Home/News & Updates/News & Stories

News & Stories

Official updates, milestones and stories from across UVTAB.

From the Board

Current institutional news in one trusted place

Stories are published directly by the UVTAB communications team and presented with their original publication dates and supporting media.

Stories: 7
Latest: 13 August

Featured story

UVTAB Board of Directors undertake governance training to strengthen leadership and institutional oversight

13 August 2026

UVTAB has commenced a governance training programme for its Board members and members of top management, aimed at strengthening their understanding of corporate governance, Board responsibilities and effective institutional oversight. The two-day training, taking place from today, 13th August 2026 to 14th August 2026, brings together board members and members of top management and is facilitated by the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (ICSA) Uganda. The training programme focuses on succession planning, Board evaluation, corporate governance, Board roles and responsibilities, committee structures, effective Board meetings and emerging trends shaping modern boardroom conversations. In her opening remarks, the Board Chairperson, Associate Professor Dorothy Okello welcomed the new members and emphasised the importance of establishing a clear understanding of the respective roles of the Board and Management. She noted that the Board brings together members representing different constituencies and stakeholder interests, creating a diversity of experience and perspectives necessary for effective governance of UVTAB. The Chairperson explained that while the Board provides strategic oversight and governance, management is responsible for the day-to-day running of the institution. “The Board has its own roles. Management also has its own roles.” She emphasised that understanding where the Board's mandate begins and ends, and where Management assumes responsibility, is essential for maintaining effective institutional leadership and accountability. Prof. Okello also encouraged the Board members to create an environment that allows for candid and constructive conversations. She noted that there may be instances when the Board needs to deliberate privately and openly on matters affecting the institution. She encouraged members to respect such spaces for reflection and vulnerability, noting that they are important in building a cohesive and effective Board. In addition, Eng. Rose Nakafu, a Board member, further welcomed the participants and encouraged them to actively participate in the training and draw from the experiences of Board members. “The training programme is building on previous governance engagements undertaken by the Board and seeks to deepen members' understanding of their responsibilities as custodians of institutional governance,” she emphasized. The Executive Secretary, Onesmus Oyesigye (CPA), underscored the significance of the training in strengthening the institution's governance architecture. He commended the Board members and top management members for making time for the two-day programme and noted that a shared understanding of governance principles is essential to effective oversight, accountability and the successful execution of UVTAB's mandate. The training programme covers areas including; succession planning and Board evaluation; corporate governance principles; the structure, roles and responsibilities of Board committees; best practices in Board meetings and committee papers; mental health; and emerging trends in boardroom conversations, including the growing influence of digital technology, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. These areas are increasingly important as institutions navigate a rapidly changing operating environment that requires the Board to remain informed, strategic and responsive. The participants were reminded that all governance and leadership efforts must ultimately contribute to UVTAB's mandate of ensuring credible assessment, curriculum development and certification of competencies for the world of work. As UVTAB continues to grow as Uganda's national assessment body, corporate governance is critical in ensuring effective systems to support the Board in executing their roles of oversight management and policy direction and management to implement the decisions of the Board. The training therefore marks another step towards building a Board that is well-equipped to provide strategic leadership, oversight and guidance while allowing Management to effectively execute the day-to-day responsibilities. “Assessment for Employable Skills”

Read full story

10 August 2026

UVTAB registers the smooth start of the July/August 2026 assessments across the country

10 August 2026 | Nyamitanga, Mbarara A total of 55,788 candidates across the country have today, 10th August 2026, commenced the July/August 2026 Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB) assessments. Of these candidates, 16,831 are female candidates. The Board continues to assess and certify skills in line with its mandate under the TVET Act No. 3 of 2025. A team from UVTAB, led by the Board’s communications team, visited Nyamitanga Technical Institute to witness the commencement of the assessments and engage candidates, assessors and the institution on the start of the assessment exercise. During the visit, the Principal Communications Officer, Kambaho Narasi Anyijuka, briefed the media on the commencement of the July/August 2026 assessment series, emphasizing the need to observe the UVTAB assessment rules and regulations for the smooth conduct of assessment. He further emphasized that candidates should desist from any form of malpractice. “I wish to caution all candidates to desist from being involved in any form of malpractice,” Kambaho noted. The team also toured different sections of Nyamitanga Technical Institute, where they observed several practical and real-life projects undertaken by students as part of their training. As part of its commitment to ensuring that assessment is accessible to all candidates, UVTAB has deployed support personnel to assist candidates with special needs during the assessment period. The board registered a total of 153 candidates with special needs for the July/August 2026 assessments. Among the candidates undertaking the assessments at Nyamitanga Technical Institute is Ainemukama Solomon, who was born with a hearing impairment. During the assessment, Solomon is being supported by Amutuhaire Vanessa, a support personnel provided by UVTAB to facilitate effective communication and ensure that he is able to participate fully in the assessment process. Speaking to the media, Solomon shared his experience as a candidate with a hearing impairment and expressed his appreciation for the support provided to enable him to undertake the assessment. The commencement of the July/August 2026 assessments marks another important step in UVTAB’s mandate to assess, certify and standardize skills, providing Ugandans with an opportunity to have their competencies formally recognized. These assessments will continue at accredited assessment centres across the country until 21st August 2026.

