By Shawn Kimuli

On Saturday, October 4, 2025, the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) officially opened the 3rd Industrial Education Pavilion at the ongoing 31st Uganda International Trade Fair in Lugogo, Kampala an event that brings together government officials, educators, and industrial leaders to discuss the future of skills development, innovation, and industrialization in Uganda.

Representing the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, the State Minister for Higher Education, Dr. Chrisostom Muyingo, reaffirmed government’s unwavering commitment to skilling Uganda through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). He emphasized that skilling and hands-on learning are now integral to Uganda’s National Development Plan IV (NDP IV) and key to transforming the nation’s workforce.

“TVET is no longer optional but a necessity for Uganda’s sustainable development,” Dr. Muyingo said. “Our education system must produce innovators, creators, and industry-ready professionals. The future lies in practical skills and industrial competence.”

He commended Kampala International University (KIU) for aligning its programs with the country’s industrialization goals, noting the university’s deliberate efforts to integrate digital transformation, innovation, and research within its teaching frameworks. “KIU continues to uphold international learning standards and embrace global solutions in this fast-evolving digital and industrial era,” he added.

KIU, one of the most distinguished participants among over 50 educational institutions at the pavilion, showcased its ongoing strides in research, innovation, and digital learning. The university highlighted its competence-based curriculum, which emphasizes applied knowledge, creativity, and practical problem-solving aligned with industry demands.

KIU Vice Chancellor, Professor Muhammed Ngoma, appreciated the government and UMA for their leadership in promoting industrial education. He reaffirmed KIU’s position as a leading institution of innovation and applied research, preparing graduates to actively contribute to national development and global competitiveness.

“At KIU, we are intentional about producing graduates who not only seek employment but create it,” said Prof. Ngoma. “Our research and innovation ecosystem is designed to empower students to design solutions that drive industry, sustainability, and growth in Uganda and beyond.”

The Executive Director of UMA, Dr. Ezra Muhumuza Rubanda, underscored the urgent need to nurture industrial education from the early stages of learning.

“The demand for industrial education is huge,” Dr. Rubanda noted. “Young learners must be taught how to think and act as industrialists early on if Uganda is to build a strong, self-reliant economy.”

Adding his voice, Mr. Aga Sekalala Jr, Board Chairman of UMA, called upon all stakeholders to actively support initiatives aimed at equipping students with technical and industrial skills. “We must collectively strengthen the bridge between classrooms and industries to ensure our youth are prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead,” he said.

The 31st Uganda International Trade Fair, held under the theme “Sustainable Industrialisation for Inclusive Growth, Employment, and Wealth Creation,” features more than 1,500 exhibitors showcasing innovations, technologies, and services across multiple sectors. Running until October 12, 2025, the event provides a vital platform for collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers.

With the government prioritising TVET and industrial skilling, and institutions like KIU championing research, innovation, and competence-based education, Uganda is steadily building a future anchored on skills, productivity, and sustainable industrial growth.

Picture Credit: UMA