Education Leaders Urge Schools to Balance Academics With Skills and Moral Values

What the report says

Education and religious leaders in Uganda are urging a broader approach to schooling that goes beyond exam results and formal qualifications. In comments reported by Nile Post, they said children need practical skills, discipline and moral guidance to be better prepared for adulthood, employment and responsible citizenship.

Former East African Legislative Assembly legislator Fred Mukasa Mbidde warned that social media has made it easier for popularity to be confused with knowledge, and said children should be helped to distinguish reliable information from misleading content. He also encouraged parents to keep young people engaged in productive activities during school holidays rather than spending too much time online.

Pastor Wilson Bugembe of Worship House Nansana said academic success should not come at the expense of character and spiritual upbringing. He made the remarks at a prayer and dedication service for candidates at Train Up a Child Primary Schools and Hillside High School. Pastor Peter Mutebi Mwesigwa, the schools’ director, echoed the call for discipline and said 347 candidates were expected to sit examinations this year.

Dr Judith Nalukwago Lukwago, Kampala City Hall Executive Secretary for Education, Gender and Health, said private schools remain important in Uganda’s education system and called for stronger government support, better teacher training and improved licensing conditions. She also said the competence-based curriculum should build practical abilities such as financial literacy and creative skills, alongside social responsibility.