Holiday Coaching in Uganda: A Double-Edged Sword for Students and Parents

Holiday coaching sessions, often referred to as ‘Term X’, have become a contentious issue in Uganda’s education system. Many schools mandate these extra lessons during holidays, placing a considerable strain on parents’ finances and students’ well-being. For parents like Ms. Anyango, juggling tuition fees and the cost of holiday classes, often exceeding Shs600,000, presents a significant challenge.

The Ministry of Education and Sports has repeatedly cautioned against, and even banned, holiday coaching, emphasizing the need for students to rest and recharge. Despite these directives, the practice persists, particularly before national examinations. Education Minister Dr. Chrysostom Muyingo recently reiterated the call to end these sessions, threatening severe penalties for non-compliance.

Parents often feel compelled to enroll their children in holiday coaching out of fear that they will fall behind their peers, even though they acknowledge the potential for burnout. The costs extend beyond tuition, encompassing transportation for day scholars and internet access or devices for online lessons.

Some educators, like Mr. Joshua Ewo, deputy headteacher at Fr. Aloysius Secondary School, argue that ‘Term X’ provides essential opportunities for students to consolidate learning and refine their understanding of difficult topics. He suggests that providing accommodation during holidays helps students focus away from domestic distractions.

However, experts warn that the relentless academic pressure can lead to exhaustion and negatively impact mental health. Mr. Patrick Kaboyo, Executive Director of COUPSTA, attributes the prevalence of holiday coaching to a curriculum that prioritizes exam scores over competencies. He believes that the shift to a Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC), currently being rolled out by the government, may eventually reduce the reliance on such extra sessions.

While the Ministry issues directives annually, the effectiveness of these measures remains uncertain, with many schools continuing the practice. The Ministry urges community members to report institutions violating these guidelines to help curb illegal holiday teaching programs. The long-term impact of this cycle of extra lessons on student development and family finances continues to be a significant concern.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)