Africa-Press – Uganda. Universities across Uganda are accelerating reforms to align with competency-based education, following a directive from the Ministry of Education and Sports, according to Vice Chancellor of Victoria University, Lawrence Muganga.
Speaking in reaction to the recent release of national examination results, Muganga noted that the current cohort of candidates did not study under the competency-based curriculum, meaning universities are still receiving students trained under the traditional system. However, he emphasized that a major transition is imminent.
“We expect the first group of learners who have gone through the competency-based curriculum to complete their cycle next year. Around March 2027, their results should be out, and universities must be ready to receive them,” he said.
Muganga revealed that both public and private universities have already received formal guidance from the Ministry, led by Janet Kataaha Museveni, requiring a systemic overhaul of teaching and learning approaches. The directive mandates institutions to transition from theoretical instruction to competency-based learning models that prioritize practical skills, application, and demonstrable outcomes.
Under this model, students are expected to “learn by doing,” with greater emphasis placed on the acquisition and demonstration of skills, rather than solely on theoretical knowledge. Muganga explained that this shift will require universities to redesign curricula, teaching methods, and assessment frameworks to ensure they align with competency standards.
The reforms are being guided by the National Council for Higher Education, which has developed comprehensive guidelines and standards for competency-based education. These include clear benchmarks for curriculum development and delivery, ensuring consistency and quality across institutions.
Importantly, Muganga noted that universities were actively consulted during the development of these guidelines. Vice Chancellors and other stakeholders participated in discussions that shaped the final framework, a move he described as critical for successful implementation.
“What the country needs to understand is that every programme in every university must now be driven by competency-based principles. There are no exceptions,” he emphasized.
At Victoria University, Muganga says the transition is already well underway. The institution has been implementing competency-based approaches for the past three years, positioning itself ahead of the curve.
“This is not something we are preparing for—it is something we are already doing,” he said, adding that even students from the current system will benefit from the more practical, skills-oriented approach once they join the university.
As Uganda prepares for the first graduates of the competency-based curriculum, the higher education sector is under pressure to ensure it can effectively absorb and train a new generation of learners equipped with practical skills tailored to the demands of the modern workforce.
