On the evening of July 8, 2024, the Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda (@WikiUganda) and the Uganda National English Language Teachers Association (UNELTA) embarked on a promising new chapter in their shared mission to enhance educational resources and professional development for teachers. The productive training meeting, held at the vibrant Urban Village in Nansana, marked the beginning of an inspiring partnership with the Wiki Edu team, aimed at transforming the landscape of continuing professional development (CPD) for educators across Uganda.

A Collaborative Vision for Educational Advancement

Led by Bamukunda Hillary, the dynamic President of UNELTA and Drake Tamale the Wiki Edu Coordinator, the meeting brought together UNELTA executives and the dedicated Wiki Edu team to lay the groundwork for a collaborative initiative that promises to enrich the teaching and learning experience. This year, UNELTA has committed to a remarkable goal: the creation of 20 new Wikipedia articles and an impressive 2000 edits. This ambitious project underscores the dedication of both organizations to fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing and continuous improvement.

The Role of Wiki Edu in CPD for Teachers

The partnership with Wiki Edu is a significant milestone for UNELTA, offering teachers innovative opportunities for CPD. By engaging with the Wikimedia platform, educators will not only enhance their digital literacy skills but also contribute to the global repository of knowledge, making valuable information accessible to a wider audience. This collaboration aligns perfectly with UNELTA’s mission to support the professional growth of English language teachers and improve the quality of education in Uganda.

The Evening’s Highlights

The training session at Urban Village was characterized by a spirit of enthusiasm and collaboration. Participants delved into the intricacies of Wikipedia editing, learning the nuances of creating accurate, reliable, and engaging content. The Wiki Edu team provided comprehensive guidance, ensuring that the UNELTA executives were well-equipped to lead their members in this exciting venture.

Looking Ahead: A Year of Contributions and Growth

As UNELTA members prepare to contribute 20 new articles and 2000 edits, the impact of this initiative is anticipated to be profound. These contributions will not only enrich Wikipedia’s content but also empower teachers with the skills to leverage digital tools for educational purposes. The ripple effect of this partnership will be felt in classrooms across Uganda, as teachers incorporate their newfound knowledge into their teaching practices, ultimately benefiting students and the broader community.

A Bright Future for Education in Uganda

The collaboration between Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda and UNELTA exemplifies the power of partnerships in driving educational progress. By harnessing the strengths of both organizations, this initiative promises to elevate the standards of education and professional development for teachers. As we look forward to a year of contributions, edits, and growth, the future of education in Uganda shines brighter than ever.

Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring partnership and join us in celebrating the collective efforts of @WikiUganda and UNELTA in shaping the future of education.

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For more information, follow us on Twitter @WikiUganda and @UNELTA1, and join the conversation using the hashtag #WikiEdu.