Uwezo assesses 20,000 learners amid literacy, numeracy concerns

What the report says

Uwezo Uganda is carrying out a nationwide learning assessment involving more than 20,000 children, as educators and researchers continue to raise concerns about weak literacy and numeracy outcomes in primary schools. According to The Observer, the exercise is taking place across 29 districts and covers 435 villages and 10,440 households, with the aim of checking whether children are developing the basic skills needed to progress in education.

The assessment targets learners aged four to 16, while the life skills and values component is being administered to children aged five to 16. Mary Goretti Nakabugo, Uwezo Uganda’s executive director, said the group is also measuring life skills and values alongside foundational learning. The districts named in the report include Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono, Nwoya, Kakumiro, Kamwenge, Lyantonde and Napak.

The report says early findings remain troubling. Uwezo cited a recent survey suggesting that at least 70% of primary school learners in Uganda cannot write adequately, underscoring persistent gaps in foundational learning. Field observations in Kikuube, Napak and Kakumiro also pointed to children in lower primary who struggle to read simple words despite being enrolled.

The article adds that absenteeism remains a major barrier, with some pupils missing school during the rainy season to help with agricultural work. The assessment is intended to inform efforts to improve children’s learning outcomes and strengthen basic educational foundations.