Project Work in the New Curriculum in Uganda

Project work is one of the defining features of the new lower secondary curriculum in Uganda. It shifts learning from theory-based memorization to hands-on discovery, problem-solving, and innovation. Through projects, learners demonstrate the competencies they have gained, applying classroom knowledge to real-life challenges in their communities.

Understanding Project Work

In the new curriculum, project work is a continuous assessment activity designed to help students explore issues, design solutions, and present findings. Learners identify a problem within their environment, plan how to solve it, and then execute the plan under the guidance of their teachers. The goal is not just to complete a task but to develop creativity, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills that prepare students for life beyond school.

How Project Work Is Conducted

Each subject in the new curriculum integrates project work as part of the teaching and learning process. Teachers provide direction, but learners take the lead in planning and implementation. Projects can range from simple science experiments and community clean-up activities to innovative business ideas and artistic creations. The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) requires schools to record and submit project work results as part of learners’ continuous assessment marks.

Assessment of Project Work

Assessment of project work is done using clear rubrics that measure creativity, accuracy, teamwork, effort, and presentation. Teachers are expected to assess learners at each stage of the project, ensuring that the final marks reflect both process and product. These marks are then compiled and stored in school records for submission to UNEB. To make this process easier, schools are encouraged to use digital tools that simplify record management and report generation.

The Role of Technology in Managing Project Work

Managing hundreds of learners’ project marks manually can be a daunting task. This is where technology comes in to support teachers and administrators. The Shuleni Report Card Management System provides an efficient platform for recording, analyzing, and generating project work results. With Shuleni, schools can easily update learner records, calculate averages, and produce report cards in seconds—eliminating the burden of paperwork. It also helps ensure that no learner’s effort goes unrecognized.

Challenges in Implementing Project Work

Despite its benefits, project work comes with challenges. Some schools face inadequate resources, limited teacher training, and time constraints. In certain cases, teachers find it difficult to design authentic projects that fit the learning outcomes. However, with continuous professional development and tools like the Shuleni Report Card Management System, schools can overcome these challenges and make project-based learning more effective.

Conclusion

Project work under the new curriculum is reshaping how learners in Uganda are educated. It encourages innovation, responsibility, and real-world application of knowledge. When supported by reliable systems such as Shuleni Report Card Management System, schools can manage assessments seamlessly, promote learner engagement, and enhance overall performance. In this new era of competency-based education, project work stands as a bridge between learning and life.