Kampala, 23rd September 2026

The Board has commenced the September 2026 assessment of Informally Acquired Skills (IAS), with 21,004 candidates registered to have their competences assessed and formally recognised. The assessment, which commenced today, will run until 25th September 2026 across 203 accredited Assessment Centres. Of the registered candidates, 16,663 are undertaking Modular assessments, 1,021 are registered for the Worker’s PAS, while 3,320 are registered for Full Occupational Levels I-IV. Female candidates account for 12,430 (59.17%), while 8,572 (40.81%) are male.

The Executive Secretary, Onesmus Oyesigye (CPA), said the assessment provides an important pathway for individuals who have acquired skills outside the conventional formal training system to have their competences recognised and certified. “The assessment of Informally Acquired Skills provides an opportunity for individuals who have acquired skills through informal learning pathways to have their competences assessed and certified against prescribed occupational standards.” The IAS assessment enables individuals who have gained skills through work experience, apprenticeship and other practical learning pathways to obtain formal recognition of the competences they have acquired.

Oyesigye said the assessment is part of UVTAB’s broader mandate to ensure that skills are assessed against established occupational standards and that certification reflects what individuals are able to demonstrate in the world of work. The certification of informally acquired skills enhances the economic value of individuals by formally recognising their competences, while building public trust and confidence in the quality of work they deliver. This, in turn, contributes to improved livelihoods, productivity and the socio-economic development of individuals and the nation at large.

The September assessment series has also provided an opportunity for persons with special needs to participate in the national skills certification process. A total of 645 candidates with special needs, comprising 400 females and 245 males, have registered for the assessment. The Board has put in place appropriate measures and reasonable accommodations to support these candidates and ensure that they participate in the assessment process fairly and with dignity.

The Executive Secretary called upon candidates, Assessment Centres, assessors and other stakeholders to adhere to the approved assessment procedures throughout the exercise. “We call upon all candidates, Assessment Centres, assessors and other stakeholders to observe the approved assessment procedures and maintain the integrity, confidentiality and security of the assessment process throughout the assessment period.”

He further cautioned all stakeholders against involvement in any form of assessment malpractice, noting that maintaining the credibility of the assessment process is essential to ensuring that certification remains a reliable reflection of competence.

The Board has wished all candidates success as they undertake the September 2026 assessment series and encouraged them to remain focused and demonstrate the skills they have acquired.

“Assessment for Employable Skills.”