Secondary Schools in Uganda face renewed calls for curriculum overhaul under youth-led reform push

By Asante Times Admin 

 

Kampala, Uganda – May 2026

A youth-led education reform initiative under Apex Digital Skills has submitted a memorandum to the Ministry of Education and Sports proposing structural changes to Uganda’s secondary school system, with emphasis on early career specialization and stronger practical skills development.

The memorandum, addressed to the Minister of Education and Sports through the Permanent Secretary and copied to the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC), argues that the current system delays career readiness and places heavy focus on theoretical learning.

 

proposal targets early career tracking in secondary schools

 

The submission recommends introducing career specialization at Senior Three (S.3), reducing compulsory subjects at O-Level, and integrating digital literacy, applied technology, and entrepreneurship into core learning areas.

It also proposes a fast-track pathway for high-performing learners to transition earlier into skills training, employment, or entrepreneurship.

According to the initiative, these reforms are intended to make the education system more responsive to labour market demands and improve student outcomes.

 

ministry directs physical submission for formal processing

 

The initiative says it received guidance from the Office of the Permanent Secretary at 11:20 am, advising that the memorandum must be submitted in hard copy for official registry entry and processing.

The group had initially submitted the document via email but reported delays in acknowledgment, leading to the decision to proceed with physical delivery as the formal route.

Officials reportedly emphasized that hard copy submission ensures proper documentation, tracking, and routing within government systems.

 

students highlight pressure and employment concerns

 

Student voices included in the debate reflect concern over the length and relevance of the education pathway.

Muhanguzi Matthew Paul, a Senior Three student, said the education system includes many subjects that are not aligned with future career needs.

 

“The education journey is too long and we study unnecessary subjects for one’s career,” he said, calling for reforms that improve efficiency and relevance.

 

Luzinda Enock, a student at Kabuye Memorial School, said many learners spend long years in school but still struggle to find employment.

 

“We study for so long and end up with no jobs. Even those who didn’t attend school sometimes end up better than you,” he said, adding that earlier work opportunities would improve livelihoods.

 

debate intensifies on education relevance

 

The proposal comes amid continued public debate on Uganda’s education system, particularly concerns over graduate employability, theoretical learning, and limited practical training.

The initiative argues that introducing earlier specialization could help bridge the gap between schooling and employment by allowing learners to focus on career-relevant skills sooner.

 

independent civic initiative behind proposal

 

Nyanzi Martin Luther, Head of Operations at Apex Digital Skills, said the memorandum is an independent civic contribution aimed at strengthening education policy discussions.

He noted that the group is following official procedures to ensure proper submission, registration, and consideration within government systems.

 

outlook

 

The memorandum is expected to enter formal review once physically received and registered by the ministry.

No official timeline for response has been provided, as such submissions typically undergo technical and policy assessment before feedback is issued.

For now, the proposal adds to a growing national conversation on education reform, particularly around curriculum structure, skills development, and improving alignment between education outcomes and labour market realities.