Kampala International University (KIU) has joined the national campaign to promote industrial education, showcasing its innovations and hands-on learning approach at the 31st Uganda International Trade Fair in Lugogo, Kampala.
The university participated in the 3rd Industrial Education Pavilion, an initiative of the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) aimed at aligning education with national industrialization goals through skills development and innovation.
Representing the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, State Minister for Higher Education, Dr. Chrisostom Muyingo, reaffirmed government’s commitment to advancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
“TVET is no longer optional but a necessity for Uganda’s sustainable development,” Dr. Muyingo said. “Our education system must produce innovators, creators, and industry-ready professionals. The future lies in practical skills and industrial competence.”
He commended KIU for integrating innovation, research, and digital transformation into its academic programs, describing the university as a model for competence-based education in the region.
KIU’s exhibition highlighted its research and innovation ecosystem, which emphasizes applied learning, creativity, and problem-solving aligned with industry needs.
Vice Chancellor Professor Muhammed Ngoma thanked UMA and the Ministry of Education for championing industrial education, noting that KIU’s mission is to produce job creators rather than job seekers.
“At KIU, we are intentional about producing graduates who not only seek employment but create it,” Professor Ngoma said. “Our innovation ecosystem empowers students to design solutions that drive sustainability and growth.”
UMA Executive Director Dr. Ezra Muhumuza Rubanda stressed the need to promote industrial education from early learning stages.
“The demand for industrial education is huge,” Dr. Rubanda said. “Young learners must be taught how to think and act as industrialists early on if Uganda is to build a self-reliant economy.”
UMA Board Chairman Mr. Aga Sekalala Jr urged collaboration between educators and industry players to strengthen the bridge between classrooms and the job market.
Held under the theme “Sustainable Industrialisation for Inclusive Growth, Employment, and Wealth Creation,” the trade fair features over 1,500 exhibitors from multiple sectors. It runs until October 12, 2025, providing a platform for dialogue and partnership between academia, government, and the private sector.
With the government prioritizing TVET and institutions like KIU leading in innovation-driven education, Uganda’s journey toward skills-based industrialization continues to gain strong momentum.
