Community-Driven Efforts to Enhance Problem-Solving Skills in Ugandan Children
Every Saturday at around 12pm, a gathering takes place in Akongatar ‘B’ Village, Angweta Parish, Iceme Sub-county in Oyam District. This event brings together a diverse group of individuals, including parents, school leaders, teachers, and community figures. They come together with a shared goal: to learn and develop strategies for fostering problem-solving skills in children and young people.
The session begins with a short prayer, followed by a review of the day’s schedule written on a flip chart. The content is presented in both English and Leb Lango, ensuring that all participants can engage meaningfully. These 30 attendees represent a cross-section of the community, reflecting the collective commitment to supporting the next generation.
In the broader East African context, Uganda has been identified as lagging behind its neighbors in terms of problem-solving skills among adolescents. A recent assessment conducted by the Action for Life skills and Values in East Africa (ALiVE) initiative revealed that only a small percentage of young people demonstrated full proficiency in problem-solving, self-awareness, collaboration, and respect. In Uganda, just 3% of adolescents met the standard, compared to higher percentages in other countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar.
To address this gap, ALiVE launched a 10-week parental and community engagement campaign across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zanzibar. The program aims to raise awareness and build the capacity of caregivers to actively support the development of problem-solving skills in children. In Uganda, the campaign has been implemented in several regions, with Oyam District being one of the sampled areas.
Mr. Emmy Zoomlamai Okello, executive director of the Foundation for Inclusive Community Help (FICH), explains that the initiative follows a three-pronged approach. First, it educates parents and guardians on the importance of problem-solving skills. Second, it equips them with practical tools and strategies to foster these skills. Third, it strengthens partnerships between families, schools, and community organizations to create a supportive ecosystem for life skills development.
Ms. Kandi Alum, ALiVE’s parental and community engagement coordinator for Oyam District, emphasizes the critical role of parents in nurturing problem-solving abilities. She highlights that each week, the sessions focus on specific themes designed to guide parents in supporting their children’s growth.
Success Stories from the Field
Participants have reported positive outcomes from the program. For example, during a dialogue held in Akongatar ‘B’ Village, parents shared how they are using technology to enhance problem-solving skills in their children. Some even took steps to purchase smartphones or learn how to use digital tools to support their children’s learning.
Mr. Joseph Owani, a teacher at Angweta Primary School, notes that each session triggers actions among the parents. He observes that they implement what they learn and return with reports, indicating a growing commitment to modeling problem-solving behavior at home.
Mr. Samuel Ojok, a father of four, shares how the program has inspired change. He recounts his own experience of dropping out of school due to financial constraints, but now sees his child striving to pursue higher education. His son has even devised a plan to plant pine trees to generate income for future schooling.
Ms. Albina Odongo, another parent, highlights the transformative impact of the program. She describes it as an eye-opener that has empowered her to guide her children effectively. Darius Opio, a Primary Three student, also mentions that his family has started assigning him responsibilities, helping him develop independence and problem-solving skills.
Integration of Life Skills into Education
Uganda introduced the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in 2020, shifting the educational focus from rote learning to a more skills-oriented framework. The CBC emphasizes competencies that prepare students for real-world challenges, aiming to foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and practical skills. This shift aligns with the goals of the ALiVE initiative, which seeks to equip children with the tools needed to navigate an ever-changing world.
The success of these programs relies on the involvement of key stakeholders, including families, schools, and communities. As the initiative continues to evolve, it is clear that the collaborative efforts of these groups are essential in building a generation capable of overcoming challenges with confidence and creativity.
