By Melanie Joyce Nabukwasi
As Uganda prepares to commemorate its 61st Independence Day on October 9th, 2023, the nation reflects on the transformative journey of its education system since gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1962.
Mr. Laston Sempa, an esteemed educationist and the director of Trinity Junior School in Kamuli District, as well as the Minister for Education in the obwa Kyabazinga for Bugabula chiefdom, sheds light on the profound changes that have shaped Uganda’s education landscape over the past six decades.
Sempa begins by acknowledging the challenges that persist, including the country’s continued reliance on foreign funding for its education sector. However, he emphasizes the strides made in advancing the education system towards its desired goals.
Sempa highlights: “Since gaining independence, Uganda’s education system has undergone significant transformations. While we still depend on foreign aid, we’ve made substantial progress in enhancing the quality of education.”
He goes on to explain that one of the most notable changes is the expansion of educational opportunities for Ugandan youth. “Access to education has improved significantly. We’ve seen a surge in the number of schools, both public and private, across the country. This has opened doors for more students to pursue their dreams.”
“We’ve adapted our educational framework to meet the changing needs of our society. Modern teaching techniques, technology integration, and a focus on skills development are now integral parts of our education system.” Laston Sempa.
However, Sempa acknowledges the challenges that remain, particularly in terms of infrastructure and teacher training. “While we’ve made great strides, there is still work to be done. We need to invest more in infrastructure and provide better training for our teachers to ensure quality education.”
The commitment to improving the education system, expanding access, and adapting to contemporary needs demonstrates Uganda’s determination to build a brighter future for its youth.
Uganda will hold its 61st Independence day celebrations in Kitgum District next week, it is not only a celebration of the past but also a testament to Uganda’s ongoing journey towards educational excellence and progress.