Read story

16 July 2026

UVTAB Unveiled as Official Partner of the Ankole Cup 2026

Kampala, Uganda | 16th July 2026 The Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB) has officially been unveiled as a partner of the Ankole Cup 2026, marking the beginning of a strategic collaboration aimed at advancing sports development through assessment, certification, and development of competency-based curriculum in Uganda. The partnership was announced during a press conference held today, 16th July 2026, at Kati Kati Restaurant, where UVTAB joined a host of other sponsors and partners in reaffirming their commitment to the annual Ankole Cup tournament, which has become a platform for identifying and nurturing sporting talent from across the Ankole region. The Ankole Cup continues to attract support from key stakeholders, including Members of Parliament, sports administrators, coaches, trainers, corporate partners, and football enthusiasts, underscoring its growing importance in Uganda's sports ecosystem. Speaking during the unveiling ceremony by the Ankole Cup organising committee, UVTAB Principal Communications Officer, Mr Narasi Kambaho, described the partnership as a significant milestone in strengthening sports professionalism as part of the broader skills development agenda."This partnership marks the beginning of a shared commitment to professionalise sports in Uganda through assessment, certification, and development of competency-based curriculum for various sports occupations in Uganda", Mr Kambaho said. He noted that under the TVET Act, 2025, Section 77 (5), UVTAB is mandated to assess and certify competences obtained through formal and informal Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and develop TVET curricula and training packages across various occupations, including sports education and training. "Working alongside fellow stakeholders, we aim to strengthen sports development from the grassroots to the national level, creating clear pathways for talented players to progress from competitions like the Ankole Cup into Uganda's leagues and beyond," he added. Mr Kambaho emphasized that the partnership reflects UVTAB's commitment to ensuring that sports practitioners, including athletes, coaches, referees, trainers, and other professionals, have opportunities to acquire nationally recognised certification that enhances employability and professional growth. He expressed optimism that the collaboration would extend beyond this year's tournament to support the long-term development of sports as a lucrative professional career in Uganda. The Ambassador for the players of the Ankole Cup, Paul Mucureezi, thanked UVTAB for partnering with the Ankole Cup tournament and applauded the Board's commitment to sports development. "I thank UVTAB for sponsoring the Ankole Cup 2026. This is a great initiative that will contribute to the growth of sports professions in our country," Mucurezi said. He encouraged participating teams and players to give their best throughout the tournament, noting that the partnership presents an added incentive for excellence on the pitch. "I encourage all players to work hard and compete fairly because opportunities await, including winning the Man of the Match award. Let this tournament be a platform to showcase your talent and discipline," he urged. With preparations now in high gear, organisers anticipate one of the most competitive editions of the Ankole Cup, bringing together talented footballers, passionate fans, and a growing network of partners committed to promoting sports excellence. Osborn Mushabe, Chairperson of the Organising Committee in charge of Publicity, commended the UVTAB for its sponsorship of the tournament, describing the Board's support as a significant contribution to its successful organisation. The sponsorship includes the provision of tracksuits for the two finalist teams and Members of Parliament, press jackets for media personnel, as well as sponsorship of the Man of the Match award and referees throughout the tournament. "UVTAB's contribution is a huge boost towards the success of the tournament, and we are indeed grateful for the sponsorship," Mushabe said. For UVTAB, the partnership represents more than tournament sponsorship. It is an opportunity to align sports with skills development by supporting the sector's professionalisation through competency-based assessment, certification, and curriculum development for various sports professions. As the Ankole Cup 2026 kicks off, UVTAB looks forward to a successful tournament and a fruitful partnership that will help build structured pathways for sports growth and development from grassroots competitions to national and international opportunities. UVTAB is going to work closely with the Sports academies, sports clubs and sports to streamline the conduct of assessment of trainees in the various sports disciplines, develop curricula for various sports occupations, including accreditation of Sports training academies as UVTAB Assessment Centre.

