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Consultation with Teacher Trainers on Internship Programming in Uganda
On 14 May, 2024, Uganda's National Teacher Council hosted a one-day event to address the implementation of internships in the Teacher Education and Training system, aligned with the National Teacher Policy (NTP, 2019). Despite aiming to professionalize and standardize teaching, this policy has encountered challenges, underscoring the need for robust discussions and stakeholder engagement.
Supported by UNESCO, the event convened over 100 teacher educators to facilitate dialogue and information sharing. The goal was to ensure a comprehensive understanding and effective implementation of the policy's guidelines, fostering stakeholder input to refine the Internship Program's rollout.
The Commissioner of the Teacher Education and Training Department, Max Okiror, and Charles Draecabo, the National Senior Projects Coordinator at the UNESCO Project Office made speeches. While, Draecabo encouraged teachers to embrace the ongoing reforms in the education sector driven by the National Teacher Policy; Okiror, emphasized the importance of standardization.
Standardizing and professionalizing the teaching profession will greatly enhance the sector, ensuring better outcomes for educators and students alike.
The internship programme for teacher trainees: Bridging theory and practice
The internship programme for teacher trainees in Uganda bridges theoretical knowledge and practical application, allowing trainees to apply their skills in real-world settings. Under the new framework, the National Teacher Policy extends the bachelor's degree in education to four years, dedicating the final year to internship, ensuring trainees gain hands-on experience.
Teacher trainees must complete internships as a pre-condition for registration. A degree in education and completion of an internship program are required for teacher registration. This requirement underscores the importance of practical training in enhancing the quality and effectiveness of teaching in Uganda.
