THE CHEMISTRY DEPARTMENT

 Introduction:            

Chemistry is one of the core compulsory science subjects on Uganda’s National curriculum. At SHACK it is offered by all O-level students. At A-level, it is one of the principal subjects in the major science combinations; (Physics, Chemistry, Biology), (Physics Chemistry, Mathematics) and (Chemistry Agriculture Biology).

Staffing:

The subject is taught by a team of twelve (12) devoted Graduate teachers;

1. Mr. Nyombi Patrick
2. Mr. Ssebuguzi  Fulgensio
3. Mr. Wadribo Ronald
4. Mr. Baryabanohe Callistus
5. Mr. Bazongere Gerald
6. Mr. Mukwaya Joseph
7. Mr. Magala Alex
8. Mr. Mutemba Patrick
9. Mr. Kabuubi Robert
10. Mr. Kiwalabye Abelison
11. Mr. Kasagga Livingstone
12. Mr. Kateregga Mike
13. Mr. Ssemuwemba Ivan

 Activities:

The main activities include; introducing Learners to the world of chemicals, preparing Laboratory class experiments that make concepts easy and interesting, holding seminars, ensuring reliable and valid assessment.

 Facilities:

The department has three laboratories equipped with basic fittings, apparatus and chemicals. One for senior class and two for the lower classes.

There are enough text books accessible by teachers and students under the custody of the Jersey Library.

ABOUT CHEMISTRY

Many people have heard about the three main branches of organic, inorganic and physical chemistry. Chemistry in simple terms could be defined as the scientific study of the structure of substances, how they react when combined or in contact with one another and how they behave under different conditions. That well explains why someone would conclude that life cannot do away with chemistry.

Still, one would ask for the relevance of chemistry as a subject. Basing on the fact that it is compulsory straight from the start of O’level, it becomes obvious that indeed chemistry is worth it. How can one live on without knowing the composition of the simplest compound we all need-water? I mean to say, chemistry zeros down to the elements like hydrogen, gold, carbon, name it, which are all applicable in our daily lives in one way or another. Even compounds do not escape their scrutiny, take a look at ethanol, chloroform, and much more actually all of it.

The science minded brains further pursue it via A’level to build on their future careers. It is not only because of so but also because of the fun of working with chemicals. Take an example of burning a magnesium ribbon in air to give off a very bright light. It is just spectacular how those things happen. More so, look at neutralizing a base with an acid to form a salt and water or even how potassium reacts with water so vigorously to almost cause an explosion. Actually, the reactions of the various chemicals make chemistry something to give time.

Minding less the practical bit of it, the theory is so captivating. You can imagine how simple molecules of oxygen, the gas you are breathing in now, are held by weak van der Waal's forces. All approved by chemistry who knows, even the simple concepts of how common salt (sodium chloride) is formed through bonding, would not be known if it weren’t for chemistry.

Thanks to the chemistry department, all chemistry concepts are broken down for the students to learn. The well-equipped laboratories all add value to the whole thing making chemistry more interesting with the practicals done.

In conclusion, chemistry indeed describes what would have rather remained unknown in the world of science. By the way, though these concepts seem interesting, they may not be that easy to go by. Revision is still required to make these concepts seem easy.

THE BEST CHEMISTS OF 2018

Candidate	Chemistry 1	Chemistry 2	Chemistry 3	Grade
Ogellan Jonathan Noel (PCM/ICT) - 20 Points	D2	D2	D2	A
Lukwago Abubakar Munene (PCM/ICT) - 19 Points	D1	D1	D2	A
Ssewanyana Ernest (BCM/ICT) - 18 Points	C3	D2	D2	A
Ssozi Marvin (BCM/ICT) - 17 Points	C3	D2	D2	A
Kiwalabye Abelison (BCM/ICT) - 16 Points	C3	D2	D2	A

LONG LIVE SHACK CHEMISTRY DEPARTMENT

FOR GREATER HORIZONS

MR. BARYABANOHE CALLISTUS  (HEAD OF DEPARTMENT)