Religious leaders oppose govt’s move to close PTCs

Religious leaders have challenged the government over plans to close down the core Primary Teaching Colleges (PTCs) across the country.

Last year, the Ministry of Education and Sports announced plans to phase out at least 23 Primary Teachers Colleges (PTCs) as part of the strategy to phase out Grade III and Grade V teaching qualifications in favor of a bachelor’s degree in education.

Among those to be closed is the Canon Lawrence PTC found in Boroboro in Lira district where St. Janan Lumum studied.

The Greater Northern Anglican Bishops Fellowship, believe that Canon Lawrence PTC is an icon of international recognition and it shouldn’t be closed.

The Team Leader of the fellowship, Bishops Fellowship, Bishop Prof Alfred Olowa, urged the government to reconsider the decision and retain the PTC since they are extremely important for the future of the nation, the future of the children.

Last week the Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa also tasked the education committee to probe the closure of PTCs after several MPs warned that if the move is upheld, it would impact on the quality of primary education in Uganda.

Written by Prossy Kisakye