All students pursuing undergraduate programs are supposed to conduct internship as a way of practicing what they have been studying in class, which carries marks for the final transcript. In Uganda, most of the universities and higher institutions permit their students to undertake internship practice in June – July but this year’s programme was disrupted by the outbreak COVID-19.
Earlier in June 2020, Makerere university senate had proposed to let their students go on with internship amid coronavirus lockdown as long as they observe standard operating procedures (SOPs) set by the Ministry of Health. However, this idea was halted by Members of Parliament saying that it was not safe for students.
The management of Makerere university has come up with another proposal of considering virtual internship after being guided by the ministry of health. In this, students are not allowed to go to the university.
In a letter dated 7th July 2020 sent to Makerere University principals, deans and registrars, Associate Professor Umar Kakumba the deputy vice chancellor in charge of academics communicated that SOPs are supposed to be followed if students are to continue with internship programs as it was scheduled.
“The education ministry, had given a no objection to the Senate’s decision, to the internship activities, as long as the Standard Operating Procedures, as provided by the Ministry of Health and the National Task Force on COVID-19, and other safety measures are observed.” He noted.
On 3rd July 2020, the ministry of education and sports permanent secretary Alex Kakooza through a letter to Makerere University communicated that the university must ensure that students have safe transport, to and from the institutions where they are doing their internship.
In addition, students must come from their homes to do internship and should not reside in hostels and also the university should keep the ministry abreast on the development of the students’ internship process.
More so, unlike the scenario, where students would always do internship within six to eight weeks, Prof. Kakumba, in an interview with yesterday said there should be flexibility, and that students who may not complete internship on time, need to be given more time.
“A remedial programme may will be made by each College to enable this exercise for the extended period up to six months (July to December), or when next offered.” Prof Kakumba explained.
He also emphasized that engagement should leverage on the existing offline and online mechanisms, for effective supervision to ensure the intended learning outcomes.
