Students and educators in Kamwenge district are praising the new competence-based curriculum (CBC) for fostering critical thinking, active participation, and practical skill development over rote memorization.
In 2020, the Ministry of Education and Sports, through the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC), announced a new competency-based curriculum for lower secondary students.
The shift has been described as a way to empower learners with 21st-century skills, leading to improved understanding, with reports of increased candidate engagement and strong performance results.
Key impacts and commendations include:
- Active Learning: Students are actively participating in classes rather than just listening, boosting their comprehension of subjects.
- Skill Development: Teachers report improved critical reasoning and practical skills among learners.
- Practical Focus: The curriculum is seen as a way to align education with practical, real-world needs and future employability.
- Support for Innovation: The new approach aims to nurture creativity and innovation, preparing students to be better prepared for the workforce.
While commendations focus on the positive shift in learning, the government is continuously evaluating the implementation, with plans to strengthen teacher training and provide more resources to support the transition to this new system.
At Green hill secondary school students told our reporter that the skills gained from school will help them start their own projects such as making liquid soap, bakery among others.
Atukunzire Joash the head teacher Green hill high school Head teachers told our reporter that the learners are applying the skills to create employment opportunities.
At St Thomas Aquinas, learners noted that with the new curriculum, they are now equipped with marketable skills in vocational agriculture and information communication.
Victor Arinaitwe the head teacher said that students have learnt hands on skills such as bakery, fertilizers, computer, among others which are best for survival after school.
