We must encourage more girls to embrace science subjects

The general improvement in overall performance in the UACE examinations could be an indication of improved functionality of our education system. It is, however, important to remember that though girls performed better than boys, their lead was mostly in Arts subjects while the boys maintained their win in the science subjects as usual.

Most of the low performance in science subjects and mathematics by girls is caused by negative attitudes shaped by stereotypes in our society. Many girls simply tell you how hard Mathematics and Science are when they are still in primary school. The general notion is that Science and Mathematics are for boys and this is what is reflected in the results today.

It is important for us to watch our language and actions and to share our successes and failures objectively so that we do not mislead our children. Making science subjects compulsory saw all students (boys and girls) literally take on these subjects but this has not translated into improved performance in the above subjects mostly for girls.

There is a need for educationalists to think of measures that will target attitude change right from the learners to the teachers and members of the society through implementation of policies and programmes on education and gender, media activities and community sensitisation activities.

Dinnah Nabwire,
nabwire.dinah@yahoo.com