Ugandan teachers making a difference off to Ireland

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The sixth cohort of the Teachers Making a Difference initiative departed for Ireland on Friday, thanks to a collaborative effort between the Irish Embassy, Vision Group, Travel Care and the Ministry of Education and Sports.

The delegation includes eleven teachers; winners from the 2022 and 2023 cohorts, along with three staff members from the embassy and three representatives from the education ministry.

The teachers making their entry to the Embassy of Ireland where they were briefed and flagged off to Entebbe International Airport. (Photo by Maria Wamala)

During a briefing held at the new Irish Embassy offices, Vision Group’s Deputy Managing Director Officer, Gervase Ndyanabo, urged the teachers to make the most of the opportunity.

"While on this trip, understand the importance of exposure and use it to transform your profession. Take advantage of this experience, learn from it, and return to implement the knowledge you've gained," Ndyanabo encouraged.

Mathias Kidon, the headmaster of Kalatom Primary School in Napak District receiving his travel documents at the Embassy of Ireland. (Photo by Maria Wamala)

Ambassador of Ireland to Uganda Kevin Colgan echoed this sentiment, advising the teachers to represent Uganda well during their time abroad.

“Be ambassadors of Uganda by sharing information about the country and its people with those you meet. Let them know where you're from and the good things happening in Uganda,” Colgan said.

Benah Siminyu, Headteacher, Mugulu High School receiving her travel documents at the Embassy of Ireland. (Photo by Maria Wamala)

The trip is part of an ongoing initiative aimed at promoting high-quality education through peer exchange.

Travel Care, a partner of the program since 2017, covered all logistical expenses to ensure the trip’s success.

Declan Peppard, Managing Director of Travel Care, promised the teachers an exciting journey, including a visit to the scenic Glendalough Valley in the Wicklow Mountains National Park, one of Ireland's most preserved heritage sites.

Speaking to New Vision, Oscar Ntwantwa, head teacher of Rwamwanja Secondary School in Kamwenge district, shared his hopes for the trip.

"My school struggles with students dropping out, especially those from refugee backgrounds who find it difficult to settle. I aim to learn how Irish schools keep students engaged and prevent early marriages," Ntwantwa explained.

Teachers waving good bye before their study trip to Ireland. (Photo by Maria Wamala)

Benna Siminyu, head teacher of Mugulu High School in Butaleja, also has high expectations.

"Our education system tends to produce job seekers rather than entrepreneurs. I hope to discover how Ireland’s education system promotes economic empowerment, so I can apply those lessons back in Uganda,” Siminyu said.