Ellen Tracey, Northwestern University
“Evaluating the Centralized Educational System of Uganda Through the Lens of Community-run Primary Schools”
Abstract: The goal of this research was to study the relationship between the centralized Ugandan educational system and community-run primary schools, and this interaction’s impact on successful education for development. The increasing prevalence of community schools must be noted, and their reasons for emerging are essential to understanding the education system as a whole. Their reasons for success and failure and the challenges they face mirror those of government schools, and an inclusive study can benefit both of these types of schools, along with the overall structure within which they function. The study revealed both serious challenges facing the primary school system and opportunities for hope. Unity of community and government is necessary to create the strongest education system possible, and programs of mobilization and sensitization must be embarked upon to achieve this goal. Joint efforts and concentrated dedication by all aspects of society will enable Uganda to empower its children with the most crucial lessons of education for development.
Bio: Ellen Tracy is a senior at Northwestern University studying Political Science and Economics. In the fall of 2007, she participated in the School for International Development Studies program based in Kampala, Uganda. During her time in Uganda, she conducted research on the community school system in the district of Mbarara. At Northwestern, she is deeply involved in Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, Dance Marathon, and Tzedek Hillel. She is originally from Newton, Massachusetts, where she graduated from Newton South High School in 2005.
