On Tuesday 18th March 2025, Eight Tech Consults carried out a Stakeholder Validation Workshop to review findings from the TVET Capacity Assessment to deliver Digital Programs in Software Engineering and Hardware Maintenance conducted under the 10X Program, a Mastercard Foundation funded initiative implemented by Outbox, Refactory Academy, Women in Technology Uganda, and UNCDF.
Uganda’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions play a crucial role in preparing youth for the digital economy. However, challenges such as limited funding, outdated curricula, lack of specialized trainers, and weak industry linkages hinder their ability to offer Software Engineering and Hardware Maintenance programs effectively.
The assessment gathered data from 628 respondents, achieving an impressive 97% response rate from the target population of 645. The participants were categorized as follows:
🔹 TVET Institution Administrators and Instructors – 167
🔹 TVET Policymakers and Regulators – 5
🔹 Students of TVET Institutions – 295
🔹 Alumni of TVET Institutions – 126
🔹 Industry Stakeholders – 30
🔹 Development Partners & NGOs – 5
Key Insights from the Assessment
- Institutional Capacity: Many TVET institutions have basic infrastructure but lack advanced digital labs and specialized faculty required to deliver digital programs.
- Curriculum Gaps: there is no existing accredited curriculum for delivery of digital programs in TVET as emphasized by 68% of the instructors, emphasizing the need for standardized curricula and industry-aligned training.
- Industry Collaboration: Only 40% of TVET institutions actively engage with industry, leading to a skills mismatch between graduates and job market demands
- Student & Alumni Feedback: Over 98% of students expressed strong interest in digital programs, while industry stakeholders confirmed high demand for practical tech skills.
Discussions during the workshop highlighted some key strategies to enhance TVET digital capacity like;
- Industry-driven curriculum development
- Investment in modern training infrastructure
- Stronger Public-Private Partnerships for sustainable funding
- Capacity-building for TVET instructors
As Eight Tech Consults, we are proud to have contributed to this conversation and look forward to seeing the findings drive meaningful change in Uganda’s digital skills ecosystem. We appreciate all stakeholders for their valuable insights and collaboration!
