Education
Makerere University Hosts Groundbreaking TELLS Conference on Future Ready Classrooms
Under the theme “Future Ready Classrooms: Technologies and Strategies for Student Success in the 21st Century,” Makerere University recently hosted the third Transformative Education and Lifelong Learning for Sustainable Growth (TELLS) conference, held from August 7-8, 2024. This two-day event emphasized the urgent need for embracing the technological revolution in education to ensure student success in an increasingly digital world.
The TELLS conference is a collaborative effort between Makerere University, Uganda; the University of Rwanda; Jimma University, Ethiopia; and the University of Agder, Norway. This initiative is funded by NORAD under the NORHED II Program (2021-2026).
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Moses Musinguzi, Principal of the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), highlighted Makerere University’s commitment to integrating new innovations in education. He underscored the institution’s dedication to preparing students for life, work, and citizenship, ensuring they contribute to economic and social development, adapt to change, and provide leadership.
“The University’s educational philosophy is rooted in principles of innovation, learner-centeredness, lifelong learning, internationalization, equity and diversity, academic freedom, collaboration, and quality assurance,” Professor Musinguzi stated. He further emphasized the role of the Centre for Lifelong Learning (CLL) in championing continuing and lifelong education on both national and international levels.
Prof. Musinguzi also recognized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the multifaceted challenges and opportunities in education. “The diverse expertise and perspectives gathered here exemplify the power of collaboration. By working together across disciplines, institutions, and borders, we can develop comprehensive solutions that meet the needs of both learners and educators.”
Associate Professor Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Principal of the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) at Makerere University, echoed these sentiments. He emphasized the need for universities to navigate the challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI) in research, teaching, and assessment. “We are in an era of AI, and it is imperative that we carefully consider its impact on academic integrity and the future of education.”
Professor Florien Nsanganwimana, Principal of the College of Education at the University of Rwanda, called for a paradigm shift in educational practices, advocating for the integration of transformative technologies in teaching and learning. “In the 21st century, technology-driven education is essential. We must equip our learners with the competencies they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving world,” he urged.
The conference also featured insights from John Domingue of The Open University in the United Kingdom, who delivered a keynote on “Generative AI and the Future of Education.” He emphasized the potential of AI to revolutionize education and the need for educators to prepare students for a future where AI plays a central role.
The TELLS Project coordinators, Associate Professors Paul Birevu Muyinda from Makerere University and Ghislain Maurice N. Isabwe from the University of Agder, Norway, highlighted the project’s achievements, including workshops, policy reviews, and collaborative research efforts. They also addressed challenges such as the digital divide, budget constraints, and security concerns across partner universities.
As the conference concluded, participants were reminded of the transformative power of education and the need for continuous innovation in teaching and learning. The TELLS conference has set the stage for future collaborations aimed at harnessing technology to enhance education and lifelong learning in Africa and beyond.
Education
The 3rd East African Teacher Education Symposium: Curriculum development and decolonization of education in East Africa
By Latifah Nalubowa
The School of Education recently welcomed a group of Senior 6 students from Mbogo High School for an insightful career development session aimed at guiding them towards informed decisions about their future careers. The session, chaired by Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke, featured discussions led by his colleagues Ms. Joanna Kayaga and Mr. Kansiime Edward.
Dr. Kiggundu opened the session by warmly welcoming the students and introducing the faculty members present. He engaged the students in a thought-provoking discussion on the noble profession of teaching. Highlighting the respect teachers command in society, their role in shaping future generations, and their commitment to truth and integrity, Dr. Kiggundu underscored the significant impact of educators. He also provided an overview of the various courses offered by the School of Education and emphasized how education serves as a foundational pillar for a successful life.
Following this, Dr. Kiggundu invited Dr. Kansiime to elaborate on the specific courses available within the Department of Science, Technology and Vocational Education and the prerequisites for admission. Dr. Kansiime detailed the course offerings and stressed the importance of aligning course selection with career goals. He highlighted that making informed choices can greatly influence the students’ academic and professional trajectories.
Dr. Kiggundu then focused on the Department of Languages, explaining the diverse programs offered, including Luganda, English, Lusoga, Arabic, and more. He emphasized that teaching is not only a respected profession but also one that offers various income-generating opportunities.
Ms. Kayaga contributed by advising the students to carefully consider their subject combinations, as some might not meet the requirements for admission into international universities. She explained the application process, including how to apply online, and warned against misleading information. Ms. Kayaga directed the students to visit Makerere University’s website (www.mak.ac.ug) (www.cees.mak.ac.ug ) for more detailed information.
The session concluded with heartfelt gratitude expressed by Madam Nabunya, a teacher from Mbogo High School. She thanked the lecturers for their valuable advice and insights, which she believed would greatly benefit the students in making well-informed career choices.
The career development session was a successful initiative by the School of Education, providing Mbogo High School students with the guidance and knowledge needed to navigate their future academic and professional paths.
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