Enabel, in partnership with Lugogo Vocational Training Institute (VTI), hosted a Vocational Skills Competition in Kampala under the theme “Choose vocational education: Get skilled and be unstoppable.” The event formed part of a broader national effort to expand access to skills development, strengthen the visibility of technical training, and challenge perceptions that have historically undermined participation, particularly among young women and marginalised groups.   

The competition was designed to rebuild public confidence in technical and vocational education by showcasing the professional opportunities available within the sector. It also aimed to mobilise parents and communities to encourage young people in pursuing vocational pathways that lead to stable employment, sustainable livelihoods, and social mobility.   

Despite a strong national demand for skilled labour, vocational education is still widely undervalued and often viewed as a last resort rather than a viable and respected career option.   

Speaking at the event, Senior TVET Officer at the Ministry of Education and Sports, Innocent Kemigisha, called for an end to the belief that vocational training is only for academic underperformers. “We must break away from the misconception that TVET is a path for failures,” she stated.  

Citing global examples from Japan, Belgium, the United States, and South Korea, Innocent Kemigisha said that countries that invest in vocational training consistently achieve sustained industrial and economic growth. “Technical and vocational education equips learners with practical, marketable skills that drive meaningful employment and national development,” added Kemigisha.    

Emmanuel Kisangala, Project Manager for Enabel’s WeWork Project in the Kampala metropolitan area, emphasised the strategic role of vocational careers in innovation and job creation. “Uganda cannot afford to let stereotypes and gender biases hold young people back from opportunities in high-demand fields,” he said.   

Kisangala stressed that skills competitions play a vital role in restoring public trust in TVET and in encouraging youth to pursue emerging careers. “We want young people to see the potential in trades linked to renewable energy, green technologies, and other fast-growing sectors,” he noted.  

He further appealed to parents and guardians to encourage their children to acquire critical practical skills that Uganda urgently needs, including plumbing, electrical installation, metal fabrication, carpentry, construction, and renewable-energy systems.  

The Chief Head Trainer at Lugogo Vocational Training Institute, Wilson Muhammia, said the institute remains committed to delivering high-quality, competency-based training that responds to labour-market needs. “This event was designed to inspire youth, parents, and communities to embrace vocational education as a powerful tool against unemployment and poverty,” he said.  

Since June 2024, when the partnership between Enabel and Lugogo VTI started, the institute has undergone major institutional strengthening to position it as a model centre of vocational excellence. The staff had their teaching skills enhanced through targeted training in artificial intelligence, information and communications technology, and gender-responsive teaching and workplace practices.  

“The institute has also acquired skills for conducting trainee tracer studies, improving competence-based training delivery, and implementing a new joint strategic plan to drive long-term performance and sustainability,” said Wilson.  

The Skills Competition offered trainees a dynamic platform to demonstrate their abilities in real time, emphasising the transformative potential of vocational training in developing Uganda’s skilled workforce. Outstanding performers were recognised in woodwork technology, electrical installation systems and management, and the building and construction sectors.  

This year’s competition aligned closely with ongoing national reforms, including the rollout of the new TVET Act in March 2025, which seeks to elevate vocational training to industrial standards and position TVET at the centre of Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.  

As Uganda moves toward industrialisation and expands its green and innovation-driven sectors, investment in high-quality TVET will remain essential. The competition demonstrated that when young people, parents, institutions, and communities champion skills development, Uganda builds a stronger workforce, enhances productivity, and accelerates economic transformation. 

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