By Diana Kintu
Kampala, July 2024 – In a major step towards improving technical education, all tutors and lecturers at Uganda’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions are required to renew their practicing licenses within an eight-month period. This directive was issued during the inauguration of the TVET Council by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Museveni, at State House Nakasero.
The newly established TVET Council, which officially began its work on March 15, 2024, will act as the governing body for the sector, with responsibilities to:
- Register and certify all TVET educators.
- Supervise the accreditation of institutions.
- Implement the recently passed TVET legislation.
Primary Focus Areas
Officials from the Ministry of Education emphasized that the registration of tutors and lecturers and the standardization of institutions are top priorities for the Council in its first year. The seven-member Council is led by former UNRA Executive Director Allen Kagina and includes members Sikander Lalani, Douglas Opio, Eng. Ziria Tibalwa Waako, Dr. Tonny Tumwesigye, Jeanne Byamugisha, and Diriisa Ssekitoleko.
Creation of Skills Development Fund
One of the major reforms introduced by the Council is the establishment of the Skills Development Fund (SDF), which the First Lady described as “an essential initiative to support TVET.” This fund will:
- Require monthly contributions from employers with five or more employees.
- Be managed according to regulations set by the Education and Finance Ministries.
Council Chairperson Kagina stated: “We will involve the media to widely share our plans for enhancing TVET.” This initiative aims to professionalize Uganda’s vocational training sector and uphold quality through standardized certification.