KAMPALA — Calls for reforming Uganda’s secondary education system are intensifying after a youth-led initiative submitted proposals urging the government to rethink the structure of learning to better align with modern job market demands.
The recommendations were presented by Apex Digital Skills to the Ministry of Education and Sports and copied to the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC), highlighting concerns that the current system delays workforce readiness and places limited emphasis on practical skills.
Push for early specialisation
At the centre of the proposal is a shift toward career specialisation at Senior Three (S.3), alongside a reduction in the number of compulsory subjects at O-Level.
The group also advocates for stronger integration of: digital literacy, applied technology and entrepreneurship.
Additionally, the memorandum proposes a fast-track pathway for high-performing students to transition earlier into skills training, employment, or business.
According to the initiative, these changes would make education more responsive to labour market realities and improve learning efficiency.
Formal submission process underway
The group said it received guidance from the Office of the Permanent Secretary requiring the memorandum to be submitted in hard copy for official processing.
“Hard copy submission ensures proper tracking, documentation, and routing within government systems,” officials reportedly advised.
The move followed delays in acknowledgement after the proposal was initially shared via email channels.
Debate on education relevance grows
The proposal adds momentum to an ongoing national debate about the relevance of Uganda’s education system, particularly concerns about graduate employability.
Critics argue that the current curriculum is overly theoretical, leaving learners with limited exposure to practical, job-ready skills.
Proponents of reform say earlier specialisation could help bridge this gap by enabling students to focus on career pathways sooner.
Independent civic contribution
Nyanzi Martin Luther, Head of Operations at Apex Digital Skills, said the memorandum is intended to contribute to policy discussions rather than represent a formal government position.
“This is an independent civic contribution aimed at strengthening education policy dialogue,” he said, adding that the group is following official procedures to ensure proper consideration.
Awaiting government response
The Ministry is expected to review the proposals once formally registered, though no timeline has been indicated.
As discussions continue, the submission reflects growing public interest in reforms that could better align education outcomes with employment opportunities and Uganda’s broader economic transformation goals.