Uganda's Vocational Graduates Face Employment Hurdles Amidst Training Gaps

In Uganda, individuals completing vocational training often face an uphill battle convincing employers of their practical skills. This challenge stems from a multifaceted issue, beginning with a societal bias that views technical education as a less desirable alternative to academic pathways. This perception can lead to a lack of commitment from both families and students entering these programs.

Furthermore, many vocational institutions, particularly private ones operating on tight budgets, struggle to provide the necessary hands-on experience. The cost of materials such as bricks, cement, pipes, and electrical components is substantial, limiting opportunities for students to practice essential skills repeatedly. This scarcity means graduates may possess theoretical knowledge but lack the practical competence and confidence required by the job market.

Officials like Timothy Kalibala, academic registrar at the Royal Institute of Business and Technical Education, highlight that institutions cannot improve quality if the underlying attitude towards vocational education remains negative. He notes instances where children of deceased relatives are sent to vocational schools merely to be kept busy, rather than being prepared for self-reliance.

Efforts are underway to reform vocational training. The Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB) is working to better connect training and assessment with industry realities. Jalia Nasaza, deputy executive secretary for curriculum development at UVTAB, emphasizes the need for greater employer involvement in curriculum design and assessment to ensure graduates are job-ready. The revised curriculum will significantly increase the weight of practical assessments, with practical work accounting for 70% of the evaluation at the diploma level.

Additionally, the TVET Council is establishing sector skills committees to identify labour market needs and is monitoring graduate employability to pinpoint training deficiencies. Quality assurance is being tightened, with institutions required to have adequate infrastructure and qualified trainers before registration. The success of these reforms hinges on ensuring institutions have the necessary resources for effective practical training and that graduates emerge with demonstrable, job-ready skills.

https://nilepost.co.ug/news/377348/how-vocational-graduates-end-up-struggling-to-prove-their-skills