KAMPALA, UGANDA – The Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) has extended its congratulations to one of its directors, Mr. Stefan J. Kmpagi, upon the successful conclusion of his impactful service on the council of the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT). The announcement celebrated his dedicated representation of the manufacturing sector and his role in advancing vocational training in the country.

This transition highlights the critical importance of having seasoned industry leaders actively involved in national policymaking bodies that shape the future of Uganda’s workforce. For manufacturers, the work done at institutions like the DIT is fundamental to solving one of the sector’s most persistent challenges: the skills gap.

The Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT) is mandated by the government to set occupational standards and regulate quality assurance in industrial training. This includes assessing and certifying the skills of workers across various trades. Having a representative from UMA on its governing council ensures that these standards are not just academic exercises, but are practical, relevant, and directly aligned with the evolving needs of the modern factory floor.

Bridging the Gap Between Education and Industry

For years, Ugandan manufacturers have faced a “skills mismatch,” where graduates often lack the specific, hands-on competencies required by industries. This forces companies to invest significant time and resources in re-training new hires.

The presence of industry experts like Mr. Kmpagi on the DIT Council is a core part of the solution. They provide invaluable, real-world feedback on curricula and assessment standards, ensuring that Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs produce graduates with skills that are immediately applicable. This direct link between industry and training institutions is crucial for:

• Developing Relevant Curricula: Ensuring training programs teach the skills that are actually in demand.
• Promoting Practical Assessments: Championing competency-based assessments that value practical skills over purely theoretical knowledge.
• Enhancing Competitiveness: Building a talent pipeline that enables Ugandan manufacturers to improve quality, innovate, and compete on a regional and global scale.

Championing Skills Development and Worker Certification

UMA’s involvement in the DIT council also helps to champion crucial initiatives like the “Worker’s Practically Acquired Skills” (Worker’s PAS) certification. This program formally assesses and certifies the skills of experienced workers who may not have formal academic qualifications. For manufacturers, this is a vital tool for benchmarking the skills of their existing workforce, facilitating promotions, and fostering a culture of professional development.

As Mr. Kmpagi concludes his service, UMA has emphasized its ongoing commitment to policy advocacy in skills development. The association continues to believe that a well-trained, competent, and adaptable workforce is the ultimate bedrock for a thriving manufacturing sector. By actively participating in shaping the future of TVET, UMA is ensuring that the industry has the human capital it needs to drive Uganda’s economic growth and create sustainable employment for years to come.