The Ministry of Education has issued a firm directive to parents across Uganda as the new school term approaches refrain from providing mobile phones to students.
This warning comes amid ongoing debates about integrating mobile phones into the new curriculum.
As schools across Uganda prepare to reopen, the Ministry of Education has issued a stern reminder to parents, urging them not to provide mobile phones to students despite recent calls for their inclusion in the new curriculum.
Dr. John Chrysestom Muyingo, the State Minister for Higher Education, emphasized the ministry’s position, stating that a final decision on the matter has not yet been made.
“We urge parents to adhere to the current guidelines and not provide phones to students until we conclude our review,” Dr. Muyingo stated, underscoring the ministry’s concern for maintaining discipline and ensuring that students remain focused on their studies.
The debate over allowing mobile phones in schools has intensified, particularly with the introduction of a new curriculum that some argue could benefit from the integration of digital learning tools. However, the ministry remains cautious, citing potential distractions and the need to carefully consider the implications of such a policy change.
Dr. Muyingo has directed schools to conduct thorough checks on students as they return for the new term. Schools are expected to be vigilant, ensuring that no student brings a mobile phone into the classroom.
Parents and guardians are urged to cooperate with the ministry’s directive, with Dr. Muyingo assuring them that the ministry is actively deliberating on the issue. “We will provide a final answer in due course,” he said, adding that the ministry will continue to monitor the situation closely.
As the debate continues, the Ministry of Education’s stance highlights a delicate balance between embracing technological advancements in education and preserving the traditional focus on discipline and academic rigor.
