More girls are making their mark in the male-dominated field of automotive mechanics in Uganda, , challenging stereotypes and contributing to the diversification of technical education. One such trailblazer is 19-year-old Alexar Nalwanga, an automotive mechanics student at Vision Africa Vocational Institute in Mukono. Clad in a dark green overall, Nalwanga confidently performs diagnostic tests on vehicles, showcasing her skills in a traditionally male-centric domain.
The shift in gender dynamics within technical education is attributed to recent reforms, particularly under the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) policy of 2019. The policy aimed to promote inclusivity and provide equitable access to technical education across genders. During a recent tour by the state minister for primary education, Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, positive trends were observed in various TVET institutions, with an increasing number of female students enrolling in courses traditionally considered male-centric.
Mary Nabuuma, the principal of Vision Africa Vocational Institute, highlighted that the institution now admits a significant number of female students in courses such as shoe repair, woodwork, electrical engineering, leather tanning, welding, and metal fabrication. Previously, outreach programs were necessary to attract female students, but the changing perceptions of TVET and the decentralized admission process have contributed to a more balanced enrollment.
Dr. Denis Mugimba, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Education and Sports, emphasized that the decentralized admission process, implemented two years ago, has facilitated increased female enrollment in TVET. This shift not only aligns with gender inclusivity but also contributes to making TVET more relevant to the needs of the Ugandan population.
During her visit to Nakawa Vocational Institute, Minister Kaducu expressed satisfaction with the diverse practical skills exhibited by both male and female students. She emphasized the need for equal opportunities and acknowledged that there is still work to be done in creating incentives and budget allocations to further promote female enrollment in TVET.
Institutions like Vision Africa Vocational Institute are actively guiding female students and showcasing the career progression possibilities within TVET. The practical nature of TVET courses, coupled with the prestige associated with breaking gender norms, has made technical education an attractive option for both male and female students.
While acknowledging the progress, Minister Kaducu and educators recognize the ongoing efforts needed to ensure gender inclusivity and provide equal opportunities for all students in the TVET sector.
