Kyambogo University holds inaugural Vocational Studies Day

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Kyambogo University held a first-ever Day of Vocational Studies on Friday (March 21), reaffirming its status as a pioneer in vocational education and training in Uganda. 

Held at the university’s Central Teaching Facility, the historic event was graced by key education stakeholders, including representatives from the education ministry, academic leaders, and industry professionals.

The Commissioner for Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Loy Muhwezi represented the education ministry's permanent secretary, Dr Kedrace Turyagyenda, as the chief guest.

She highlighted the significance of vocational education in Uganda’s development agenda. 

Kyambogo University on Friday, March 21, 2025, held a first ever Day of Vocational Studies, reaffirming its status as a pioneer in vocational education and training in Uganda. (Credit: Kyambogo University/X)

She said vocational studies equip students with hands-on skills crucial for employment and self-sustenance, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 4 which promotes inclusive and quality education.

“The world is evolving rapidly, and the demand for a skilled workforce has never been higher," said Muhwezi.

"The Uganda Vision 2040 and National Development Plans III and IV emphasize the need for a skilled workforce to accelerate national development and job creation.

“Kyambogo University has demonstrated leadership in this area by fostering vocational-based teaching programmes at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels," added the chief guest.

Friday's event was themed around harnessing the potential of vocational studies to enhance human capital development and socio-economic transformation.

And its aim was clear: showcase the critical role of vocational training in shaping Uganda’s workforce. 

Officially established in 2022 after a restructuring of Kyambogo University, the School of Vocational Studies houses different departments: Family Life and Consumer Studies, Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Hotel and Institutional Catering, and Cosmetology and Fashion.

In her keynote address, senior lecturer Dr Grace Muhoozi highlighted the university’s historical contribution to vocational training and emphasized the need for greater collaboration between academia and industry to ensure graduates are equipped with market-relevant skills.

Catering students dispalying some of the foods they made during Kyambogo University's first ever Day of Vocational Studies. (Credit: Kyambogo University/X)

On his part, Dr. Milton Rukundo, the dean of the School of Vocational Studies, called for the institutionalization of this commemoration as an annual event.

“Considering this is our first celebration in history, it should be held annually to create more awareness about vocational studies,” he said.

A key highlight of the event was the recognition of former deans and long-serving heads of departments for their invaluable contribution to vocational education at Kyambogo University.

Among the awardees were Assoc. Prof. Habib Kato (1987–2009), Assoc. Prof. William Epeju (2009–2021), Prof. Bosco Bua (2012–2016), and Dr. Evelyn Isingoma B (2022–2024), alongside ten other distinguished professionals.

The event also featured an exhibition by students and staff, showcasing innovations and products developed within the university’s vocational departments. 

The exhibitions reflected the practical, industry-relevant training that Kyambogo University continues to champion.

As Uganda strives for economic transformation, vocational education is poised to play a pivotal role in equipping the next generation with the skills needed to drive development. 

With Kyambogo University at the helm of vocational training, the future of skills-based learning in Uganda looks promising.