Government has announced plans to establish a specialised university dedicated to technical and vocational education, in a move aimed at strengthening skills development and creating opportunities for graduates of technical institutions to advance their education without leaving the vocational training pathway.
The announcement was made by Godfrey Kawanguzi, Assistant Commissioner for Technical and Vocational Education, during the first graduation ceremony of St. Charles Lwanga Technical Institute Butende in Masaka City.
The Catholic-founded institution, which has been operating for 44 years, celebrated its first cohort of graduates from technical, business and entrepreneurship programmes.
Speaking at the ceremony, Kawanguzi said the government recognises the growing role of technical and vocational education in driving Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.
“Government has decided to establish a specialised technical university where graduates from technical institutions will be able to progress from diploma level to bachelor’s, master’s and even doctoral degrees without leaving the technical education pathway,” Kawanguzi said.
He added that the initiative will help address the skills gap by creating a continuous education system tailored to practical and technical professions.
Kawanguzi also commended the Catholic Church for its contribution to Uganda’s education sector through the establishment of institutions that equip young people with employable skills.
“The Church has made an enormous contribution to Uganda’s education sector by establishing institutions that equip young people with practical skills needed in today’s labour market,” he said.
The graduation ceremony began with a thanksgiving Mass led by Rev. Fr. James Ssendegge, Pastoral Coordinator of Masaka Diocese, on behalf of the Bishop of Masaka, Rt. Rev. Serverus Jjumba.
Fr. Ssendegge said technical institutions play a critical role in national development by producing skilled professionals capable of promoting innovation, entrepreneurship and industrial growth.
“Graduates of technical institutions have a huge responsibility to transform society through innovation, creativity and practical solutions to everyday challenges,” he said.
The Resident City Commissioner for Nyendo-Mukungwe Division, Mariam Kaberuka, encouraged graduates to focus on productivity, personal growth and entrepreneurship rather than relying on government support.
“The political season is over. This is the time to work and improve your lives. Instead of blaming the government, first ask what you can do to improve your own situation,” Kaberuka said.
She urged graduates and parents to embrace self-reliance as a pathway to economic empowerment.
Masaka City Mayor Florence Namayanja Mukasa challenged the graduates to take responsibility for environmental conservation as they enter the workforce.
“Environmental destruction is becoming a serious concern. As you begin your careers, be responsible citizens who protect the environment for future generations,” she said.
Masaka Diocesan Education Secretary Rev. Fr. Michael Kamulegeya reminded the graduates that professionalism must be matched with discipline and integrity.
“Your character will be just as important as your qualifications. Be honest, disciplined and committed to doing what is right,” he advised.
Chairperson of the Institute Governing Council, Msgr. George William Lubega, cautioned graduates that the labour market is increasingly competitive and requires resilience.
“The journey ahead is not easy. Be resilient, remain focused and never stop learning if you want to succeed,” Lubega said.
The Principal of St. Charles Lwanga Technical Institute, Archilles Kiwanuka, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to producing innovative graduates equipped with practical skills.
“Our mission remains to transform Uganda by producing graduates with practical skills, creativity and a strong work ethic,” Kiwanuka said.
Institute Director Rev. Fr. Kizito Kaganda said the institution’s mission extends beyond academic training to developing responsible and ethical citizens.
“We train our students not only to become skilled professionals but also responsible, ethical and God-fearing members of society,” Fr. Kaganda said.
The ceremony brought together religious leaders, education officials, parents and community members who celebrated the achievements of the graduates, including priests and religious men and women who completed various programmes at the institution.