Museveni wants curriculum realigned to meet private sector demands

Some of the students who graduated at Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) in Mbale City on December 14, 2024. PHOTO/YAHUDU KITUNZI
What you need to know:
- According to President Museveni, the private sector has high demand for doctors, science teachers, nurses, engineers, and ICT experts.
- The president also blamed lack of career guidance in schools for fewer students pursuing science and ICT-related courses.
President Museveni has urged higher institutions of learning to prioritize science, innovation, and technology in their academic programs to fight youth unemployment.
“Restructuring the curriculum from primary to university is essential for producing graduates who can be absorbed into the job market. This move will help tackle the persistent issue of youth unemployment,” Museveni said in his remarks delivered by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja at the 33rd graduation of Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU.
At least 2,691 students graduated in various academic disciplines during the ceremony at its main campus in Mbale City on Saturday.
Museveni stressed that the private sector is the largest employer in the country as he called upon universities to realign their curricula to meet the sector's needs.
According to him, the private sector has high demand for doctors, science teachers, nurses, engineers, and ICT experts.
“We need to focus on science, innovation, and technology to equip our youth with the skills required by the private sector,” the president stated.
The president also blamed lack of career guidance in schools for fewer students pursuing science and ICT-related courses.
“It is essential for institutions to offer clear career guidance to help students make informed choices. This will reduce the gap between the education system and the labor market,” he added.
The prime minister noted that IUIU, which started in 1988, “has made a lasting impact on the country’s human capital.”
IUIU Rector Prof Ismail Simbwa Gyagenda, told thousands at the graduation that the university is committed to prioritizing science, innovation, technology, and medical research to further support the country’s development.
“We are aligning our strategic goals with the needs of the job market. IUIU will invest heavily in science and technology to contribute to Uganda’s growth,” Prof Gyagenda added.
“I am glad to report that this year, 1,503 graduands or 56% are females and 1,188 are males. The girl-child graduand statistics have increased by 2% indicating IUIU’s commitment to the girl-child education,” he observed.
IUIU council chairman Mohammad Altabtabaei said university intends to introduce more science and technology-based programmes in line with Uganda’s vision 2040.