The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education and Sports, Kedrace Turyagyenda, has called on employers across the country to adopt more flexible work policies that allow employees to study while working.
Dr. Turyagyenda says supporting working learners is critical to strengthening Uganda’s skilled workforce, particularly at a time when the country is prioritizing technical and vocational education and training (TVET) as a driver of economic growth.
“Employers should create opportunities for their staff to upgrade their skills without necessarily leaving their jobs,” she emphasized, noting that continuous learning is essential in today’s evolving job market.
The Permanent Secretary highlighted that many Ugandans are eager to improve their qualifications but are often constrained by rigid work schedules and limited institutional support.
She explained that allowing employees to attend classes, sit assessments, or enroll in flexible learning programmes would not only benefit individuals, but also improve productivity and innovation within companies.
Education officials argue that a more skilled workforce will help Uganda meet the demands of industry, especially in sectors that require practical and technical expertise.
The call comes amid increased government efforts to expand access to TVET programmes, with thousands of learners enrolling in skills-based training across the country.
Dr. Turyagyenda stressed that building a competitive workforce is a shared responsibility between government, training institutions, and the private sector.
She urged employers to view employee education not as a disruption, but as an investment that yields long-term benefits.
“Supporting staff to learn while they work is a win-win for both the employer and the employee,” she said.
Her remarks reflect a broader shift toward lifelong learning, where workers are encouraged to continuously upgrade their skills to remain relevant in a changing economy.
As Uganda deepens its focus on skills development, stakeholders say collaboration between employers and educators will be key to ensuring that training translates into real workplace competence.
