The Ministry of Education has reaffirmed its commitment to ending violence against children and expressed deep concern over the rising trends of corporal punishment and bullying in schools.
During the recent Positive Discipline Coalition meeting, various stakeholders came together to discuss actionable alternatives to corporal punishment.
Angela Nansubuga from the Gender Mainstreaming Unit at the ministry of Education highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, “Corporal punishment and bullying are high and negatively affecting our learners. However, addressing these issues requires viable alternatives. Let’s use this opportunity to finalize and disseminate these alternatives widely.”
Nansubuga also emphasized the importance of supporting existing government working committees in their efforts to combat violence against children (VAC). She noted ongoing initiatives, including a National Violence against the Children study covering 81 districts, which aims to provide data-driven insights for more effective interventions.
She was speaking at a meeting that brought together various civil society organizations under the Positive Discipline Coalition, held under the theme: “The power is in your hands to nurture and not hurt! Learn how you can discipline without using violence”.
The Essence of Positive Discipline
Mariam Nakiyingi, a teacher and resource person at Raising Voices, underscored the principles of positive discipline. “Positive discipline is about teaching life skills such as critical thinking and tolerance. It involves parents and ensures that alternatives to violence are age-appropriate, relevant, and aimed at helping learners become better individuals,” she explained.
Breaking Down Policies for Effective Implementation
Rosette Nanyanzi, the head of the Gender Unit at the Ministry of Education and sports, called on all stakeholders to simplify existing policies and laws for teachers, schools, and parents. “For effective implementation, these policies need to be broken down into simpler terms that everyone can understand,” she said.
Nanyanzi also shared updates on the Ministry’s efforts, including the finalization of a course unit on gender-based violence (GBV) and gender-positive pedagogy for secondary schools. “While we have been conducting capacity-building sessions, the challenge remains the mindset. Changing attitudes is crucial,” she concluded.
The Coalition at Work
The Positive Discipline Coalition brings together various organizations dedicated to ending corporal punishment and promoting child-friendly disciplinary practices. Key members include High Sound for Children, Raising Voices, Concern for the Girl Child, Africhild, Trailblazers mentoring Foundation, and UCRNN, among others.
By fostering collaboration and sharing innovative solutions, the coalition aims to create a safer and more supportive environment for learners across the country.