By Owek. Patrick Katende Ateenyi
In the lush landscapes of Bunyoro and throughout Uganda, a troubling trend has surfaced within the education system. Disturbing reports have emerged of certain schools that deliberately fail to register students for UNEB (Uganda National Examinations Board) exams if they suspect these students won’t achieve a coveted “first division” grade. They therefore opt to register them in other schools. This unscrupulous practice has far-reaching consequences, both for the students involved and for the overall educational landscape of the country. It’s high time that the Government of Uganda, particularly the Ministry of Education, steps in to address this issue and safeguard the well-being of our children.
The drive for academic excellence is, without a doubt, a commendable pursuit. However, when it comes at the expense of the emotional and psychological well-being of students, it becomes a matter of grave concern. By denying students the opportunity to sit for their UNEB exams, these schools are inflicting severe psychological and emotional trauma on them. The pressure to excel in academics is already substantial, and this cruel act exacerbates the stress and anxiety that many students face during their school years.
But the dangers of this practice go beyond the immediate emotional toll. When schools prioritize their reputation over the welfare of their students, they perpetuate a culture of fear and anxiety. Students live in constant fear of falling short of the school’s high expectations, and this fear can stifle their creativity, critical thinking, and personal development. Moreover, it creates a skewed perception of success that is solely based on academic achievement, ignoring the diverse talents and potential of each student.
The implications of this practice extend to a broader societal level. We risk nurturing a generation of individuals who equate self-worth solely with their academic grades, overlooking qualities like empathy, resilience, and adaptability that are equally crucial in the real world. This could ultimately hinder the nation’s progress by producing a workforce that excels academically but struggles to navigate the complexities of the professional world.
The Government of Uganda, and particularly the Ministry of Education, has a crucial role to play in eradicating this harmful practice. They must enforce regulations that make it mandatory for every student to have the opportunity to sit for UNEB exams, regardless of their academic standing. Schools must be held accountable for any actions that jeopardize the emotional and psychological well-being of their students.
In conclusion, we must champion the cause of our students’ well-being and development. Academic excellence should not come at the cost of their mental and emotional health. It’s time to put an end to the ruthless treatment of children in pursuit of academic glory and to embrace a more holistic approach to education, one that values and nurtures every facet of a student’s potential. Only then can we build a brighter future for Uganda, where our children are not just academically excellent but also emotionally resilient and well-rounded individuals.
