Young people must receive civic education as Uganda gets ready for its next election. Since a large section of the population is young, they must comprehend and cherish democracy. We (Open Space Centre) have taken the lead in bringing civic engagement and education to schools in underprivileged communities through the US Missions’ Nile Explorer Bus program.
Elections being the bedrock of any democratic society allowing citizens to choose their leaders and shape the future of their nation, for young people, understanding and participating in the electoral process before they reach voting age is critical. This early engagement helps them develop a sense of civic duty and the importance of their voice in governance. By learning about elections through practical, hands-on experiences, young Ugandans are informed as active citizens, ready to contribute to their country’s democratic processes.
Under the civic engagement component, students on the Nile Explorer Bus are provided knowledge and experiences that reinforce the notions of democracy, constitutionalism, and the rule of law, contextualizing them to their importance at home, school, and in the community. On the Nile Explorer Bus, students engage in mock elections where they elect a president for the Nile Explorer Club at their schools. This immersive exercise allows interested candidates to present their manifestos and persuade 42 of their fellow students to cast their votes.
Through this process, students gain hands-on experience in the democratic process, learning how to campaign, debate, and participate in elections practically and engagingly. This initiative not only educates them about the importance of elections but also empowers them with the confidence and skills needed for future civic participation.
The hands-on experience provided by the Nile Explorer Bus has a profound impact on students. This early exposure helps build a foundation of informed and engaged citizenship. Students who understand the electoral process are more likely to participate in elections when they reach voting age, leading to higher voter turnout and more representative governance. Moreover, the skills gained through these activities extend beyond civic knowledge. Students develop critical thinking, decision-making, and public speaking skills, which are valuable in all aspects of life. The confidence and empowerment that come from understanding their role in a democratic society encourage young people to become proactive and involved community members.
The Nile Explorer Bus is more than just a mobile classroom, it is a catalyst for change in Uganda’s education landscape. By bringing quality education to the most remote and underserved communities, it ensures that all students have the opportunity to learn and grow. The bus’s innovative approach to teaching, particularly in civic engagement, prepares students to be thoughtful, informed, and active participants in their country’s future.
Check out the Nile Explorer website for more about the project: https://nileexplorer.org/