The Jinja City education department is planning to conduct mock examinations for all schools in the city, mirroring the standards of the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB). This initiative aims to elevate education standards and improve examination performance.

Paul Baliraine Mugaju, the Jinja City Education Officer (CEO), stated that these standardized examinations will replicate the primary Leaving Examinations (PLE). The program may extend to other parts of Busoga, a region known for its historical prominence in education.

Purpose and Structure of the Mock exams

the mock examinations are designed as practice tests that simulate the format, content, and structure of actual standardized tests. These exams help students prepare for the real examination by familiarizing them with the exam format, identifying their strengths and weaknesses, and building their confidence.

According to education officials, the primary goals of these mock examinations are to:

• Assess student readiness for the actual examination.
• Identify knowledge gaps that need betterment.
• Build confidence among students by simulating the exam experience.
• Improve overall performance through targeted support.

“…we envisage a Jinja City that will return to hit headlines in media channels as one of the academic powerhouses in the country…”

Paul baliraine explained that these mock examinations, scheduled for the last week of the second term, represent a meaningful step towards enhancing education standards in Jinja City.He noted that local teachers will set the examinations, with external firms handling printing, distribution, invigilation, and supervision. A central marking center will be established at a designated venue, with the Jinja City Council funding the entire exercise.

The education department’s focus is on enhancing subject and language competencies to ensure students are well-prepared for their future roles in society. Baliraine highlighted the positive relationships and collaborations among headteachers, teachers, and other stakeholders, which have contributed to several success stories.

The department has organized various meetings, retreats, and seminars to address issues and propose solutions in line with the Ministry of Education and Sports policies.This collaborative approach aims to create a conducive habitat for learning and teaching.

Improved Teacher Preparedness

A key achievement has been the improvement in teacher preparedness. Unlike previous years, teachers in Jinja City now create schemes of work and lesson plans for at least 12 weeks, equivalent to one term. This enhanced readiness is expected to substantially improve the quality of education in the city.

Baliraine mentioned that headteachers have set individual targets for their schools to improve PLE performance this year. He quoted Linda darling Hammond, stating, “…Teachers who are enthusiastic about what they teach and who care about the welfare of their students can inspire students to become enthusiastic about learning…”

The education department has also observed a significant increase in student enrollment in most schools, which they attribute to the renewed energy and motivation among headteachers and teachers.

Previously, teachers and headteachers faced intimidation and threats from unnamed officials at City Hall, leading to early retirements. Though, constructive engagements have emphasized the importance of professional collaboration, leading to a positive change in this trend.

Baliraine urged all stakeholders, especially parents, to actively participate in their children’s education, emphasizing that education is a shared responsibility. He also called on teachers to adhere to the principles of access, retention, and completion, ensuring every child has access to quality education.

Access involves ensuring that every child of school-going age is admitted to school. Retention focuses on creating a conducive environment that motivates learners to stay in school, including providing sanitary facilities, clean water, clean classrooms, and supportive teaching staff. Completion aims to ensure that pupils complete their primary education cycle, up to Primary 7 (P7).

challenges and the Way Forward

Baliraine acknowledged that some parents and guardians hold negative attitudes towards education, viewing it as a waste of time due to unemployment. He stressed the need to change this mindset and recognize the value of education in shaping the future of children.

He emphasized that while some graduates face employment challenges, education remains crucial for personal and national development, equipping individuals with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to contribute to the economy and society.

As Jinja City’s education department continues its efforts to achieve excellence, investing in education is seen as vital for building a brighter future.