Read story

15 July 2026

Building Skills That Match the Future: Inside UVTAB's Drive to Shape Employer-Led TVET Curricula

For three days, the conference room was filled with a familiar sound, not the hum of machinery found in workshops or the buzz of classrooms, but the steady exchange of ideas. Around tables sat curriculum specialists, engineers, accountants, ICT professionals, business leaders, TVET trainers, HR practitioners and industry experts, each bringing a different perspective but united by one purpose of ensuring that what is taught in Uganda's Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions prepares learners for the realities of today's workplace. A consultative workshop, convened by the Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB) together with the Sector Skills Expert Committees (SSECs), was held from 6th to 8th July 2026 at Arch Apartments and Hotel, Ntinda, to review the newly developed Technician Diploma curricula in Business and Technology Education and Training. The exercise forms part of UVTAB's mandate under Sections 79 and 95 of the TVET Act, No. 3 of 2025, which entrusts the Board with developing and managing curricula in consultation with industry and TVET providers before approval by the TVET Council. Prior to the consultative workshop with the Sector Skills Expert Committees (SSECs), UVTAB undertook a series of structured curriculum development activities. These included a Training Needs Survey to identify industry workforce demands and skills gaps, occupational mapping to establish existing occupations across the Technology, Business and Education sectors, occupational profiling to define the duties and responsibilities of each occupation, competence profiling to determine the knowledge, skills and competencies required, and module development based on the validated competence profiles. These processes laid the technical foundation for the consultative workshop, where industry experts reviewed and validated the draft competency-based curricula to ensure they remain relevant, responsive and aligned to labour market needs. The significance of the workshop lay in a simple but critical question: Are Uganda's graduates being prepared for the jobs employers actually need? That question guided every discussion throughout the workshop. A total of 130 participants took part in the review, including 100 representatives from industry and 30 TVET trainers. Their task was to examine 34 draft Technician Diploma curricula, in areas of Technology Education and Training and Business Education and Training, to determine whether they align with the human capital priorities of the National Development Plan IV (NDP IV) and Uganda's employer-led Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) system. Unlike traditional curriculum reviews that focus largely on academic content, this exercise placed employers at the centre of the conversation. Industry experts scrutinized every module from the perspective of the workplace, asking whether graduates would possess the competencies needed to perform tasks in the industry. Every section of the curriculum came under review. Participants examined whether learning outcomes were observable and measurable, whether module objectives were clearly defined, whether the sequencing of learning made practical sense, whether trainee entry requirements and trainer qualifications were in line with the TVET Qualifications Framework, and whether the recommended tools, equipment, consumables, and assessment guidelines reflected current industry practice. Rather than simply approving the drafts, participants documented detailed recommendations through the SSEC-UVTAB Curriculum Critique Matrix. These recommendations will now be incorporated by UVTAB before the curricula are submitted for final approval by the TVET Council. This collaborative nature of the workshop reflected a growing shift in Uganda's TVET system, from designing education for learners to designing education with employers. Closing the workshop, Mzee Obadiah Lalobo, Board Member and Chairperson of the Committee on Curriculum and Industry Engagement, reminded participants that the quality of the country's TVET system depends on the expertise of those who understand the workplace best. "The depth of your industry experience is the very foundation of this process. It is your critical eye that ensures our training and assessment packages are not just theoretically sound, but practically viable for the modern workforce." He noted that the knowledge shared during the workshop represents an important contribution to Uganda's skills development agenda and affirmed that every participating Sector Skills Expert Committee member and industry expert would be formally acknowledged in the finalized Curriculum, Training and Assessment documents. "We deeply value this intellectual capital. Every participating Sector Skills Expert Committee member and industry expert will be formally recognized for their contribution in the finalized Curriculum, Training and Assessment documents." He further emphasized that the collective effort goes beyond curriculum development. "Our shared commitment is to build a truly employer-led, competency-based system that directly serves the economic priorities outlined in the National Development Plan IV." For many participants, the workshop demonstrated that curriculum development is no longer the responsibility of education experts alone. It requires continuous dialogue between training institutions and the industries that ultimately employ graduates. Also addressing participants, the Deputy Executive Secretary, in charge of Curriculum Development and Management, Ms Nasaza Jalia, commended the collective commitment demonstrated throughout the workshop and urged stakeholders to sustain the momentum as the curricula move towards implementation. "We must start the grade pathway as we are in motion. I thank the industry experts and all participants for your contribution, and we believe you have contributed to the TVET system of this country," she noted. That spirit of collaboration was echoed by curriculum development expert Racheal Nabukeera, who observed that one of the workshop's greatest achievements was bringing together curriculum specialists, TVET trainers, and employers around a common goal. She noted that employers provided valuable insight into the skills, knowledge, and professional attitudes expected of graduates, ensuring that the curricula reflect the realities of modern workplaces rather than assumptions made in isolation. The discussions, she said, reinforced the value of Competency-Based Education and Training as a practical approach that equips learners with the skills required for employment, productivity, and national development. Ultimately, the workshop represented far more than the review of 34 curriculum documents. It reflected a broader transformation taking place within Uganda's TVET system, one where industry no longer simply receives graduates but actively shapes their training; where curricula evolve alongside changing technologies and labour market demands; and where assessment is anchored on demonstrated competence rather than theoretical knowledge alone. As UVTAB continues to implement its mandate under the TVET Act, 2025, initiatives such as this ensure that curriculum development remains responsive, relevant, and future-focused. The outcome is expected to be graduates whose competencies match employer expectations, strengthen Uganda's workforce, and contribute meaningfully to the country's industrialization and socio-economic transformation. For Uganda's TVET sector, the conversations held over the three days were not merely about revising curricula. They were also about building stronger linkages with the industry, professional experts and TVET providers.

