Uganda's education system could be on the brink of a major transformation if a recent proposal by the Education Policy Review Commission (EPRC) is implemented.
The commission has suggested scrapping the Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) and reducing the duration of primary education. These changes are aimed at streamlining the education system, ensuring all learners complete basic education, and improving overall learning outcomes among which some key proposals by the EPRC are.
- Eliminating PLE and Implementing Continuous Assessment
The proposal recommends doing away with PLE, which has traditionally served as a transition point between primary and secondary education. Instead, school-based continuous assessment will be introduced to determine students' progress, eliminating the pressure associated with a single high-stakes examination. - Reducing Primary Education from Seven to Six Years
Currently, Uganda's education structure consists of seven years of primary education, but the EPRC suggests cutting it down to six years. The aim is to ensure students complete basic education faster and progress seamlessly into secondary school. - Introducing an 11-Year Universal Basic Education (UBE) System
The proposed system will comprise:- One year of pre-primary education
- Six years of primary education
- Four years of lower secondary education
This structure ensures all learners receive a standardized education, leading to an assessment at the end of the 11 years instead of PLE. - New Certification System
Under the proposed system, learners will receive the Uganda Certificate of Basic Education and Training (UCBET) after completing lower secondary education. Those who proceed to advanced secondary education will then take the Uganda Certificate of Advanced Education and Training (UCAET). - Government-Funded Pre-Primary Education
The report highlights the need for at least one year of government-provided pre-primary education. This will help address issues such as class repetition due to early enrollment and improve literacy and numeracy skills among young learners.
Impact of These Decisions
Potential Benefits
- Reduced Examination Pressure: With PLE removed, students will no longer have to endure intense exam-related stress at a young age, which can affect their academic performance and mental health.
- Increased Access to Secondary Education: The automatic progression to secondary school ensures that all learners complete basic education, reducing dropout rates.
- Better Skill Development: Continuous assessment will provide a more comprehensive evaluation of a student's abilities rather than a single test determining their academic future.
- Improved Early Learning: Government-supported pre-primary education will give young children a strong foundation before they start formal schooling.
Possible Challenges
- Quality Assurance: Without a national examination like PLE, maintaining uniform education standards across all schools may become difficult.
- Resource Constraints: Implementing continuous assessment and restructuring the education system will require additional funding, teacher training, and infrastructural improvements.
- Public Perception and Resistance: Many parents and stakeholders have grown accustomed to the PLE system. Transitioning to a new format may face resistance due to concerns over credibility and effectiveness.
The Ministry of Education and Sports is currently reviewing the recommendations before making a final decision.
If approved, the reforms will require legislative backing, infrastructure adjustments, and widespread sensitization among teachers, students, and parents.
Uganda's education system has long been in need of modernization. While the proposed changes present both opportunities and challenges, they could mark a significant step toward a more inclusive and effective education system.What are your thoughts on this proposal
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