The Kampala Metropolitan Vocational Skills Competition and Skills Fair, hosted by Lugogo Vocational Training Institute (VTI), was a significant event that underscored the importance of vocational education in combating youth unemployment, poverty, and skills shortages in Uganda. Held last week, the event brought together a diverse group of participants, including trainees, educators, employers, parents, and development partners, under the theme “Choose vocational education, get skilled, and be unstoppable.”
In his remarks, Innocent Kemigisha, representing the Commissioner for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), highlighted the transformative power of skills acquisition as a route to self-reliance. Kemigisha emphasized that the theme of the event was not only inspiring but also aligned with the changing landscape of vocational education in Uganda. He noted that with the implementation of the TVET Act 2025, Uganda’s vocational sector has entered a new era, bringing structural reforms to policy development, training delivery, and regulation. This reorganization, he believes, will enhance the efficiency and quality of training, with significant improvements expected once all sector arms are fully operational.
The event held special significance for Lugogo VTI, which marked its 70th anniversary in 2025. Principal Wilson Tumuhamye reflected on the institute’s legacy, noting that since its founding in 1954 as a national trade testing center, Lugogo VTI has produced generations of skilled workers who have made notable contributions to Uganda’s national development. Tumuhamye expressed pride in the institution’s historical role and its ongoing evolution, particularly highlighting the current efforts to finalize the formation of a new Board of Governors in line with the TVET Act.
Supported by Enabel through the WeWork Green and Decent Jobs Project, funded by the European Union and Belgium, the event featured a series of live competitions where trainees showcased their skills in woodwork technology, electrical installation, and building construction. These practical demonstrations highlighted the talent and potential of Uganda’s youth and offered a glimpse into the growing importance of vocational education in driving the country’s economic transformation.
A key highlight of the day was the collaboration between Lugogo VTI and Enabel, which has greatly contributed to the institute’s development. Since their partnership began in June 2024, significant strides have been made, including staff training in artificial intelligence, ICT, gender-responsive teaching, and competence-based training. Tumuhamye proudly announced that Lugogo VTI is on track to be recognized as a Centre of Vocational Excellence, thanks to the strategic plan developed with Enabel.
The fair also aimed to change perceptions about vocational training, challenging gender biases and misconceptions that have traditionally limited participation in TVET. By showcasing live demonstrations and providing career guidance, the event emphasized that vocational skills are a valuable path to employment, entrepreneurship, and national development. Tumuhamye reiterated that the fair targeted youth, parents, women, and the broader community, aiming to inspire a shift in attitudes toward vocational careers.
In closing, Tumuhamye expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda, the Ministry of Education and Sports, the European Union, the Government of Belgium, and other development partners for their support. He encouraged the trainees to use the event as a springboard for further professional growth and to take pride in the bright future that lies ahead in vocational careers. He also commended the instructors and staff for their dedication to shaping Uganda’s next generation of skilled professionals.
The fair was part of a broader initiative led by Enabel to improve access to vocational training opportunities and foster a deeper understanding of the role TVET plays in Uganda’s green and inclusive economic transformation. The event signaled growing recognition of the critical role that vocational skills play in addressing the country’s employment challenges, with a particular focus on building confidence in vocational education as a pathway to sustainable development.
