Uganda is positioning itself to become a continental leader in technical and vocational education and training (TVET), guided by the TVET Policy 2019 and the newly enacted TVET Act 2025.
According to Dr. Eddy Turyatemba, Assistant Commissioner for TVET in the Ministry of Education and Sports, the new law provides a strategic framework for modernizing vocational training and aligning it with Uganda’s national development goals.
“The TVET Act establishes the TVET Council and the Uganda Vocational Training Assessment Board (UVTAB),” Dr. Turyatemba explained. “Together, they are driving a shift towards modular, competence-based training that prioritizes skills mastery over academic timelines.”
The TVET Council will oversee policy direction, financing mechanisms, and the licensing of private institutions, while UVTAB will handle curriculum development and coordination of sector skills councils.
Dr. Turyatemba said the reforms come at a crucial time when youth unemployment remains a pressing challenge in Uganda and across Africa.
“TVET is no longer a fallback in our strategic pathway to productivity, innovation, and inclusive growth,” he said.
CHANGING PERCEPTIONS AROUND VACATIONAL TRAINING
For years, technical and vocational education was widely perceived as an option for low academic performers. However, that perception is changing as more people recognize TVET’s vital role in addressing skills shortages and unemployment.
Education experts note that TVET equips learners with practical, job-ready skills that are in high demand by employers, enhancing both employability and economic growth.
“TVET programs equip individuals with skills and knowledge that make them more attractive to employers,” Dr. Turyatemba said, adding that the Government of Uganda recognizes vocational education as a strategic pillar for skilling, employment, and national development.
PROMOTING SKILLS THROUGH COMPETITIONS
To cultivate a skilled workforce, the Ministry of Education and Sports, together with partners such as WorldSkills Uganda and Enabel (the Belgian Development Agency), organizes annual national skills competitions. These events allow students from technical and vocational institutions to compete in different trades, showcasing innovation and practical ability.
“Skills competitions ignite passion, boost confidence, and raise the bar for training institutions,” Dr. Turyatemba said. “They inspire youth to pursue mastery and encourage educators to continuously improve.”
Analysts argue that a strong TVET system positions Uganda at the forefront of transformation—ensuring its graduates are competitive both locally and globally while contributing significantly to economic growth.
