Child Rights activists from the Uganda Child Rights NGO Network Education working group convened today to discuss ways of strengthening the positive discipline coalition and providing alternatives to end corporal punishment in schools.
Formed in 2023, the coalition aims to prevent corporal punishment in schools and other forms of violence against children and also popularize positive discipline.
Members of the coalition from different organizations that included: Raising Voices, High Sound for Children, Forum for Women Educationists (FAWE), Trailblazers Mentorship Foundation, Unbound, Concern for the girl child, UCOBAC, Cotton on Foundation, Zima Child Hope Africa among others discussed strategies for eliminating corporal punishment and introducing alternative disciplinary measures.
During the meeting, Ronald Kabunga from the Ministry of Education urged Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to develop guidance on alternatives and present them to the ministry for review and incorporation.
"While the government has outlawed corporal punishment, we still face challenges in implementing practical disciplinary methods. As we engage with teachers, input from civil society on alternatives would be greatly appreciated," Mr. Kabunga emphasized.
Mr. Damon Wamara, the Executive Director of Uganda Child Rights NGO Network, appealed to members to maintain unity and strategic engagement with all stakeholders.
