Written By | Peter Luzinda
Mr. Nebert Nagaba, Science Outreach Officer at River Flow International, demonstrates the circulatory system to teachers during a hands-on training session in Kassanda District
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Kassanda
Science education in Kassanda District has received a significant boost following a comprehensive teacher training conducted by River Flow International to enhance the effective use of Primary Science Kits.
The district, located in central Uganda approximately 110 kilometres west of Kampala, was among 31 districts selected to benefit from Phase Five of the national Primary Science Kit rollout by the Ministry of Education and Sports.
To ensure the materials are used effectively in classrooms, 60 primary science teachers from 20 beneficiary schools participated in a hands-on capacity-building workshop facilitated by River Flow International experts.
Mr. Wasswa Authuman (standing) engages teachers who are attentively seated during a Primary Science Kit training session in Kassanda District
Speaking during the training, Mr Sserukenya Alex, Deputy Headteacher at Mirembe Primary School, said the workshop had strengthened teachers’ confidence in handling the equipment.
“These materials contain many concepts and tangible items that help pupils learn better when they see and touch what is being taught. The workshop has enabled us to use them effectively. We are going to employ them to make an impact so that our pupils achieve more,” he said.
He added that the real objects provided in the kits will improve learners’ memory retention, imagination, and critical thinking skills, while also nurturing practical abilities that could influence their future career choices.
Some of the teachers during the training session
Ms Namyalo Dezzy, Headteacher of Kasekere Primary School, noted that although some teachers were familiar with the equipment, many lacked practical knowledge on how to use it effectively.
“The district has done well to organise this workshop. We have learned a lot, especially how to use some of the equipment. We are going to improve because our teachers have attended this training,” she said.
Teacher Rose Nakajubi of Kassanda Primary School expressed excitement after gaining practical skills in using a microscope.
“I was eager to learn how to use a microscope, and now I have gained that skill,” she said.
Teachers engage with models from River Flow International
The District Education Officer (DEO), Mr Wasswa Authuman, described the training as a timely initiative aimed at upgrading and updating teachers’ knowledge.
“It is through such avenues that we upgrade knowledge. I am not saying teachers did not have the knowledge, but we are updating and improving it,” he noted.
Mr. Wasswa Authuman, DEO Kassanda
He commended the River Flow International team, particularly Mr Nebert Nagaba and Ms Margret Olore, for facilitating the training and urged teachers to prioritise learner engagement.
“When you go back, do not just say the microscope is there and you will show it later. Engage the learners. Enhance learner engagement,” he emphasised.
Practical Session: Teachers actively connect electricity models to generate light, applying hands-on skills during the training session in Kassanda District
Education stakeholders believe that increased experimentation, observation, and demonstration in classrooms will foster a deeper understanding of science concepts among pupils.
With teachers now better equipped to integrate practical learning into their lessons, Kassanda District is poised to witness improved academic performance and stronger foundational skills in science education.
Torch Media Africa
