Academic Performance Improvement for Primary School-Going Children Sponsored by Compassion International in Northern Uganda

Abstract

Sponsored primary school children need a conducive environment to perform well in school. This study identified effective strategies that Compassion International can implement to improve the academic performance of sponsored primary school children in Northern Uganda. The research objectives were: to find out what keeps Compassion International-sponsored primary children in Northern Uganda from performing well; to investigate how parents contribute to the academic performance of Compassion International-sponsored primary children in Northern Uganda; to examine whether primary school facilities and curriculum are adequate to support the academic progress for Compassion International-sponsored primary children in Northern Uganda; and to explore the ways school practices differ across regions in Northern Uganda. A mixed-methods research design was used. A total sample size of 45 respondents was selected. Data was collected from interviews, survey questionnaires and observation. The findings revealed that there was a recognition that improving academic performance requires a multifaceted approach. Strategies such as conducting remedial lessons, offering scholarships, and organizing sensitization meetings are commonly employed to enhance students' academic outcomes. The responses however identified several challenges specific to Northern Uganda, including poverty, low parental involvement, language barriers, and poor access to quality education. These challenges directly impacted students' academic performance and needed to be addressed in any effective intervention strategy. The study concluded that academic performance in Northern Uganda was influenced by factors such as poverty, low parental involvement, inadequate school infrastructure, and limited resources. A holistic approach involving community, school, and parental collaboration was crucial for improvement. Recommendations included targeted poverty alleviation programs, enhancing parental engagement, improving school infrastructure, and tailoring solutions to the unique needs of different sub-regions. Expanding scholarship programs, fostering community involvement, and implementing a strong monitoring and evaluation system are also key to boosting academic success.