Museveni lauds Ntare School Education and Career Expo

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President Yoweri Museveni has expressed government commitment to prioritize education, with a focus on ensuring that every Ugandan child has access to quality education that empowers them to succeed in a dynamic and competitive global environment.

Museveni’s message was delivered by Dr Chris Baryomunsi, Minister for Information, Communication, Technology and National Guidance, who represented him at the opening of four days Education and Career Expo on Wednesday.

The Expo, “Transforming Ambitions into achievements: Your Career, your future,” is hosted at Ntare School Grounds-in Mbarara City and it has attracted thousands of participants from different parts of the country including participants from the diaspora.

(Credit: Abdulkarim Ssengendo)

The President informed participants at the Expo that his government is well strategic to improving the education sector, especially in equipping youth with the knowledge, skills and opportunities necessary to succeed in an ever-evolving global economy.

“As we advance in the digital age, we recognize that the world is changing rapidly, new industries are emerging, the demand for specialized skills is growing, and the very nature of work is being transformed. Our youth must be ready to meet these challenges,“ the president stated in a speech delivered by Baryomunsi.

The president noted that the government has made significant strides in building a comprehensive education system that not only focuses on academic excellence but also on equipping students with practical skills that are directly aligned with the demands of the modern economy.

He also reminded them of significant reforms and achievements in Uganda’s education sector since 1986. He also reminded the participants that the introduction of UPE has facilitated the reduction of disparities in education access between urban and rural areas, gender hence more equitable education opportunities.

The policy he said, has contributed to improved literacy rates particularly in rural areas, with increased enrolment of 8.5 million by 2022 up from 3.1 million in 1986.

Commenting on the USE program, the president said this has significantly increased the enrolment of students from 420,000 in 2006 to over 1.5 million by 2020 which is more than 250% and the program has helped to reduce the dropout rates at the secondary level, particularly among girls.

Commenting on quality teaching, the President said the NRM government has worked to improve the welfare of teachers, recognizing that quality education is closely tied to the quality of teaching. He also reminded them of the reforms taken to improve the relevance of the education curriculum, in making it more practical and responsive to national and global needs.

Dr Chris Baryomunsi, Minister for Information, Communication, Technology and National Guidance poses for a group photo with Ntare School staff and other guests shortly after opening the Uganda Education and Career Expo held at Ntare Grounds in Mbarara City. (Credit: Abdulkarim Ssengendo)

Expo unlocks vocational careers

The President hailed the organizers of the Education and Career Expo noting that the event is a vital step in supporting the government's effort to build the education system by equipping students with practical skills. According to Zam Nabirye, CEO Nadah Events, the Expo organizer, the event is aimed at bridging the gap between education and career aspiration by equipping participants with the knowledge, skills, and connections necessary for academic and professional success.  

“This landmark event will provide a dynamic platform for students, job seekers, and professionals to explore career opportunities, access educational resources, and engage in impactful networking with top industry leaders, Nabirye stated.  

The Uganda Education and Career Expo 2025 has incorporated a multifaceted approach to ensure that all stakeholders including students, parents, educators, and professionals derive maximum benefit.

Education is vital for nation building, says expert Prof. Vic Benuyenah from Bermingham University, who delivered keynote speeches at the Expo encouraged students to utilize every opportunity around them to acquire knowledge that will shape their future. Benuyenda rallied all Ugandans to embrace education noting that it has (education) a direct relation with nation building.

He informed them that countries like South Korea managed to develop fast because they treasured education.

Delivering a keynote address; Martin Kananura, Vice chairman board of governors Ntare School, challenged parents to reduce pampering and teach their children to work hard and groom them to become dependable, respectful and respectable adults.

“In spite of all these opportunities to study well, only a few can speak correctly or properly. What is most disturbing is that very few of them can think for themselves, the majority lack common sense, the majority are still struggling to find their feet at the age of 30 and they find it difficult to do things on their own because they were used to being helped to think and do things,” Kananura added.

Saul Rwampororo- head teacher Ntare School, said the expo was designed to connect students with a wide selection of educational institutions, industries, and professions.

Rwampororo hailed the government for placing a significant emphasis on improving education, government skills, and youth empowerment as central pillars of the nation’s development.