Members of Parliament are urging the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) to limit universities to offering only degree and postgraduate programmes, while reserving diploma and certificate courses for tertiary institutions.
The legislators argue that the move would streamline Uganda’s higher education sector and help clearly distinguish the mandates of universities from those of technical and vocational institutions.
According to the MPs, the current overlap—where universities offer certificate and diploma courses—has blurred institutional roles and contributed to duplication of programmes. They contend that refocusing universities on degree and postgraduate training would enhance academic standards, promote research, and strengthen the country’s higher education framework.
The proposal also seeks to empower technical and vocational institutions to concentrate on practical skills development through certificate and diploma training, a move lawmakers say would boost employability and address gaps in technical expertise.
If adopted, the changes would require policy adjustments by NCHE to redefine programme accreditation guidelines and institutional mandates.
The Council has yet to formally respond to the legislators’ call.
