Matungu SDA Comprehensive School in Mayoni Ward held a colorful and successful prayer day service for its 210 candidates in Grades 6 and 9 at the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
The service was conducted by Pastor Stephen Imwan of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. A total of 109 Grade 6 and 101 Grade 9 candidates were dedicated during the ceremony, which was presided over by the church leadership.
Speaking during the event, the school headteacher, Madam Emily Sasala, expressed confidence in the candidates’ preparedness and optimism for excellent results.
“We have done our best in preparing the learners for their upcoming exams, and we are confident they will perform beyond expectations. Competency-Based Education is one of the best curricula, and through continuous assessments and exposure to various exams, our learners now understand what to expect,” she said.
Madam Sasala praised her teachers for their dedication, noting that extended teaching hours, discipline, and teamwork have contributed to a smooth learning environment.
She also acknowledged the critical role of the church in nurturing the spiritual life of the learners.
“The SDA Church has done so much in supporting spiritual growth, which has greatly shaped discipline in our school. Our resident chaplain is loved by the learners and conducts PPI sessions every Monday, while Pastor Imwan joins us every Friday. This has helped our learners remain disciplined and focused,” she added.
The headteacher emphasized that education remains the greatest equalizer, encouraging learners to believe in their potential.
“We always remind them that they can become anything they aspire to if they work hard and pass their exams,” she noted.
Despite the school’s impressive record, Madam Sasala highlighted several challenges associated with the new curriculum.
“The Competency-Based Curriculum requires a lot of improvisation. We do not have science laboratories, but we created a portable lab that serves us well. Integrated Science is handled by only two teachers across six streams, which is not easy, but we have learned to make do with what we have,” she said.
She also noted a shortage of subject teachers.
“We currently do not have an English teacher, but teachers from the primary section have stepped in to handle the junior classes effectively. They also assist in teaching disciplines such as Music, Art, and Craft, and their contribution has been invaluable,” she explained.
Looking ahead, Madam Sasala revealed plans to establish a talent centre at the school next year to nurture learners’ skills.
“Many of our students have shown great talent in different areas. We have identified Volleyball as our niche, and we plan to develop it to become a regional powerhouse. Our neighbors have excelled in football; it is time for Matungu SDA to shine in Volleyball,” she said.
Plans are also underway to introduce a boarding section next year. The headteacher assured parents and the community that their children would be well taken care of.
She extended her gratitude to education stakeholders for their continued support.
“Matungu MP Hon. Peter Oscar Nabulindo has pledged to construct an eight-door storey building next year, following the renovation of four classrooms this year through the CDF. The Matungu Sub-County Education Office, Curriculum Support Officers, and other stakeholders have also been very supportive,” she said.
In conclusion, Madam Sasala prayed for divine guidance as the candidates head into their exams.
“I pray that the Lord grants our learners wisdom and understanding as they write their exams. This school is a model of discipline, and I believe our boys and girls will make us proud,” she said.
