Addressing the ongoing confusion in the implementation of Junior Secondary School (JSS) requires a clear strategy.
The current dilemma, where the location of JSS remains uncertain, has led to a lack of direction even at the ministerial level.
The government initially recommended placing JSS within primary schools, sparking debates on whether it should eventually transition to secondary schools.
My perspective is to keep JSS within primary schools temporarily, gradually transitioning to secondary schools.
For instance, current Grade 7 students could continue learning in primary school classrooms until Grade 8, and subsequently, move to Grade 9 in secondary school.
This approach ensures a smooth progression, utilizing classrooms left vacant by advancing students.
However, upon reflection, some crucial observations have emerged.
Secondary schools, particularly those constructed under the leadership of Magoha, have unoccupied classrooms.
Secondary school teachers are specifically trained for secondary-level instruction, and these schools boast facilities like laboratories that JSS students require.
Given the overcrowded Grade 7 classrooms and underutilized secondary school facilities, a dual domicile for JSS in both primary and secondary schools seems practical.
An urgent audit by the Ministry of Education should identify schools capable of hosting JSS, preventing a further deterioration of the situation.
The recent marking of the KPSEA examination for last year’s Grade 6 students is a positive development.
Utilizing these results to place students in the secondary schools of their choice is a logical step.
Those opting for schools with immediate capacity can transition immediately, while the proposed formula can be applied for others, ensuring a comprehensive and well-managed approach.
In conclusion, an expedited audit of both primary and secondary schools, coupled with strategic placement based on examination results, is essential.
This proactive approach is crucial to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control and to ensure a seamless implementation of JSS.
By Enock Shirandula
The writer is a retired educationist, a Kabarasi language reviewer of Kabarasi BTL Project and author of so DIFFERENT SHE WAS emshirandula@yahoo.com
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