The vice-chancellor of UNICAF University, Prof. George William Nasinyama, has urged institutions of learning to consider non-formal education while teaching children.

The former head of the Makerere University Veterinary Department made the appeal during the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award at Acorns International School, Kampala.

“Non-formal education builds a holistic child because it enables the child to know the reality of life and that is why I urge institutions to emulate Acorns International School,” he said. 

The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is an achievement award inspiring young people to discover and reach their full potential in a bid to prepare them for life and work by involving them in non-formal education activities.

The award was started in the United Kingdom in 1956 by Prince Phillip and is now in over 130 countries and territories.

48 students completed their bronze level of the award after engaging in voluntary community service, skills development, sports, and adventurous journey activities over a period of six months.

The participants went to Kapchorwa to undertake their adventurous journey and voluntary community service activities. 

They now progress to the silver level which will take them an additional 12 months. 

The award emphasises learning out of the classroom, preparing young people for life and work. 

Katende Mukiibi, the national director of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Uganda, encouraged the awardees to carry on the skills and activities they have learned through the bronze level for the country and world need such skillsets now more than ever before. 

Shirin Bagchi, the head of the secondary school at Acorns, emphasised the school’s commitment to preparing holistic students for both academic and non-formal education.