MICHAEL A
Over 40 government teachers in Ntungamo have applied to leave teaching before reaching retirement age.
In an interview on Monday about the impact of the new curriculum on A-Level education, Ntungamo District Education Officer Denis Ntare revealed that more than 40 teachers have requested to leave classroom duties. He noted, however, that their departure creates opportunities for young graduate teachers to gain experience and secure employment. Ntare added that when such cases arise, the education department reports them to the Service Commission, which quickly recruits new teachers. He attributed the trend to the introduction of the new curriculum, as many teachers are accustomed to the old system and are making way for newly trained teachers.
Ntare explained that teachers are first trained to gain experience and adapt to the new curriculum. Unlike the old system, the new curriculum includes project work where students complete projects that teachers then submit to UNEB. He advised teachers not to award marks for work that students have not completed, emphasizing that this encourages seriousness among learners.
He also highlighted that students are now undertaking practical projects such as running school-based businesses, including bee hives, canteens, and bakeries. In these projects, students retain 20% of the profits under teacher supervision, and the results are submitted to UNEB. While such projects require investment, students are encouraged to use locally available materials whenever possible.
As the second-term holiday approaches, Ntare urged students to use the break productively. He advised parents to monitor the places and groups their children join, ensuring they avoid negative influences. He encouraged engaging children in home and community activities like grazing, weeding, and other practical tasks that stimulate learning and development. Ntare also reminded parents to save money to ensure learners have the necessary school fees and materials for the third term.
