The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has taken a bold and forward-looking step to strengthen grassroots football through the Schools of Excellence Project. This initiative falls under the FUFA Technical Master Plan and the FIFA Talent Identification Scheme.
Following the completion of key preparatory stages, including the seeding of schools and the signing of Memoranda of Understanding, the project now moves from planning into implementation. It is designed to establish a structured pathway for young talent while ensuring a balance between education and elite football development.
At the centre of the initiative is FUFA’s commitment to fully support participating schools. The objective is to create an environment where student-athletes develop into elite footballers both on and off the pitch.
FUFA will take full responsibility for the technical framework of the project by appointing and remunerating qualified technical personnel. These will include head coaches, assistant coaches and fitness trainers, among others. They will oversee implementation and ensure professionalism, structure and consistency in player development. Their support will extend to school teams, strengthening competitive football without placing additional financial demands on the institutions.
Competitive exposure remains a key pillar of the programme. FUFA will guarantee at least one high-profile friendly match annually for each participating school. These matches will feature teams from the Uganda Premier League, FUFA Big League, FUFA Women Super League or national teams. Where possible, fixtures will be hosted at school premises to bring elite football closer to students.
Administrative and developmental support will also be prioritised. FUFA will maintain continuous engagement with schools while investing in capacity building for both technical and administrative staff. This approach will establish sustainable systems that enable institutions to maintain high standards beyond the initial phases of the project. FUFA will also support the improvement and maintenance of football infrastructure to ensure access to quality playing surfaces.
To promote holistic development, FUFA will provide essential resources such as training equipment, scholastic materials and the FUFA Player Development Curriculum. Regular supervision, both on-site and off-site, will ensure consistency and adherence to the required standards across all Schools of Excellence.
Students will also benefit from wider opportunities within the football ecosystem. These will include training and certification in refereeing and other football-related fields, as well as exposure to elite competitions through complimentary access to youth international matches.
During FUFA Holiday Camps, the federation will cover key logistical costs, including utilities and meals, thereby easing the operational burden on host schools.
FUFA will retain exclusive responsibility for determining the sporting merit of players within the project. This will ensure a transparent and merit-based system for player identification, selection and progression.
The success of the initiative will depend on strong collaboration with participating schools. Institutions have committed to providing at least 30 full bursaries to players, covering essential education costs, as well as accommodation, training facilities and a secure football environment. Schools will also facilitate access for FUFA programmes, enabling players to participate in national team activities, academy training and competitions while maintaining a strong emphasis on academic performance and discipline.
The FUFA Schools of Excellence Project represents a long-term investment in the future of Ugandan football. Through this initiative, schools are not only empowered but transformed into key pillars in the country’s football development pathway.
Photos from the signing of Memoranda of Understanding – Wednesday, 15th April 2026
