By Our Reporter
KAMPALA - River Flow International (RIFI) has awarded Tumutungirehi James, a teacher at Nyakabungo Primary School in Sheema District, a cash voucher worth UGX 1 million for emerging as the overall winner of the Christmas Science Challenge 2024. The competition, held from December 10 to December 20, 2024, attracted nine participants who demonstrated innovation and practical science teaching skills using RIFI’s educational materials. Tumutungirehi’s winning entry, a video showcasing an electric circuit experiment, earned over 6,000 reactions—likes, shares, and comments—on RIFI’s social media platforms. 
MD Riverflow international, Mr Simuka Mohammed (left) awards a dummy checque to Mr James
Recognizing excellence
Second place was awarded to Amumpaire Brenda from Little Angels Nursery and Primary School, whose entry garnered over 5,000 reactions. Atwijukire Ronald from Bugongi Central Primary School (Sheema) and Kabusa Diana from Murari Primary School secured third and fourth positions, respectively. Each runner-up received a Christmas hamper in recognition of their efforts.
While awarding the winner, RIFI Managing Director Mr. Simuka Mohammed praised the participants for their dedication to enhancing science education. “This challenge highlights the incredible talent and creativity of our teachers. By utilizing RIFI’s materials, you have inspired learners and elevated science education in Uganda,” he stated.
Tumutungirehi James receives his shopping voucher cheque worth 1 million
Participation
The Christmas Science Challenge was open to science teachers who use RIFI’s educational tools. Participants competed in two categories:
Primary Teachers: Created two-minute science videos or experiments using items from RIFI’s Science Kit.
Secondary Teachers: Produced videos demonstrating concepts from Senior 1 Biology, Chemistry, or Physics Lab Instructional Manuals through simple experiments.
Videos were uploaded to RIFI’s social media platforms, and winners were determined by the highest number of combined reactions. To qualify for the grand prize, entries needed to secure a minimum of 1,000 reactions.
James with Stuart Nabaasa head of science and innovation at Riverflow International
Gratitude
In his acceptance speech, Tumutungirehi James expressed his gratitude to RIFI and called upon fellow teachers to participate in similar initiatives. “I am deeply honored by this award and appreciate RIFI for organising this impactful challenge. Such opportunities help us improve science education and inspire learners,” he said.
He also commended the Ministry of Education under the leadership of First Lady Hon. Maama Janet Museveni for supporting initiatives that promote science education and address societal challenges.
River Flow International continues to champion competency-based education and practical learning approaches, equipping educators with tools to transform science education across Uganda.
About River Flow International
River Flow International is a key advocate for Competency-Based Education (CBE) in Africa, striving to shift away from rote learning to a more practical, learner-centered approach. The organization develops innovative teaching and learning materials, including the mini-laboratory for primary schools, which enables practical science lessons in institutions lacking laboratory facilities. The mini-laboratory kit equips teachers with essential tools to demonstrate key scientific concepts interactively, making science fun and engaging for learners.
The Minister for Kampala, Hon. Minsa Kabanda, recently visited an exhibition by River Flow International
Impact of the challenge
This year’s Christmas Science Challenge highlighted the transformative potential of interactive science teaching. It not only rewarded the participants but also showcased how practical tools and innovative methods can inspire a love for science among learners.
“By using activity-based and learner-centered teaching aids, we are preparing students for lifelong learning and problem-solving,” said Mr. Muhammed during the ceremony.
RIFI plans to continue organizing similar initiatives to support the integration of competency-based science education in schools across Uganda.
Torch Media Africa
