year, UGX 2.58 billion — 22 percent — was never undertaken. Procurement, under Livingston Rugasira, now finds itself under scrutiny, with critics asking whether inefficiency or internal wrangles are to blame.

And then comes the bigger picture — a strategic plan in disarray.

While the Centre projected a massive UGX 292.4 billion for its strategic ambitions, it only secured UGX 190.35 billion, leaving a funding gap of over UGX 102 billion. The consequences are evident: only 54 percent of planned strategic interventions were fully implemented, 8 percent partially executed, and a staggering 37 percent never took off at all.

“This is not just about money,” a policy analyst observed. “It is about planning, prioritisation, and leadership. Even with limited funds, you expect better than this.”

Revenue generation is equally disappointing. Out of UGX 116.47 million in Non-Tax Revenue projections for the 2024/2025 financial year, only UGX 43.94 million was realised — a performance rate of just 37.7 percent. Planning Unit head Ambrose Sansa now finds himself under pressure to explain the shortfall.

Perhaps most telling is the actual output on the ground. Out of outputs worth UGX 16.25 billion assessed, only two outputs worth UGX 608 million were fully implemented, while six outputs worth UGX 15.45 billion were only partially delivered. For an institution tasked with shaping the intellectual future of a nation, the figures are nothing short of shocking.

All this comes against the backdrop of widespread criticism of the new Lower Secondary Curriculum — a flagship reform under Dr. Karuhanga’s leadership. Teachers across the country have complained of inadequate training, lack of instructional materials, and the high cost of implementation. The much-touted “cascade” training model has been branded ineffective, leaving educators confused and students exposed.

“We were thrown into something we barely understood,” one teacher lamented. “Now learners are the ones paying the price.”

As pressure mounts, attention is also turning to the Governing Council chaired by Prof. George Ladaah Openjuru, who doubles as Vice Chancellor of Gulu University. Critics argue that oversight has been weak, allowing systemic issues to fester unchecked.

Behind closed doors, however, an even more explosive drama is unfolding.

Sources reveal a fierce internal battle for control of NCDC as Dr. Karuhanga’s contract edges closer to its end. Leading the charge are insiders including Deputy Director Research, Consultancy and Library Services, Dr. Richard Irumba, and Deputy Director Curriculum Review and Instructional Materials Development, Dr. Ssembirige Patrice, both reportedly eyeing the top seat.

“There is a silent war going on,” a source disclosed. “People are positioning, lobbying, and undermining each other. It’s no longer about the institution — it’s about who takes over.”

But the intrigue does not end there. Powerful actors are said to be pushing for an outsider to take the helm, a move that has unsettled insiders and intensified the power struggle. At the same time, some council members whose tenure is nearing its end are allegedly lobbying for extensions, further complicating the governance landscape.

“It’s a perfect storm,” the source added. “Leadership uncertainty, internal divisions, and a damning audit report — something has to give.”

The big question now hanging over NCDC is brutally simple: has Dr. Karuhanga outlived her usefulness?

While her supporters point to her role in modernising Uganda’s curriculum, critics argue that the mounting failures, exposed weaknesses, and growing unrest signal the need for fresh leadership.

As one education sector watcher put it, “Reforms are only as good as their implementation. Right now, the system is sending a very loud message — change is coming, whether people like it or not.”

For now, all eyes remain fixed on NCDC — an institution at the heart of Uganda’s education system, now caught in a storm of accountability, ambition, and survival.

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Stanbic Bank Launches “Kikole Ku Speedii” to Accelerate Digital Banking Experience

KAMPALA: Stanbic Bank Uganda has unveiled a new campaign, “Kikole Ku Speedii,” aimed at making banking services faster, simpler, and more convenient for its clients and customers.

Speaking at the launch, Head of Personal Banking Israel Arinaitwe said the initiative marks a shift from traditional banking processes to a more affordable, efficient, digital experience.

