By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) has called for modernization of education data systems and strategic partnerships in the country’s education sector.
UBOS Board Chairperson, Dr. Albert Byamugisha said during the commemoration of the African Statistics Day at UBOS head offices Kampala on Monday that revolutionizing data use through digital technology will help in planning, resources allocation to schools, as well as addressing the increasing demands of real time information and evidence-based decision-making in the education industry.
“Statistics remain the backbone of evidence-based decision-making. Let us all champion the use of data as we strive to address the increasing demand for real-time information and embrace the digital revolution in the statistical value chain.”
He further disclosed that UBOS will release the final 2024 Census in December, this year.
Additionally, the UBOS Executive Director Dr. Chris Mukiza commended partnerships that have improved data quality but noted challenges such as low EMIS adoption, limited ICT infrastructure, and disparities in rural education access.
“Our collaboration has allowed us to collect quality data that informs critical education policies. While Africa celebrates this day annually, Uganda has chosen to dedicate an entire week to underscore the importance of statistics,” Mukiza noted.
With Uganda’s net primary school enrollment at 91%, Mukiza stressed that accurate data is key to addressing dropout rates and resource allocation.
“Quality statistics guide planning, from allocating resources for schools to monitoring student retention rates. This is especially critical as we navigate the fourth industrial revolution,” he said.
According to UBOS, Uganda’s net primary school enrollment rate stands at 91%, reflecting significant strides in universal primary education. However, challenges remain, including disparities in access between rural and urban areas and a primary school dropout rate of 32%.
Rev. Prof. Dr. Samuel Lubonga, an official representing Education Service Commission urged the government to identify children at birth with an Identification Number which they should use in schools and other social services. According to him, this would help to track learners and minimize on school drop out.
During the celebration, UNICEF credited UBOS for being a premiere statistics body in the region amidst funding challenges.
