December 2,2023 (ENTEBBE, Uganda): The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has held Uganda National consultation meeting with representatives of government and partner agencies on Education towards Implementation of the Djibouti Declaration, today, in Entebbe, Uganda.
The main objective of the two- day-meeting is to assess the implementation status of the Djibouti Declaration on Education in the Republic of Uganda.
Speaking on behalf of the IGAD Director for Health and Social Development Division, Madam Fathia Alwan, Dr. Kebede Kassa Tsegaye, Senior Coordinator for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Program, stated that the Uganda National Consultation meeting is to appraise the achievements since their costed plan of action has been endorsed in 2021.
“IGAD believes that such a national dialogue with relevant stake holders will create better understanding and pave the way for effective collaboration.” Dr Kebede mentioned.
The senior Coordinator further emphasized that IGAD has been implementing the Djibouti Declaration and its plan of Action since 2017. Among others IGAD helped Member States to develop National costed plan for the implementation of the Djibouti Declaration.
Mr Kikomoko Joseph, Commisioner, Teacher Education, Training and Development, emphasized that the country has embarked on training its teachers on inclusive education as well as pedagogy.
“The country has continued to support refugees in many aspects. Many NGOs have been encouraged to support refugees.” He added.
Ms Darlson Kosasira,representative from Department of Refugees, Office of Prime Minister on her part explained that the Government of Uganda, has realized increased Enrollment and rendition of learners among the refugees and host communities, teacher training, quality standards of Education, inclusive and integrated Education by including refugees living with disabilities.
The meeting brought together participants from relevant government offices of the Republic of, partner agencies and the IGAD Secretariat.
Budget for the various activities is funded from the IGAD – GIZ (Gesellschaft fuer Internationale Zusammenarbeit) /SIMPI Financing Agreement.
Finally, the National Consultation meeting generated important information and knowledge on the status of implementation of the Djibouti Declaration, which is one of the commitments of IGAD member states and partners and identified gaps and recommendations to filling the IGAD such as Qualification Frameworks; and gained lessons in the implementation of the Uganda Costed National Plan and provided recommendations on the way forward.
During the closing ceremony, Dr Kebede Kassa, IGAD, appreciated the audience for active and engaging participation; and Ms Frances Atima, Director, Education Standards, thanks IGAD for organizing the consultation Meeting in Uganda.
It is to be remembered that the Djibouti Declaration was adopted in December 2017.
