Pallisa to pilot literacy and numeracy improvement programme

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Pallisa district is set to pilot a programme aimed at improving literacy and numeracy in government-aided primary schools.

Forty of the 76 schools in the district have been selected for the initiative, which seeks to address learning gaps identified as a major barrier to pupils’ academic progress.

Patrick Mugenyi, regional coordinator for Building Tomorrow, met headteachers of the selected schools after signing a memorandum of understanding with the district leadership.



Mugenyi explained that the programme was introduced in Pallisa because teachers have struggled to handle pupils with varying learning abilities, particularly in Primary Three to Primary Five, who missed key foundations in literacy and numeracy.



Godfrey Okalang, one of the programme facilitators, said the team is in Pallisa to implement the initiative by training teachers, who will in turn train their colleagues. He added that the programme is inclusive and designed to accommodate all learners, regardless of their learning challenges.

John Opedun, the district inspector of schools, said the initiative aims to boost literacy and numeracy levels, especially in rural areas, following an assessment that revealed significant gaps. He appealed to teachers and parents to support the programme.



Some headteachers welcomed the initiative. Alex Akol, Headteacher of Kadesok Primary School, described it as timely, noting that pupils have been struggling with learning gaps. He urged parents to ensure their children attend school regularly and support teachers.

Charles Isaac Orukan, headteacher of Omuroka Primary School, said the 40 selected schools are part of the literacy and numeracy pilot and assured that those not yet included will benefit as the programme expands across the district.