Kyambogo University, a stalwart supporter of the Primary Teacher Education Program since 1989, played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the program. The University, in collaboration with the Uganda National Institute of Teacher Education (UNITE) and the National Teacher Council, will remain committed to facilitating a seamless transition in light of the new teacher reforms.
The First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni while officiating at the official release of the 2021 Grade III Teachers’ Certificate in Primary Teacher Education Examination results said that this marked a significant milestone in the journey of 5,576 Grade Three Teachers who undertook their end-of-cycle exams in December 2022. This cohort faced unique challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, standing as the last group admitted after S.4 in 2019, predating the introduction of the National Teacher Policy.
Despite the disruptions, the results bring forth a cause for celebration, revealing an impressive pass rate exceeding 97% in most subjects. The delay in the examination schedule, initially set for December 2021, was a testament to the resilience and adaptability of both students and educators during these challenging times.
The implementation of the National Teacher Policy brought about significant changes, leading to the phased-out closure of 22 primary teacher training colleges. This decision prompted thoughtful repurposing, ensuring that these institutions contribute meaningfully to the evolving educational landscape.
“I would like to express my gratitude to the Leadership and Management of Kyambogo University for their steadfastness in providing the required technical support in the Primary Teacher Education program since 1989. They will closely collaborate with the Uganda National Institute of Teacher Education (UNITE) and the National Teacher Council to ensure a smooth transition following the new teacher reforms.” Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni said.
Hon. Janet Kataaha clarified that several former Teacher Training Colleges are set to become specialized institutions, aligning with the diverse needs of the community. For instance, health training institutions, technical agro-vet institutions, and t-vets training institutes will emerge from this transformation. This strategic repurposing reflects a forward-looking approach to utilizing already existing resources for the benefit of the community.
The Academic Registrar, of Kyambogo University, Dr. Anne Begumisa, highlighted the journey of performance from 2017 to 2020, noting a steady increase in the overall percentage pass. However, a sudden decline in 2021 was observed, attributed to challenges in Mathematics and Kiswahili subjects, compounded by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“There was a steady rise in the overall percentage pass from 2017 to 2020 and a sudden drop in 2021. The decline in overall performance may be attributed to the poor performance in Mathematics and Kiswahili subjects and the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic,” Begumisa said.
At least 5,576 candidates from 55 centers registered to sit the examinations. Of these, 45 centers were government and 10 privately owned PTCs. Out of the 5,576 candidates, only 130 passed with distinction, 3,616 with credits, and 40 got passes. Some 1,586 candidates failed the exams while 204 were ungraded.
The best candidate in the 2021 examinations was Mugisa Tumwine from St Augustine PTC Butiiti in Kyenjonjo who obtained an aggregate of 13 out of the possible 9 in nine subjects and an “A” in school practice.
The overall best female candidate was Zainabu Owokunda from Bikungu PTC in Bushenyi with an aggregate of 14, an “A” in school practice, and an overall “Distinction”.
Buhungiro PTC in Isingiro was the best-performing college with an overall percentage pass of 100%. The least-performing colleges were; Margherita PTC in Kitgum and Iganga-based Noor PTC – all attained an overall pass below 40%.
The Vice-Chancellor, of Kyambogo University, Prof. Eli Katunguka noted that Margherita and Noor PTCs were all privately owned with various challenges as far as staffing, resources, and management are concerned. He urged principals of PTCs across the country to collect their results from the University.
The release of the 2021 Grade III Teachers’ Certificate results not only marks an academic achievement but also reflects the adaptability and resilience of the education sector in the face of unprecedented challenges. As Kyambogo University continues to play a leading role in shaping the future of education in Uganda, we remain dedicated to fostering excellence and embracing positive transformations in teacher education.