The Impact of Free Textbooks on School Attendance Rates in Ugandan Primary Schools: A Policy Evaluation Study

The implementation of free textbooks in Ugandan primary schools has been a focal point for educational policy reform aimed at increasing school attendance rates among children. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys, interviews with teachers and parents, and analysis of enrollment records from selected schools in urban and rural areas. Results indicated an increase of 15% in school attendance rates among students who received free textbooks compared to those without access. The provision of free textbooks appears to be a promising strategy for enhancing educational participation, though logistical issues related to textbook distribution need further attention. Schools should prioritise equitable distribution of textbooks and consider additional support services to sustain the benefits observed during initial implementation phases.