Soroti University has embarked on a comprehensive capacity-building programme for its academic staff aimed at strengthening teaching aligned to new curriculum of competence-based education. The training is aimed at preparing the University to meet the evolving demands of higher education in the digital era and expose lecturers to transition from traditional lectures to active, problem-based learning, applying backward design principles.
Participants attentively listening to the facilitators during the sessions today
The training will involve video and live demonstrations showcasing global and regional best practices in diverse teaching methods, simulated workplace projects and industry case studies for large classrooms and how to execute student led problem solving session
The training brings together academic staff from across the University’s faculties and departments to enhance their knowledge and practical skills in Competence-Based Education and Training (CBET), modern pedagogical approaches, contemporary assessment methods, Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration in teaching and learning, and institutional governance.
The training explores the principles of Competence-Based Education and Training, with emphasis on learner-centred instruction, outcome-based curriculum delivery, experiential learning and the development of employable skills.
The sessions are designed to enable academic staff to effectively align course content, teaching methodologies, and assessment practices with clearly defined learning outcomes (Smart Test Design and Moderation).
The training also focuses on modern pedagogy, exposing lecturers to innovative teaching strategies that promote critical thinking, collaboration, problem-solving, and active student engagement. Participants are being introduced to technology-enhanced learning approaches.
Recognising the changing landscape of higher education, the training includes practical sessions on Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration in teaching, research, and academic administration, project-based learning, performance-based evaluation, digital assessment tools and constructive feedback mechanisms that accurately measure students’ competencies and practical abilities
Another key component is modern assessment, where participants are examining innovative approaches to evaluating student learning beyond traditional examinationsShifting to AI- resistant assessment formats like oral examinations (vivas), detecting AI cheating and dealing with false-positive plagiarism flags.
This is aimed to foster interactive classrooms and improve students’ overall learning experiences, writing logic based “un-googleable” exam questions to curb cheating.
The training also addresses institutional governance, equipping academic staff with a deeper understanding of university governance structures, leadership responsibilities, accountability, policy implementation, quality assurance, ethical decision-making, and strategic planning. This underscores the critical role that every member of staff plays in promoting transparency, integrity and institutional excellence.
Dr. James Asile Droti of National Curriculum Development Centre taking participants through the session.
As the University positions itself to respond effectively to emerging educational trends, technological advancements and the evolving needs of society, the training provides an opportunity to develop innovative solutions to challenges facing higher education.
As universities continue to embrace Competence Based Education (CBET), digital transformation and learner-centred education, initiatives of this nature ensure that academic staff remain equipped with the competencies necessary to deliver relevant, inclusive and future-oriented education.
The 4 days training facilitated by a team of experts from National Curriculum Development Centre, Dr. James Asile Droti, Dr. Dennis Zami Atibuni of Muni University, Dr. Moses Ogor of Busitema University and Mr. Guma Alhaji Salim of Busitema University among other facilitators.
The initiative reflects the University’s commitment to continuous internal professional development and imparting practical skills and innovative mindset required to produce globally employable graduates.