IIP

Igniting Interest in Physiology: Raising Awareness and Inspiring A-Level Science Students to Pursue the Field

Igniting Interest in Physiology: Raising Awareness and Inspiring A-Level Science Students to Pursue the Field

The project sought to inspire A’ level science students to develop an informed interest in physiology as a field of study and future career pathway. Three schools were visited, (St. Kagwa Bushenyi High School: 48; Plus Two High School: 79; Basajjabalaba Secondary School: 40) engaging 167 students through keynote addresses, interactive sessions with physiologists, and practical demonstrations. Certificates of participation were awarded to school heads and team members, reinforcing the message of physiology advocacy. The project successfully raised awareness, fostered enthusiasm, and provided lasting educational resources for continued use. 

Background & Purpose 
Physiology is a core biomedical science, but remains underrepresented at the pre-university level in Uganda. Limited exposure often results in low enrolment in physiology-related programmes. This project was designed to address that gap by engaging directly with A-level students and teachers, showcasing the discipline’s relevance, and stimulating interest in physiology as a viable and rewarding career. 

More Details

Project information

Main Events/Activities: 

  • Outreach visits to three A-level schools. 
  • Keynote address by guest speaker- Assoc. Prof. Samuel O. Okello from Makerere 
    University, Uganda. 
  • Interactive engagements with practicing physiologists, including career guidance. 
  • Simulation and laboratory demonstrations to illustrate physiological principles. 
  • Production and distribution of flyers, posters, handouts, and lecture slides. 
  • Presentation of certificates of participation to school heads and all project team members, serving both as recognition and as a reminder to sustain physiology awareness. 

Key Participants: 

  • 167 students from the three schools. 
  • 9 Science teachers who actively engage in discussions and feedback sessions. 
  • 1 Guest speaker and 6 physiologist facilitators.  

Highlights: 

  • Strong student curiosity during Q&A and discussions. 
  • Simulation demonstrations that effectively linked theory to real-world physiology. 
  • Certificates were presented to school heads as a formal commitment to continue 
    encouraging students to consider a career in physiology. 

Planned Outcomes Achieved Outcomes
Increase awareness of physiology among 50 A’ level students from five schools Achieved across three schools with an increased number (167) of students reporting enhanced interest.
Deliver interactive sessions, including simulations and practicals Conducted successfully; strong student participation noted.
Provide reusable educational materials Flyers, posters, hand-outs, and slides were distributed in all schools.
Engage teachers and school leadership Conducted via feedback sessions and the awarding of participation certificates.
Strengthen networks between physiologists and schools New collaborations established, with requests from additional schools.

Evidence of Change: 

  • Student feedback reflected a clearer understanding of physiology’s scope and career prospects. 
  • Teachers expressed intention to integrate physiology-related examples in lessons. 
  • Certificates provided to school heads serve as a visible prompt to continue sensitising students. 

Broader Benefits: 

  • Strengthened networks between the university physiology community and local schools. 
  • Educational materials and certificates left with schools act as long-term resources and reminders. 

Unexpected Positive Effects: 

  • Requests from non-participating schools to replicate the programme. 
  • Teachers expressed interest in sustained mentorship and follow-up collaborations. 

  • Educational materials and certificates displayed in schools will continue to encourage student engagement with an interest in physiology. 
  • Teachers and school heads have pledged to use the resources in ongoing science teaching. 
  • The project team intends to expand outreach to additional schools, leveraging the goodwill and interest generated. 

Successes: 

  • High levels of student enthusiasm. 
  • Tangible recognition through certificates motivates both schools and team members. 
  • Creation of materials that will continue to benefit students and teachers. 

Challenges:

  • There is limited time for extended discussions during school visits. 
  • Demand exceeded the number of schools the budget could accommodate due to a change in strategy. 

Lessons Learned: 

  • Certificates proved highly effective as both recognition and advocacy tools. 
  • Visual and interactive approaches resonate most strongly with students. 
  • Future programmes should plan for wider scaling to meet high demand. 

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