Staff Reporter
Educationists in the Kigezi region have raised concerns about the introduction of the new curriculum by the Ministry of Education and Sports. These concerns were voiced during a consultative meeting organized by the Education Policy Review Commission (EPRC) at Kabale Secondary School in Kabale Municipality, Kabale District.
Derrick Kugumisiriza from Kick Corruption Out of Uganda criticized the government for not adequately planning the transition beyond O-Level in the new curriculum. He noted that the implementation was rushed. Sharifa Nakintu, the Chief Administrative Officer of Rukiga District, added that teachers were not adequately trained for the new curriculum, resulting in them teaching subjects they are unfamiliar with.
Elly Mucunguzi, the Rubanda District Principal Accountant Secretary, called for a reassessment of the curriculum to incorporate vocational skills that would help learners acquire practical skills. He emphasized that many O-Level graduates, unable to afford further education, lack employable skills, making it difficult for them to integrate into society.
Moses Tumuhimbise, the UNATU chairperson for Rukiga District, criticized politicians for formulating education policies without sufficient knowledge, arguing that such policies should be crafted by qualified technical experts, not politicians.
Martin Turyagyenda, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner of Rubanda District, urged the Education Policy Review Commission to ensure that teachers receive better remuneration and that schools are equipped with the necessary resources for an improved learning environment.
Canon Dr. Kedress Turyagyenda, a commissioner on the Education Policy Review Commission, assured participants that the feedback gathered would be included in the final report to ensure Uganda’s education system remains competitive globally.
