GIDEON T
Secondary school administrators in Greater Kabale have raised concerns over the implementation of the newly introduced abridged A-Level curriculum, citing challenges such as inadequate teacher orientation, insufficient learning materials, and a lack of retooling for educators.
A survey conducted across schools in Kabale, Rubanda, and Rukiga districts revealed that the transition to the revised curriculum has encountered significant gaps, with teachers struggling to adapt due to limited training.
Pamela Kamwesiga, the Director of Studies at Kigezi College Butobere, highlighted the pressing need for specialized training for teachers, particularly those who have previously only taught A-Level subjects under the old curriculum. She emphasized the necessity of textbooks tailored to the new syllabus, calling on the government to supply these resources to facilitate effective teaching.
Meanwhile, Amon Mwesigye Byaruhanga, the headteacher of Kabale Secondary School, expressed concern over the lack of clarity regarding examination structures under the new curriculum. He noted that the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC) had initially assured schools that the curriculum would not change significantly, but certain modifications have since been introduced. Byaruhanga urged the NCDC to provide clear guidelines on the number and format of examination papers to ensure that teachers can adequately prepare students.
On a more optimistic note, George Aturebiire Tumusiime, the headteacher of Hornby High School, stated that the curriculum changes are not entirely new to students and that his school is well-prepared for its implementation. However, he acknowledged the need for refresher courses to enhance teachers’ understanding of the new methodologies, ensuring a smooth transition to the updated syllabus.
In addition to curriculum-related challenges, Akampurira Abraham, the headteacher of Kigezi High School, pointed out infrastructural concerns, particularly overcrowding in libraries and computer labs due to high student demand. He called on the government to improve learning facilities to accommodate all students effectively.
Amos Ahimbisibwe, the headteacher of Bubare Secondary School, provided a different perspective, stating that his school is actively engaging with the NCDC and the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) for orientation on the new curriculum. However, he acknowledged that many teachers are still struggling to adapt to the changes and require further support.
As the implementation process continues, school heads across the region are urging education authorities to provide clear guidelines, sufficient learning materials, and comprehensive teacher training to ensure the successful rollout of the abridged A-Level curriculum.
