Uganda unveils sweeping education reforms, new health training policy at Hoima graduation
Dr. Turyagyenda highlighted that the education sector has taken a "tremendous step" towards transforming and ensuring competence-based education across all levels, with a particular focus on health training.
By George Busiinge
Uganda’s Ministry of Education is embarking on a significant transformation, embracing competence-based education and rolling out a new comprehensive policy for health education and training.
This pivotal announcement was made by Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education, in a speech delivered by Dr. Hajjati Safina Musene, Commissioner in charge of Health Education and Training, at the eighth graduation ceremony of Hoima School of Nursing and Midwifery recently.
Dr. Turyagyenda highlighted that the education sector has taken a “tremendous step” towards transforming and ensuring competence-based education across all levels, with a particular focus on health training.
She revealed that a new Health Education and Training Policy, which received Cabinet approval two weeks ago, will be instrumental in directing the full cycle of training for health workers in the country.
“Under this policy for health workers, we are looking at a full cycle of training a health worker,” Dr. Turyagyenda’s speech underscored, emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to equipping learners with practical skills vital for survival and professional excellence.
The Permanent Secretary noted that these new initiatives are part of a series of reforms already underway within the sector. These include the implementation of a lower secondary curriculum designed to place the learner at the center of learning, fostering skill development.
Additionally, the Training, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act 2025 has created a three-pronged framework encompassing regulation, assessments, and delivery of vocational training.
Dr. Musene further elaborated on the government’s support for human capital development through collaborative efforts involving the Ministries of Education, Health, and Water and Environment, aiming for a holistic approach to national development.
The occasion also marked a significant milestone for Hoima School of Nursing and Midwifery, where a total of 681 students were awarded certificates and diplomas. The graduating class comprised 566 females and 115 males, signifying a vital boost to Uganda’s healthcare workforce.
During the ceremony, Mark Kalanzi, the Principal of Hoima School of Nursing and Midwifery, appealed for an expansion of the institution’s infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of students.
Dr. Henry Wamani, the Chairperson of the Governing Council for the school, advised the new graduates to diligently apply the skills they have acquired to navigate and succeed in their careers.
