The Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB) has launched its first national assessment, marking a significant milestone in the country’s technical and vocational education and training (TVET) sector.
Established under the TVET Act, UVTAB merges the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT) and Uganda Business and Technical Examinations Board (UBTEB).
UVTAB’s inaugural assessment has attracted 53,707 candidates registered at 478 accredited centers nationwide.
Among these, 13,000 candidates from informal training centers are being assessed at Level One and Two qualifications.
The board has deployed 367 scouts to monitor the exercise and 849 assessors to evaluate learners’ hands-on skills.
UVTAB Executive Secretary Onesmus Oyesigye highlighted the challenge of high costs of materials required for practical assessments, which are passed on to candidates.
However, the board is exploring sustainable solutions, including promoting the use of low-cost, locally available materials.
Meanwhile, Dr. Nahamya Karukuza Wilfred, Deputy Executive Secretary for Examinations Management, emphasized the board’s commitment to inclusivity, noting that 110 persons with disabilities have been registered for the assessment.
UVTAB aims to develop curricula that include tailored training and assessment solutions for learners with disabilities.
The board’s creation aims to consolidate TVET assessment functions, eliminating fragmented processes.
UVTAB became operational following the gazettement of the TVET Act Commencement Instrument on March 14.
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