Makerere University scholars have taken an initiative to translate science terms into local languages. Dr. Henry Busulwa, Dr. Harriet Nabushawo, Dr. John Ssentongo, and Dr. Allen Nalugwa are the key contributors to this project.
The idea originated in 2020 when the scholars noticed a decline in interest and performance in science subjects among primary school learners. To address this, they translated two resource books into Luganda and Lumasaaba languages, aligning with the thematic curriculum of lower primary classes.
Dr. Busulwa, the Principal Investigator, highlighted the importance of learning science terms in the mother tongue. Between 2015 and 2019, the data revealed that fewer than 5000 pupils excelled in science, while over 1000 failed completely.
Under the project named “Inter-disciplinary Enhancement of Science Education in the Uganda Primary Thematic Curriculum,” the scholars interacted with teachers, learners, and elders in various districts to gather suitable terms for science subjects.
The study uncovered that a significant percentage of teachers could not translate science terms into local languages. Moreover, it revealed that there is no dedicated science subject in lower primary; instead, science terms are incorporated into Literacy I and Literacy II subjects.
The scholars emphasized the challenge faced by young teachers in rural areas who struggle to teach in local languages. The translated books aim to make science teaching more comfortable for educators.
Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, praised the project’s efforts. He highlighted the potential impact on science education at advanced levels, emphasizing the importance of understanding science concepts from an early stage.
The team received appreciation from teachers like Ms. Lovenance Napokoli, who believes that the translated books will be beneficial to both learners and teachers. The representatives from districts also expressed concerns about the current state of science education and the potential positive impact of this initiative.
The National Curriculum Development Center (NCDC) encouraged the scholars to digitize their resources, foreseeing a broader impact. Dr. Deborah Magera from NCDC emphasized the importance of understanding science concepts in a language familiar to the children.
