Science subjects shouldn’t be a must
Oct 06, 2009
YOUR PLATFORM<br><br>I am writing in response to the story in the New Vision, September 29, titled: ‘Government to overhaul the education curriculum.’
YOUR PLATFORM
I am writing in response to the story in the New Vision, September 29, titled: ‘Government to overhaul the education curriculum.’
I am upset by the experts’ proposal to have a science subject added to any A’ level combination. Does this proposal mean the Government is pushing for science-based programmes?
Subjects are chosen on the basis of a student’s ability, talents, interests and career ambition. On what grounds would you force a student planning to be a lawyer to take on physics? If they are experts they should know the uniqueness of every child and respect their talents and career interests. The fact that the nation needs scientists does not mean every child can be turned into a scientist.
Another issue raised was about the Government’s plan to replace the current ‘content- heavy’ books with ‘easy-to-read’ books. Is this a policy designed to promote examination pamphlets over textbooks? This must be condemned. At this rate we risk producing a generation of exam-oriented people. Extensive reading helps students to be broad minded and builds their vocabulary.
Any attempt at simplifying the curriculum is bound to be counterproductive in the long run.
The education curriculum is the backbone of this nation’s future development. An education curriculum is like a constitution and it should not just be quickly altered.
I recommend an extensive consultation between the stakeholders before any decision regarding the curriculum can be made. If the experts are making some decisions to please the donor community they need to remember that the future of Uganda is at stake. The world will hold them accountable.
- Jimmy Nsereko
Kayunga
What is your take on the Government’s plan to change the Education curriculum? Write to
education@newvision.co.ug
I am writing in response to the story in the New Vision, September 29, titled: ‘Government to overhaul the education curriculum.’
I am upset by the experts’ proposal to have a science subject added to any A’ level combination. Does this proposal mean the Government is pushing for science-based programmes?
Subjects are chosen on the basis of a student’s ability, talents, interests and career ambition. On what grounds would you force a student planning to be a lawyer to take on physics? If they are experts they should know the uniqueness of every child and respect their talents and career interests. The fact that the nation needs scientists does not mean every child can be turned into a scientist.
Another issue raised was about the Government’s plan to replace the current ‘content- heavy’ books with ‘easy-to-read’ books. Is this a policy designed to promote examination pamphlets over textbooks? This must be condemned. At this rate we risk producing a generation of exam-oriented people. Extensive reading helps students to be broad minded and builds their vocabulary.
Any attempt at simplifying the curriculum is bound to be counterproductive in the long run.
The education curriculum is the backbone of this nation’s future development. An education curriculum is like a constitution and it should not just be quickly altered.
I recommend an extensive consultation between the stakeholders before any decision regarding the curriculum can be made. If the experts are making some decisions to please the donor community they need to remember that the future of Uganda is at stake. The world will hold them accountable.
- Jimmy Nsereko
Kayunga
What is your take on the Government’s plan to change the Education curriculum? Write to
education@newvision.co.ug