education 4 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Holidays Are Vital Learning Spaces, Not Wasted School Time
Dr. Samuel Andema urges Ugandans to let children return home during holidays for essential family and community learning that builds character beyond exam scores. He critiques holiday teaching as a symptom of deeper education flaws while emphasizing non-academic growth. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/let-children-come-home-holidays-are-not-failed-school-time-5446862
Every school holiday in Uganda sparks debate over whether children should stay home with families or attend extra lessons to cover syllabi and boost exam performance. Supporters cite concerns like unfinished curricula and idle time at home, but this overlooks the profound value of holiday experiences.
Children learn vital life skills outside classrooms—from parents, relatives, and communities—gaining empathy, cultural identity, responsibility, and humility. These intangibles form the moral backbone for true societal progress, preventing the production of high-scorers lacking character or community spirit.
Holidays offer rare chances for kids to engage in family chores, storytelling, play, worship, and cultural events, absorbing values through daily participation rather than formal instruction. Without this, society risks collapse despite academic achievements.
Defenders of holiday classes claim they curb idleness, but alternatives like reading clubs, sports, mentorship, and home help provide structured engagement without turning breaks into extended terms. This practice also masks systemic issues: overloaded curricula, large classes, poor teaching methods, and time mismanagement.
Economic motives sometimes drive holiday teaching, turning it into revenue for schools amid parental pressures. True seriousness doesn’t mean exhaustion; over-drilling can stifle curiosity and joy. Targeted remedial support is fine for struggling students, but blanket holiday classes undermine rest.
The Ministry of Education must enforce calendars, while parents, communities, and leaders organize enriching activities. Protecting holidays fosters critical thinkers who care and serve, building a balanced society.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)