The association representing Kiswahili speakers in Uganda, known as CHAKITAU (Chama Cha Kiswahili Cha Taifa Cha Uganda), has urged the government to enact a directive mandating the inclusion of Kiswahili in both primary and secondary education across the country. Their appeal is grounded in the belief that integrating Kiswahili into the educational system will foster the attainment of the East African Community’s goals and objectives.
Dr. Levi Masereka Kahaika, a Kiswahili lecturer at Makerere University, emphasized the importance of introducing Kiswahili at an early age, suggesting its integration at the nursery level. He highlighted research indicating that early exposure to language significantly enhances fluency and proficiency.
During the 17th annual Kiswahili conference held at Makerere University, stakeholders underscored the imperative of making Kiswahili education widespread. Participants from various institutions, including universities and schools, emphasized the need for Kiswahili to be offered in all regions of Uganda to ensure equitable access to language education.
Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu, Head of the Department of Humanities and Language Education at Makerere University, raised concerns about the employment status of Kiswahili teachers. Despite the integration of Kiswahili into the curriculum, many qualified teachers remain unemployed, posing a threat to the sustainability of Kiswahili education in Uganda.
Dr. Boaz Mutungi, Vice President of CHAKITAU, highlighted disparities in Kiswahili education across different regions of Uganda. While central and western schools offer Kiswahili, institutions in the north and east often do not. He urged the government to address these discrepancies by deploying available Kiswahili teachers to underserved areas.
Statistics presented by CHAKITAU revealed significant unemployment among registered Kiswahili teachers. Out of 2,401 registered members, over 85% are without employment opportunities. Dr. Martin Mulei, the patron of CHAWAKANA Uganda, praised schools that have begun implementing Kiswahili language policies but stressed the need for broader adoption.
In 2022, the Ugandan cabinet approved the implementation of the East African Community directive to make Kiswahili the official language and mandated its compulsory teaching in primary and lower secondary schools. However, challenges persist in ensuring uniform implementation across all levels of education.
The call for making Kiswahili compulsory in schools reflects ongoing efforts to promote linguistic diversity and cultural integration within Uganda’s education system. Advocates believe that embracing Kiswahili will not only enhance communication within the East African region but also contribute to national unity and cohesion.