“We are moving from an era of paperwork and patience to one of speed and convenience,” he said, noting that the campaign aligns with the bank’s purpose: ‘Uganda is our home we drive her growth’ and also complements the government’s goal for a Tenfold GDP growth by 2040.

The campaign focuses on three key areas: easy account opening, seamless transactions, and faster access to credit. Customers can now open accounts within minutes using a national ID, carry out transactions digitally, and access loans of up to UGX 350 million more quickly through the bank’s online platforms.

Arinaitwe said through its Positive Impact Agenda, the bank remains committed to supporting women, youth, and farmers, while advancing its five strategic pillars: financial inclusion, job creation, infrastructure development, climate resilience, and corporate philanthropy.

“This initiative comes in a special year as Stanbic marks 35 years of supporting Uganda’s socio-economic transformation, backed by our parent company, Standard Bank Group,” he said.

Head of Digital Banking Yvone Namutosi said the innovations are based on customer feedback and are designed to address everyday banking challenges and common pain-points.

“Our platforms go beyond just banking. Customers can now access services such as bank statements, embassy letters, and other documents instantly from their phone sat no cost,” she said.

To mark the launch, the bank also introduced interest-free loans of up to UGX 5 million for new customers using its digital channels.

Meanwhile, Head of Affluent Banking Arthur Kiwanuka said, “By incorporating Stanbic Apps, we are also enhancing our hybrid model for affluent clients, combining 24/7 self-service convenience with personalized digital tools and in-person interactions.”

He said the digital transformation extends across the bank’s entire ecosystem, including branch upgrades and enhanced card services.

“Our goal is simple: a branch visit should be a matter of choice, not necessity. We want customers to walk into a branch only when it truly matters, not because they have no alternative,” he said.

Kiwanuka added that the bank is rolling out self-service machines to reduce the need for branch visits. These machines enable customers to make deposits, withdrawals, forex exchanges, and other transactions.

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Kampala, Uganda – Friday, March 20, 2026 – As Ugandans marked Eid-ul-Fitr today following the announcement that the Shawwal moon was not sighted earlier in the week, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni extended a timely gesture of support to ghetto communities in Greater Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono districts.

Through a special distribution of livestock and food items, the President aimed to bolster communal celebrations and reinforce ties with urban grassroots populations. The centerpiece event unfolded in Kyanja–Komamboga, Kampala, drawing ghetto representatives and leaders from across the region to receive the donations and the Head of State’s message.

Major General Christopher Ddamulira, Director of Crime Intelligence, personally delivered the consignment—featuring bulls, cows, and essential staples like rice—while conveying President Museveni’s appreciation for the communities’ steadfast role in upholding peace, particularly during recent elections.

“The President has sent me to thank you—his sons and daughters—for standing firm, maintaining peace, and directly supporting him through the ballot,” Maj. Gen. Ddamulira declared. “You have demonstrated patriotism and discipline. Continue on this path and avoid acts of criminality and violence.”

He spotlighted encouraging developments in the ghettos, such as increased uptake of National ID registration, which has empowered more residents to participate fully in national democratic life.

The government, he assured, remains dedicated to structured empowerment via Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs). Residents were encouraged to enroll in their division-level ghetto SACCOs to unlock forthcoming benefits.

“The President has acknowledged your responsible utilization of previous funds. The pledged UGX 5 billion support is in the pipeline, but you must organize yourselves through SACCOs to access these soft loans,” Maj. Gen. Ddamulira emphasized.

Major Emmanuel Kuteesa, accompanying the delegation, greeted the Muslim faithful on completing Ramadan and urged collective joy.

“This is not just about receiving bulls and food; it is about coming together as one family,” he said. “Organize yourselves, prepare a common venue, slaughter, cook, and celebrate together—no takeaways this time, but unity and shared joy.”

In Mukono Municipality, communities planned to assemble at Nakiyanja–Sonde in Goma Division—popularly called Goguryeo Kingdom Ghettos—led by Chairman Ssali Nazir. Home to over 300 self-employed youth in car washing bays, sand vending, and similar hustles, the area exemplifies rising enterprise amid urban challenges.

