education 19 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
TVET Not a Second Choice, Officials Emphasize
Education officials are urging students and parents to view Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a primary pathway to employment, rather than a fallback option. This call aims to elevate the perception and uptake of vocational skills development in Uganda. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/education/students-urged-not-to-treat-tvet-as-second-option-5637394
Students in Uganda are being strongly encouraged to consider Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a viable and valuable first choice for their post-secondary education. Dr. Loy Muhwezi, the Commissioner for TVET within the Ministry of Education and Sports, has highlighted the critical need to shift the perception of vocational training from being a secondary or last-resort option.
Dr. Muhwezi emphasized that TVET programs are designed to equip students with practical, in-demand skills that directly address the needs of the labor market. These skills are crucial for national development and economic growth. The commissioner stated that by embracing TVET, young people can gain meaningful employment opportunities and contribute effectively to various industries.
The push for TVET as a primary choice comes amidst concerns that many students opt for traditional academic routes, leading to a surplus of graduates in some fields and a shortage in others, particularly in technical and vocational trades. This imbalance can hinder economic progress and lead to unemployment.
TVET institutions across Uganda offer a wide range of courses in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, hospitality, and information technology. These programs are often tailored to provide hands-on experience, internships, and apprenticeships, ensuring graduates are job-ready upon completion.
Parents and guidance counselors are also being urged to play a more active role in promoting TVET. By understanding the diverse career paths and earning potential associated with vocational training, they can better advise students on making informed decisions about their educational futures. This collaborative effort is seen as essential in building a skilled workforce capable of driving Uganda’s development agenda forward.