COVID-19: Government introduces Free online learning platform

The ministry of education and sports has introduced a free of charge learning platform for learners at both primary and secondary level. The program dubbed Kolibri brings to children content approved by the National Curriculum Center in science and mathematics for secondary school learners and inclusive education for primary. This is meant to keep the children learning at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program which is also supported by the National Information Technology authority is part of the wider intervention by UNICEF to support education in 145 low and middle class countries across the globe during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Schools in the majority of countries worldwide have closed. It is an unprecedented situation and unless we collectively act now to protect children’s education, societies and economies will feel the burden long after we’ve beaten COVID-19. In the most vulnerable communities, the impact will span generations,” said Robert Jenkins, UNICEF Global Chief of Education. To access the online platform Kolibri, one will need internet connectivity and gadgets such as a desk computer, laptop or smartphone and follow the link http://e-learning.education.go.ug To increase efficiency and access to Kolibri to children who do not have the required gadgets or are limited by lack of electricity, UNICEF, together with the Ministry of Education and Sports and other education partners, are exploring the use of existing radio-based learning materials. Uganda closed all schools on the 20th- March-2020 as a preventive measure as the COVID pandemic spread to the East African region. So far 14 cases have been confirmed in the country including an eight months old baby who continues to receive treatment at Mulago hospital.