education 9 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Higher Institutions Urged to Embrace New Competence-Based Curriculum
Universities and higher learning institutions in Uganda are being called upon to adapt to the new competence-based curriculum rolled out by the government. The shift aims to equip graduates with practical skills relevant to community challenges and the job market. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/don-t-frustrate-competence-based-curriculum-higher-institutions-of-learning-told-5452664
Higher learning institutions across Uganda face a crucial transition as they are urged to swiftly adopt the nation’s new competence-based curriculum (CBC). This educational reform, implemented in secondary schools since February 2020, moves away from rote knowledge towards practical skills and competencies.
Starting in August, universities will begin admitting the first cohort of students educated under the CBC. Stakeholders gathered at a workshop hosted by Bishop Stuart University emphasized the need for a flexible, engaging approach that fosters practical application and positive attitudes, rather than simply imparting knowledge.
“We do not want you to frustrate it,” stated Ms. Caroline Kavuma, registrar at the Uganda Institute for Teacher Education, highlighting that prolonged criticism from employers about “half-baked graduates” has plagued the higher education sector. She stressed that this CBC is an opportunity to regain public trust and become drivers of national transformation.
Bishop Stuart University Vice Chancellor, Professor John Mugisha, echoed these sentiments, calling for a mindset shift among lecturers towards critical thinking and the imparting of real-life skills. He warned that institutions must prepare to avoid becoming a point of blame for any shortcomings in the new curriculum’s implementation.
Dr. David Musimaami, principal Education officer at the National Council for Higher Education, confirmed that standards have been developed to guide institutions in aligning their programs with the CBC, with the aim of seamless integration for the upcoming academic year.
Students themselves recognize the potential of the CBC. “This is the curriculum that has been proved to be the best in helping us to be innovative, practical with employable skills that can also help us start our own jobs,” remarked Asia Asiimwe, a student at Bishop Stuart University, adding that if institutions fail to implement it effectively, secondary schools would paradoxically become more advanced.
This article is based on information published by Daily Monitor.