education 11 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda to Implement New Competence-Based Curriculum in Higher Education by 2027
The National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) has announced that a new competence-based curriculum will be rolled out across all higher education institutions starting in the 2027-2028 academic year, aiming to produce graduates with enhanced practical skills and knowledge. The reforms include involving industry experts in curriculum development and shifting assessment methods to prioritize practical competencies. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/nche-announces-rollout-of-new-competence-based-curriculum-for-higher-education-5455626
Uganda’s higher education sector is set to undergo a significant transformation with the introduction of a new competence-based curriculum, slated for implementation in the 2027-2028 academic year. The National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) announced the upcoming change, which aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes to excel in their professional roles.
According to NCHE Executive Director Prof. Mary Okwakol, the new approach will guide institutions in developing curricula that are aligned with industry needs. A key feature of this reform is the mandatory inclusion of practitioners and industry experts in the curriculum design process. This ensures that the education provided is relevant and prepares graduates for the demands of the modern workforce.
Furthermore, assessment methods will evolve to place a greater emphasis on practical skills. At least 50 percent of a student’s marks will be derived from continuous, competence-oriented evaluations, marking a shift from the current exam-centric system. This revised approach applies to both professional and non-professional programs across all higher education institutions.
The Ministry of Health has welcomed these changes, with Ms. Evelyne Kyomugisha, Acting Commissioner for Nursing and Midwifery, highlighting the critical need for highly competent healthcare professionals. She emphasized that in an era of advancing medical technologies and complex patient needs, nurses and midwives must be equipped with up-to-date skills and knowledge to provide quality care.
Kyomugisha also addressed the role of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare, stating that while AI will be embraced to enhance knowledge, it will not replace the essential human touch and empathetic care provided by nurses and midwives. The profession faces a significant demand, with Uganda requiring thousands of additional nurses and midwives, particularly specialists in critical care areas.
This new curriculum is expected to better prepare graduates across various fields, ensuring they possess the essential competences and attitudes required to meet evolving societal and professional challenges. The initiative is seen as a crucial step towards producing a more capable and adaptable graduate workforce for Uganda.