National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC) has conducted in-service training for science teachers and laboratory technicians from Northern Uganda.
At least 70 science teachers and laboratory technicians from the region participated in the five-day training, held at Sacred Heart SS in Gulu City from 9th to 13th December, 2024.
The training covered several topics, including: calibration, reading and repair of laboratory tools; preparation of reagents, safety, improvisation, and ICT integration, to mention but a few.
During the opening session, the Director NCDC, Dr Grace Baguma, said the training was meant to equip science teachers and laboratory technicians with relevant skills in handling and maintenance of school laboratory equipment.
“Science subjects (Chemistry, Biology and Physics) in particular require skills in manipulation of specially designed apparatus to perform experiments and also do projects that help learners to understand better what has been introduced to them theoretically. This requires the science teachers and laboratory technicians to be well-skilled in proper use and maintenance of such equipment,” Dr Baguma stated in a virtual address.
Participants were drawn from some of the least performing schools in the Northern region of Uganda, including Gulu, Omoro, Apac, Lira and Kitgum districts.
As part of the institution’s mandate, NCDC organises and conducts in-service courses of instruction for the acquisition of knowledge and professional skill. The Science and Technology Equipment Production Department (STEPD) of NCDC is responsible for the production of teaching and learning materials e.g. potentiometers, quadrats, test tube racks, assorted laboratory glassware, meter rulers, blackboard sets and furniture of all kinds.
STEPD is also charged with repair of laboratory apparatus e.g. glassware, stop clocks, meters, microscopes, balances, as well as training of in-service science teachers and laboratory technicians and carrying out research and development in the areas of design and production of educational equipment (prototypes).
The coordinator of the training, also Manager of STEPD, Fred Galiwango, encouraged schools to contact NCDC for support in production, sourcing and repair of laboratory equipment.
During the closing ceremony, the Deputy Director, Dr Richard Irumba encouraged science teachers and laboratory technicians to improvise and use locally available materials to teach science, physical education and other subjects.
