The 1st National Conference on Learning Outcomes in Uganda 2017 Theme: “Learning Outcomes: the measure of progress for Uganda’s education” Venue: Kyambogo University (NPT Building), Kampala Uganda Date: April 12th -13th 2017

The Conference Partnership Uwezo at Twaweza East Africa in partnership with Kyambogo University, Makerere University’s School of Education and Curriculum, Assessment and Certification Systems Architects (CACSA) Australia

Conference Rationale Uganda has done well in expanding access to primary education. The next step is to make sure that children learn. Far too many do not. The conference will catalyse debate and actions around learning outcomes at national level.

Participants in the conference Key education sector partners including the Ministry of Education and Sports departments, private sector and civil society Independent researchers and graduate students that have used learning assessment data as part of their research Non-government/international organisations that have implemented interventions to improve learning outcomes based on evidence from learning assessments Teachers and teacher educators Total number of participants: 100

Conference Themes Alternative methodologies of assessing learning outcomes in literacy and numeracy Evidence on learning outcomes in literacy and numeracy Inclusive Basic Education What works in improving learning outcomes in basic education Assessing social and emotional skills Policy on learning outcomes

Progress so far Received 80 abstracts by the closing date on 23rd February 2017 Three keynotes, 39 papers and 27 poster presentations have been lined up for presentation in plenary and three parallel sessions The conference programme is already out.

Intended outcomes The conference will: Raise the profile of and catalyse debate around learning outcomes at national level Shape perceptions and knowledge of what counts as quality education - that schooling doesn't equal learning Promote the idea that the degree to which children acquire foundational competences must be the key measure of Uganda’s education system Influence actions and interventions to improve learning outcomes Contribute to national and global knowledge through a book publication based on the proceedings of the conference.