Read story

22 June 2026

Meeting with the Sector Skills Expert Committee

A meeting with the Sector Skills Expert Committee to validate draft curricula in the fields of Technology and Business was held on Friday 19th June 2026 at the UVTAB Secretariat , aimed at ensuring industry relevance, quality, and alignment with current workforce demands.

Read story

19 June 2026

UVTAB Partners with NURIN in the Launch of the First Apac Digital Innovation Challenge

The inaugural Apac Digital Innovation Challenge has marked a significant milestone in Uganda’s journey towards harnessing ICT for community development and youth empowerment. Organized through a strategic partnership between the Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB) and the Northern Uganda Resilience Innovation Network (NURIN), this groundbreaking event aims to equip young people with the digital and innovative skills necessary to build resilient communities. The event was held at Mayovu Hotel, Apac District, on 19th June 2026. Representing UVTAB’s Executive Secretary, Dr Nahamya Wilfred, expressed enthusiasm about the event’s success. “We are delighted to witness the first Apac Digital Innovation Challenge. This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to produce a competent, industry-ready workforce that can contribute to Uganda’s social and economic growth,” Dr Wilfred stated. The challenge’s theme, "Empowering Secondary and TVET students to build resilient communities through ICT integration," underscores the transformative potential of technology. It highlights how equipping youth with digital skills can lead to innovative solutions that address community challenges and foster sustainable development. In today’s digital era, the importance of integrating ICT into education and community initiatives cannot be overstated. “Our students must be prepared to thrive in this digital revolution,” Dr. Wilfred emphasized. “By fostering these skills, we open doors for students to develop solutions, start new enterprises, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.” Throughout the competition, students showcased projects demonstrating a deep understanding of community needs. Their innovative solutions reflect a strong commitment to solving real-world problems. “We encourage all participants to continue refining and implementing these ideas, transforming them from concepts into tangible benefits for their communities,” Dr. Wilfred added. UVTAB remains committed to promoting ICT adoption across all TVET curricula nationwide. “Digital skills are essential for empowering students to succeed in their careers and to actively participate in transforming Uganda,” he affirmed. UVTAB calls upon community leaders, school administrators, district authorities, and all stakeholders to strengthen their collaboration with NURIN. Together, they can leverage technology to stimulate economic growth, improve livelihoods, and enhance the quality of life across the country. The partnership between UVTAB and NURIN aims to bridge the gap between industry and education by fostering skills that meet labor market demands. “Our vision is a future where TVET graduates possess practical, hands-on skills that make them competitive and adaptable in a rapidly changing world,” Dr. Wilfred explained. He also urged students and educational institutions to embrace the opportunities ICT presents fully. “Innovation, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship are the keys to creating a better future,” he concluded. Expressing appreciation to NURIN for organizing the event at no cost and commendations to the participating students, Nahamya stated, “We look forward to seeing these innovative solutions further developed and implemented in schools and communities.” As the event concluded, UVTAB and NURIN reiterated their commitment to continue working together to build resilient, technology-driven communities. Wishing success to all participants, Nahamya emphasized, “Let us keep pushing forward as we prepare for the next Apac Digital Innovation Challenge.”