Local leaders hailed the initiative as a powerful symbol of government inclusion, deepening bonds between leadership and ordinary citizens.

Reiterating the President’s core message, Maj. Gen. Ddamulira stressed that lasting progress hinges on peace and discipline.

“A peaceful Uganda is the foundation for progress. I urge you all to remain disciplined and focused on development.”

The gesture arrives amid ongoing efforts to integrate ghetto youth into national programs, blending festive goodwill with calls for sustained stability and self-organization.

By Salongo Mazinga
Ghetto Coordinator, Mukono District

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Persons with disabilities in Nansana marked Eid al-Fitr with renewed calls for inclusion and economic empowerment, as Fenna Tujjune, an organisation supporting vulnerable communities, highlighted both progress and persistent challenges facing the group.

Speaking during Eid celebrations in Nansana East Zone 2A, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Fenna Tujjune, Ramonah Sarah Olunda, said the organisation has shifted from advocacy to practical interventions aimed at improving livelihoods for persons with disabilities.

“We started with advocacy, but now we are acting,” Olunda said. “We are acting on what we advocated for, social inclusion. We want to see a generation of persons with disabilities who are self-sufficient, able to meet their basic needs like food, medication, and shelter, instead of relying on handouts.”

Fenna Tujjune runs several income-generating projects designed to equip persons with disabilities with practical skills and employment opportunities. Among these is the production of hot boxes, made exclusively by mothers with disabilities, which are then sold to generate income.

For men, the organisation has introduced the assembly of panda cookers—clean energy stoves used in schools—providing another avenue for sustainable earnings.
Olunda noted that these initiatives are aimed at demonstrating the capabilities of persons with disabilities, who are often underestimated despite their talents.

“People here are very talented, but they are often seen as charity cases. Given a chance, they can earn their own living and contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.

The Eid celebrations, which brought together Muslims with disabilities from the area, marked the culmination of a month-long engagement during Ramadan. According to Olunda, the organisation managed to mobilise resources to feed at least 130 people.

“We have been with them from the beginning of Ramadan to the end. God has been with us, and we were able to raise funds to support them,” she said, expressing hope that future events will reach even more beneficiaries across areas such as Katanga and Kalerwe.

However, she pointed out that limited funding continues to constrain the organisation’s outreach, calling on the Muslim community, government, and the Ministry of Gender to provide support.
A major concern raised during the event was the issue of accessibility. Olunda highlighted that many persons with disabilities in slum areas struggle to access essential services, including places of worship, schools, and healthcare facilities.

“Even leaving their homes to reach the main road is a challenge. Some move on the ground because they lack wheelchairs,” she said. “Not all hospitals are accessible, and those who use sign language often cannot get interpreters.”

She also decried the high cost of mobility aids, noting that wheelchairs can cost between Shs800,000 and Shs1 million, largely due to taxes.

“We import wheelchairs and still pay taxes, even as an NGO. This makes it difficult to provide them freely or at affordable prices,” she said, urging government intervention to reduce costs and improve access to assistive devices.

Olunda also encouraged persons with disabilities to actively seek inclusion and assert their capabilities.

“Let’s go out and claim our space. Some people are willing to include us, but they don’t know what we can do. We need to show them,” she said, adding that begging should not be seen as the only option.

The event was attended by Robert Sewagudde, the National Member of Parliament representing persons with disabilities, who commended Fenna Tujjune for its efforts.

“I thank Fenna Tujjune for this recommendable work of inclusion, ensuring that persons with disabilities can also smile on such a day,” Sewagudde said.

He emphasised that many persons with disabilities, particularly within the Muslim community, continue to face significant barriers, including limited access to education and employment opportunities.
“Some children with disabilities are denied education due to poverty or negative attitudes from parents who see them as a misfortune,” he noted.

Sewagudde further challenged employers to embrace inclusivity, stressing that disability does not equate to inability.
“If given equal opportunities in education and employment, persons with disabilities can become productive members of society and contribute to national development,” he said.

