Uganda Partners With South Africa on Teacher Training

Twenty-four education officials from Uganda traveled to Tshwane University of Technology in South Africa to discover better ways to train teachers across the continent.

The July 2026 visit focused on a unique four-year program that teaches future teachers how to assess their students effectively. Prof Anil Kanjee, an education assessment specialist, explained that the program is one of only a few of its kind in Africa.

The program trains student teachers in both testing methods and how to use those results to improve their teaching. Graduates learn to give helpful feedback, support students in evaluating their own work, and identify where learners need extra help.

Dr Jeanette Ramollo, Assistant Dean of the School of Education, emphasized why working together matters. "We cannot work in isolation," she said, noting that collaboration helps countries learn from each other and identify what works best.

Uganda is currently revising its curriculum and assessment policies. Julius Tayebwa, Under Secretary in Uganda's Ministry of Education and Sports, said they chose South Africa because African challenges need African solutions.

Representatives from South Africa's Department of Basic Education and the South African Democratic Teachers' Union also joined the discussions. Dr Mark Chetty from the Department of Basic Education said the partnership helps both countries understand each other's education reforms.

The Ripple Effect

This partnership reaches far beyond two countries sharing ideas. When teachers learn better assessment methods, they can identify struggling students earlier and adjust their teaching approaches. That means more children actually learn what they need to succeed.

The collaboration also shows how African nations are looking to each other for solutions rather than relying solely on Western models. Countries that understand similar contexts and challenges can often provide more practical and culturally relevant strategies.

Both sides are now working on a formal Memorandum of Understanding, with special focus on teacher education and inclusive education. The partnership will include research projects and ongoing exchange of best practices.

Ms Faseega Solomon, Vice President of South Africa's largest teachers' union, committed to ensuring every learner has access to quality education. The engagement ended with all participants pledging to advance education through research, innovation and stronger African partnerships.

Better trained teachers today means better educated students tomorrow across the continent.