Uganda Stands Strong Against Bullying and Cyberbullying during International Day Against School Violence and Bullying

On November 2, 2023, Uganda joined the global community in commemorating the International Day Against Violence and Bullying at School, including cyberbullying. This significant day, recognized worldwide, serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle to combat all forms of violence and bullying that affect students of all ages.

The objective of the inter-school debate was to raise awareness about the link between school violence, and bullying, including cyberbullying and mental health. The event promoted empathy among students, educators, and parents, provided practical tools and resources to combat bullying, and contributed to the creation of safe and supportive school environments.   

In a unified effort to raise awareness, promote tolerance, and address this critical issue, stakeholders including schools, government officials, and students across the ESA region (Botswana, Eswatini, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe) convened to participate in various activities earmarked for the day including a virtual debate competition involving learners from across the region. This year's commemoration sought to highlight the strong linkages between school violence and mental health, especially in the context of COVID-19 and its impact on teaching and learning across the region. The day was celebrated under the theme ‘’No place for fear: Ending school violence for better mental health and learning’’. 

Uganda’s representation in the international debate competition was led by 5 schools, namely; Namagabi Secondary School, Kayunga, Namilyango College, Mengo S.S., Wanyange Girls School, and Balibaseka Secondary School, Wakiso. The team performed opposing and counterarguments against the motion that supports the notion that perpetrators of bullying including cyberbullying should be viewed as victims of mental illness who need psychological support.  

Despite not emerging victors in the competition, Uganda's representation at the International Students Debate Against School Violence and Bullying garnered widespread recognition for their exceptional performance and unwavering dedication to the cause of combating school violence and cyberbullying. The country’s involvement in the competition ignited a renewed sense of determination to address violence in schools and stakeholders' experiences and insights gained from the event will contribute to shaping more effective anti-bullying policies and programs in Uganda. 

Ms. Rosette Nanyanzi, the Gender Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Education and Sports in Uganda commended the learners for their dedication and performance in the competition. She highlighted that, “in addition to what the debating team has been able to submit, you have also been able to benefit from the discussion by acquiring valuable knowledge, networking with students from other schools.”  On behalf of the Ministry of Education, Ms. Rosette commended UNESCO for the unique opportunity of organizing the international debate competition which exposes learners to diverse cultures and opportunities that help strengthen existing clubs at school levels to combat aspects of violence against children. 

The competition featured teams from various countries, who explored a wide range of topics related to bullying, cyberbullying, and violence in educational settings. Students from different nations engaged in spirited debates, discussed potential solutions, and shared individual experiences. 

Uganda's involvement serves as a testament to the country's commitment to creating safe and inclusive learning environments for all students. The experience gained from the debate will undoubtedly prove invaluable in the ongoing efforts to combat school violence and bullying, both in physical and digital spaces.