He added that modern communication tools have made it easier to integrate individuals with certain disabilities into the workforce, citing examples such as deaf persons effectively using digital platforms like email.
As celebrations concluded, stakeholders reiterated the need for collective action to address systemic barriers and ensure that persons with disabilities are not left behind in Uganda’s development agenda.

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GULU – A solemn cloud has descended over the Acholi sub-region and the nation following the passing of Mzee Nathan Okori Adiyo, father of the late former Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Oulanyah.

The 97-year-old patriarch breathed his last on Friday, March 20, 2026, at St Mary’s Hospital Lacor, where he had been admitted with respiratory complications just days earlier.

In a twist that has stirred deep emotion across the country, Mzee Okori died on the exact date his son passed away four years ago. Oulanyah died on March 20, 2022, in Seattle, United States, where he had been undergoing specialised treatment.

The news was first shared by Omoro County MP, Andrew Ojok Oulanyah, who described the moment with poignant simplicity, noting that the family patriarch had “rested on the same day that his son rested.”

From Parliament, Speaker Anita Annet Among led the tributes, informing colleagues and the country of the loss, while Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa described the development as “very sad indeed.”

Mzee Okori, a revered elder in Omoro, lived a quiet but impactful life, standing as the foundation behind one of Uganda’s most prominent political figures. Those close to the family often spoke of a deep, unbreakable bond between father and son—one that, in death, has taken on a haunting symmetry.

As the country reflects on this rare and emotional coincidence, attention now turns to the family for burial arrangements, expected to be announced in due course.

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The world is mourning Chuck Norris, yet the legend tied to his name feels impossible to erase.

Over the years, the American martial arts legend and action movie star built a career rooted in strength, discipline, and presence.

From his early days in martial arts to sharing the screen with Bruce Lee in “The Way of the Dragon,” Norris earned global respect.

Later, his role in “Walker, Texas Ranger” made him a familiar face in homes around the world.

However, as time went on, his name began to take on a life of its own. Soon after, the internet turned Chuck Norris into a myth through hyperbolic “facts.”

As a result, fans began to build a larger story around him.

Chuck Norris does not dodge bullets; bullets dodge Chuck Norris • Chuck Norris can swim up a waterfall • Chuck Norris will never have a heart attack. His heart is not nearly foolish enough to attack him • It only takes Chuck Norris 20 minutes to watch “60 Minutes.” • Before Chuck Norris crosses the street, the cars have to look both ways • Chuck Norris can touch his right elbow with his right hand • Chuck Norris was once run over by a tank. He refused to pay for it • Chuck Norris can single-handedly surround his opponents • Chuck Norris won a 10 minute race after giving his competitors a 10 minute head start • Chuck Norris was bitten by a cobra and after five days of excruciating pain… the cobra died • Ghosts sit around campfires and tell Chuck Norris stories • While learning CPR, Chuck Norris brought the dummy to life • Chuck Norris once fought superman. The loser had to wear his underwear over his pants • When the Boogeyman goes to sleep every night, he checks under his bed for Chuck Norris • When Chuck Norris was born, he drove his parents back home from the hospital • Chuck Norris can hear sign language

Gradually, the image grew stronger. As these lines spread, the man on screen became an idea, something bigger than any role he played.

More importantly, behind the humor sat deep respect. The “facts” worked because people believed in the strength he represented.

Now, as tributes continue to come in, his legacy stands firm through film, television, and cultural moments that continue to resonate.

In the end, Chuck Norris (born Carlos Ray Norris) may be gone, but the legend built around him will keep living on.

Asake has opened up about his relationship with money.

The Nigerian Afrobeats superstar said that beyond the flashy lifestyle, what matters most to him is the freedom money provides.

He explained that while money cannot fix everything, it solves a large part of his problems.

Asake, who enjoys luxury, also shared that he owns five cars in Lagos, even as he spends a lot of time abroad.

For him, wealth is less about showing off and more about living on his own terms.

I love the freedom money gives me. It does not solve all my problems, but it solves 80% of my problems,