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Uganda Convenes High-Level Policy Dialogue on Education for Peace
In a critical step towards strengthening education's role in fostering peace and development, Uganda's Ministry of Education and Sports, along with key partners, convened a two-day High-Level Policy Dialogue on Education. This significant event, held from 12 to 13 June, 2024, at the Office of the President Conference Hall in Kampala, featured participation from UNESCO and other key education stakeholders. The dialogue built upon a series of pre-event activities celebrating the International Day of Education 2024, including exhibitions and celebrations on 20 and 21 March, respectively.
The High-Level Policy Dialogue aimed to address critical educational issues and promote collaborative efforts to enhance education in Uganda. It brought together a diverse range of experts and stakeholders in the education sector, including policymakers, academia, civil society organizations, development partners, local government representatives, private sector players, and key government entities.
Over the past 30 years, the Ugandan government has prioritized education, recognizing that quality education equips individuals with the knowledge and skills needed for employment, fosters tolerance, and contributes significantly to the country's economic growth and development.
The Third-Deputy Prime Minister of Uganda and the Minister for East African Community Affairs Hon. Rebecca Kadaga officially opened the two-day event on behalf of the Vice President of Uganda. In her opening remarks, Kadaga emphasized the importance of education in achieving lasting peace, particularly in light of the high refugee influx and associated burdens within the African continent. She called on Africa to change the prevailing narratives and present a more positive and hopeful picture of the continent's future.
Education is a cornerstone for building inclusive societies and sustainable peace.
UNESCO National Professional Officer Charles Draecabo, delivered a joint statement from UNESCO and UNICEF and highlighted the pivotal role of education in fostering inclusive, democratic, and participatory governance. Draecabo praised African governments for their leadership during the Transforming Education Summit, where solutions for achieving equitable and quality education for all by 2030 were discussed.
The opening sessions of the dialogue featured remarks from various stakeholders, followed by a technical paper presentation by the Executive Director of the National Planning Authority. Titled "Education for Lasting Peace," the paper aligned with contemporary educational needs and societal demands in Uganda. The presentation underscored the alarming statistic that 41% of Ugandan youth are neither in school nor employed, highlighting the urgent need for systemic strengthening across all levels. (Source: Uganda National Planning Authority)
Key discussion points during the event included education financing and Education in Emergencies (EiE) interventions. A panel discussion on EiE focused on transitioning and financing education services, addressing the complexities of providing education in crisis contexts. The highlight of the dialogue was the student-led panel, where learners from refugee host communities shared their experiences of displacement, life in refugee settlements, and the transition process. These narratives highlighted the critical role of education in providing stability and hope in the midst of conflict and displacement.
