Over 40 Teachers in Lakes State Complete Refresher Training on New ALP Curriculum

By Mayak Majak Madit Tokjok

More than 40 teachers from two counties in Lakes State have completed a one-day refresher training on the new Accelerated Learning Programme (ALP) curriculum. The training aimed to strengthen teachers’ skills and improve the quality of education for learners.

The program brought together 44 teachers, including two women, who received certificates upon completion on Monday.

Anau Chirilo Majok, the State Director General for the Ministry of General Education and Instruction, spoke at the training, urging teachers to maintain proper records of learners. He emphasized the importance of preparing schemes of work and lesson plans as essential tools for effective teaching.

Anau also acknowledged the challenges teachers face, including salary difficulties amidst the country’s economic hardships. He encouraged them to remain committed to educating children despite these obstacles.

Abraham Mabior, Project Coordinator for the Women Initiative Development Organization (WIDO), stated that while teachers continue to face numerous challenges, education partners are working to address some of these difficulties.

Mabior encouraged mothers to enroll in education programs, assuring them of available support. He also called on primary school dropouts to join Accelerated Learning Programmes, which offer an opportunity to continue their education and eventually progress to secondary school.

Meanwhile, Ustaz Samuel Dem Marier, the National Director General for the Alternative Education System (AES), highlighted that the ability to develop schemes of work and lesson plans is an important qualification for professional teachers.

Marier emphasized that the quality and content of lessons delivered by teachers are crucial to learners’ development. He also noted that teachers without adequate educational qualifications might face challenges in delivering the curriculum effectively.

He commended teachers for their tireless commitment to implementing the curriculum and interacting with learners. According to Marier, effective teaching has encouraged children to become more confident in expressing themselves and improving their spoken English.

Marier further identified Awerial, Rumbek North, and Cueibet counties as areas in Lakes State that continue to face significant educational challenges.

Representing the teachers, Ustaz Makuac Ngakeba described them as the “true fighters” against illiteracy across the country. He urged parents to send their children to school and support their education.

Ustaz Andrew Wau Maker, representing county education directors, thanked the state and national education authorities for their continued support in equipping teachers with the skills needed to effectively deliver education to learners.

The training concluded with the awarding of certificates to the participating teachers.