Uganda Launches TVET Reforms to Boost Employment

The Ugandan government has introduced reforms in the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector, aiming to expand opportunities for young people and reduce unemployment. Minister of Education and Sports Hon. Janet K. Museveni highlighted the sector’s potential to drive economic growth, saying, “These reforms will ensure our youth acquire the skills needed to compete in the global market.”

Key reforms will increase access to TVET programs, with special emphasis on infrastructure improvements and private-sector collaboration. The government plans to establish new institutions and modernize existing ones, making vocational training more accessible and relevant to current industry needs.

The Uganda Business Technical Examinations Board (UBTEB) also reported that recent initiatives have increased female graduation rates to 84%, largely due to targeted scholarships for “scarce skills” fields, such as engineering and mechanics. Minister Museveni celebrated this achievement, noting, “The 84% completion rate for female TVET students is a testament to the effectiveness of our special scholarships and decentralized admission system.”

To streamline governance, TVET institutions will use a new digital management system for better coordination and resource planning. Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, emphasized the importance of industry-relevant training, urging trainers to stay current with market trends.

UBTEB Chairman Dr. Eng. Silver Mugisha added that a robust TVET Qualifications Framework will be essential for creating standardized training programs that meet industry needs. “This framework is crucial for ensuring our training programs meet industry needs,” he explained.

With expanded facilities and modernized training standards, Uganda aims to produce a workforce equipped to meet the demands of a growing economy and strengthen its role in East Africa’s labor market.