Read story

12 June 2026

UVTAB unveils new guidelines to promote inclusive TVET assessment for learners with disabilities

Extracted from PML Daily. KAMPALA – The Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB) on Wednesday convened a stakeholders’ meeting to validate Special Needs Education (SNE) Inclusion Guidelines aimed at making Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) curricula, assessment, and certification more inclusive for learners with disabilities and other special educational needs. The meeting brought together education officials, special needs education experts, development partners, and training providers to discuss the implementation of the guidelines, which are expected to strengthen equitable access to vocational training and assessment across the country. Speaking on behalf of UVTAB Executive Secretary Onesmus Oyesigye, Principal Curriculum Specialist Peter Oyo said the board remains committed to ensuring that assessment and certification systems are accessible, reliable, and responsive to the diverse needs of all trainees. Oyo explained that UVTAB is mandated to develop and review TVET curricula, assess and certify competencies, accredit assessment centres, and recognize skills acquired through both formal and informal learning pathways. “In line with the Government of Uganda’s commitment to inclusive development and the principle of leaving no one behind, a Special Needs Education Unit has been established to coordinate and promote inclusion across all functions,” Oyo said. He noted that the participation of learners with special needs in TVET assessments has steadily increased, with hundreds of candidates with disabilities, refugees, and other vulnerable groups having been registered and assessed in recent years. “The new Inclusion Guidelines provide a framework to ensure consistency, fairness, and quality in the delivery of inclusive assessment services. They will strengthen our efforts to implement national policies, support government priorities, and enhance quality assurance mechanisms,” he added. Oyo also acknowledged the contributions of technical experts, partners, and stakeholders who participated in developing and reviewing the guidelines, urging participants to actively contribute to their successful implementation. The Ministry of Education and Sports welcomed the initiative, describing it as a major milestone in advancing quality, equitable, and inclusive education. Assistant Commissioner for Special Needs Education Sarah Ayesiga challenged persistent societal misconceptions and discrimination against persons with disabilities, despite growing awareness and advocacy efforts. “We are living in an era where the light is on, yet there are still people living in darkness,” Ayesiga said, citing a recent case in which a school reportedly rejected a child living with albinism from joining its boarding section due to harmful myths and misconceptions. She emphasized that learners with disabilities should be viewed as individuals with abilities, talents, and potential rather than limitations. “If someone is blind or uses a wheelchair, society often asks, ‘How will you manage?’ instead of asking what support can be provided. Every child has potential, and it is our responsibility to help them explore and develop it,” she said. Ayesiga said the competency-based curriculum currently being rolled out in Uganda seeks to identify and nurture what learners can do rather than focusing solely on academic performance. “No child should be left behind or made to feel they cannot contribute because of their body or abilities. These guidelines will help us ensure accessibility, assess potential fairly, and support every learner to succeed,” she said. She called on vocational institutions, educators, and assessment bodies to commit themselves to admitting, supporting, and fairly assessing learners with disabilities. Meanwhile, UVTAB’s Allen Ayebazibwe provided an overview of the challenges that prompted the development of the guidelines, highlighting gaps within existing curricula and assessment systems. According to Ayebazibwe, candidates with visual impairments often struggle to complete practical assessments in areas such as computer applications and photojournalism, while learners with hearing impairments face difficulties in language practical examinations that require speaking skills. She also pointed to challenges faced by candidates with physical disabilities, including those with one hand or no hands, who are sometimes expected to undertake practical sign language assessments without appropriate accommodations. “Many of these candidates experience exclusion during training and assessment, including being left out of dormitories or learning activities. As assessors, we often face difficulties in determining the most appropriate support mechanisms,” Ayebazibwe said. She explained that the newly developed guidelines provide a framework for identifying and addressing such barriers through reasonable accommodations, resource allocation, and inclusive assessment practices. “The guidelines will ensure that assessment centres uphold the rights of candidates with special needs and provide the necessary support to enable them to demonstrate their competencies fairly,” she said. Stakeholders were urged to support the implementation of the guidelines and work collectively to create a TVET system where all learners, regardless of disability or circumstance, have equal opportunities to acquire skills, demonstrate competence, and obtain certification. The validation meeting marks another step in Uganda’s efforts to strengthen inclusive education and ensure that vocational training institutions are equipped to serve all learners without discrimination.

Read story