The Ministry of Education and Sports, in partnership with the Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB), has issued a strong warning to individuals operating unlicensed vocational and technical institutions, saying such schools will be closed and their owners arrested and prosecuted.
The warning was delivered by the Deputy Executive Director of UVTAB, Dr. Wilfred Nahamya, while addressing parents, students, political leaders, and education stakeholders during the 5th Annual Katerera County Education Forum held at Archbishop Bakyenga Vocational Secondary School in Katerera, Rubirizi District.
Dr. Nahamya emphasized that anyone intending to establish a vocational or technical school must first obtain the necessary government approvals and licenses. He said institutions operating without official clearance put learners at risk by failing to meet the required education standards.
He revealed that UVTAB, working alongside security agencies, has already begun inspecting institutions suspected of operating illegally and warned that those found violating the law will face legal action.
“Government welcomes private investors to establish vocational and technical institutions because they help reduce school dropouts, promote hands-on skills, and create employment opportunities. However, no one will be allowed to operate such a school without first meeting all legal and quality requirements,” Dr. Nahamya said.
He also encouraged parents and learners to embrace vocational and technical education, noting that practical skills training equips young people with the ability to create jobs and secure sustainable livelihoods. He stressed the need to keep children in school and ensure they complete their education before enrolling in accredited vocational training institutions.
Educationist Byamukama Innocent Salongo urged parents to pay greater attention to the education of the boy child, warning that neglect has exposed many boys to drug and substance abuse. He called on parents to actively monitor and counsel their children to help them remain focused on their studies.
Salongo also encouraged learners to work hard, remain disciplined, and maintain peace in schools. He praised the Katerera Education Forum for raising parental awareness about the importance of education, while identifying poverty, poor parenting, domestic violence, substance abuse, and school dropouts as major factors affecting learners’ academic performance.
Meanwhile, Rubirizi District LC5 Chairperson Agaba Obed Byakureka appealed to parents to take greater responsibility for their children’s education and upbringing. He warned that families that fail to educate their children risk producing individuals who may end up engaging in crime, drug abuse, prostitution, or vagrancy.
Byakureka further called for stronger collaboration among parents, teachers, and local leaders to combat school absenteeism and dropouts. He urged teachers to remain professional and strengthen guidance and counseling services, saying learners perform better when they are treated with care, love, discipline, and respect.
The annual Katerera County Education Forum brought together education stakeholders to discuss strategies for improving education standards, promoting vocational skills training, and strengthening parental involvement in children’s education.
