It is essential to equip students in schools in the rural parts of Uganda with problem-solving skills, in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4 on Quality Education. Problem-solving skills allow students to think critically, identify and evaluate potential solutions, and make decisions that can help them succeed in their academic, social, and eventual professional lives.

On the Nile Explorer Bus, we teach problem-solving skills through methods such as interactive training sessions, textbooks in our mobile library, hands-on activities such as games and virtual reality simulations. Teaching problem-solving skills in underserved schools in rural areas of Uganda can be especially beneficial because it provides these students with the knowledge and confidence to tackle the unique challenges they face.

In this module, we focus on helping students identify and define the problem, and understand the different perspectives associated with it. They’re encouraged to brainstorm creative solutions and evaluate their effectiveness. The students then, with the trainers’ help, develop decision-making skills by learning how to weigh different options and make informed decisions.

Teaching problem-solving skills helps students, especially those in rural parts of Uganda, become more self-reliant and empowered to take on challenges and opportunities. It also helps them become more active participants in their communities and develop a sense of agency in their lives. By equipping students with problem-solving skills, through the Nile Explorer Bus, we contribute to the achievement of sustainable development goal 4, by ensuring that they receive a quality education that will help them reach their full potential.