NCHE Validates Sembabule Woman MP Florence Nambaziira’s Academic Papers in Court

The National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) has formally defended the academic credentials of Sembabule District Woman MP Florence Nambaziira before the High Court. Testifying before Justice Christine Akello, an NCHE official confirmed that Ms Nambaziira’s vocational qualifications meet the legal standards required to serve in Parliament.

Dr Rev Cyrus Sebugenyi, heading recognition and equivalence of qualifications at NCHE, stated that Ms Nambaziira holds a Grade III certificate from the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT). He explained that NCHE issued a certificate of equivalence after verifying her Level III certification in hairdressing, obtained through competence-based training at Mengo Vocational Youth Training Centre in 2023.

Under Ugandan electoral law, parliamentary candidates must possess at least a Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) or an equivalent qualification. Dr Sebugenyi defended the validity of skills-based education, emphasizing that practical vocational training is just as valuable as conventional classroom learning.

“This kind of learning that happens outside classrooms needs to be appreciated as well,” Dr Sebugenyi told the court during the proceedings.

The testimony forms part of an ongoing election petition filed by former Sembabule Woman MP Mary Begumisa. Ms Begumisa is seeking to overturn the election results, claiming that her successor lacks the necessary academic threshold. Beyond the academic dispute, the petition also alleges electoral malpractices, including ballot stuffing and violence during the January 15 polls, where Ms Nambaziira secured victory on the NRM ticket with 61,638 votes.

Following the testimony, Justice Akello instructed both legal teams to submit written arguments. The petitioner has until November 12 to file submissions, while Ms Nambaziira’s response is expected by November 27. The High Court has scheduled its final judgment for December 22.

Speaking to reporters after the court session, Ms Nambaziira urged the public to respect diverse career paths and vocational training, noting that many nations have advanced through technical skills development.

Read more details on this story from the Daily Monitor.