Science Week in Uganda – Education for the Future of Africa
A school in Uganda embodies the spirit of scientific temper
As a founder of the nonprofit Scientific Temper, I see promoting science, critical thinking, and humanism as universal tools for empowerment. In his 1946 book The Discovery of India, India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, described scientific temper as:
“The scientific approach, the adventurous and yet critical temper of science, the search for truth and new knowledge, the refusal to accept anything without testing and trial, the capacity to change previous conclusions in the face of new evidence, the reliance on observed fact and not on pre-conceived theory, the hard discipline of the mind—all this is necessary, not merely for the application of science but for life itself and the solution of its many problems.”To bring scientific thinking to everyone, we must harness the transformative power of science-based education, particularly in regions where access to it is limited.
Initiatives such as Science Week at Kasese Humanist School in Uganda, which took place a month ago, deserve our support. The project nurtures curiosity, critical thinking and rational enquiry from an early age, fostering a world in which science and humanism can flourish globally.
Science Week at the Kasese School and Why it Matters
In September 2025, the Kasese Humanist School in Uganda hosted its Science Week – a celebration of curiosity, experimentation, and rational inquiry. This event brought together students, teachers, and community members to explore the power of science in shaping a better future.
Science Week is more than a school event – it is a statement of values. It promotes critical thinking, hands-on learning, and the joy of discovery. In a region where access to scientific education is limited, initiatives like this empower young minds and foster resilience.
The German non-profit organisation Scientific Temper gUG provided financial support and encouragement for the Science Week. We particularly admire the Kasese Humanist School for embodying our values of promoting universal critical thinking and science-based education, as reflected in its motto: ‘With science, we can progress’.
Investing in grassroots education and encouraging rational inquiry from an early age is one of the most valuable contributions to our shared future, and we urge others to join us in this endeavour.
Africa as a Continent of Opportunity
Africa is rich in both resources and potential. Education is the key to unlocking this potential. Investing in science education will empower African students to drive innovation, address local issues and engage in global conversations. It is encouraging to see the engagement and commitment of the school’s director, Robert Bwambale Musubaho, and his team as they lead the way into this future.
Impressions from Kasese
Students exploring basic chemistry during Science Week
Teachers, students, and community members celebrating the Science Week.
Closing Thoughts
Scientific temper begins with education. In Kasese, we see the seeds of a future where reason, science, and humanism can flourish – not just in Uganda, but across the continent.
Visit the school’s website, where you can also make a direct donation, such as sponsoring a child.
We hope to see more such initiatives worldwide.
Coming Next
This is my first post focusing on promoting scientific temper around the world. I will also be posting about the importance of critical thinking, defending science against attacks from all sides, and debunking popular myths that do not align with scientific evidence. Last but not least, I will write about my German book, Scientific Temper, particularly for those who don’t read German.
You can find articles and information in English and German on our website, where you can also support our work.
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