Uganda Christian University (UCU) has announced a major shift in its admission policy, stating that it will no longer admit students who studied under the old curriculum. Instead, the university is embracing a competency-based approach aimed at producing graduates with practical, employable skills.
Dr. John Kitayimbwa, UCU’s Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs, explained that the decision aligns with the evolving education landscape, which prioritizes skills development over traditional rote learning.
“We have stopped admission to the old curriculum and are taking this opportunity to realign it to become competency-based because you cannot pass on what you don’t have,” Dr. Kitayimbwa stated.
Dr. Mary Ocheng Kagoire, Dean of the School of Education at UCU, highlighted the importance of adapting teacher training to meet the demands of the modern classroom.
“As changes take place in the education system, we felt that instead of conducting in-service training for teachers in the field, it’s better that by the time students leave university, they are already competent enough to handle the new curriculum,” she said.
The revised curriculum, which was first introduced in 2020, focuses on developing critical thinking, creativity, digital literacy, numeracy, communication, problem-solving, collaboration, and self-directed learning.
To support this shift, UCU is implementing several key changes:
- Less time in classrooms – Students will attend classes for four days a week, with the fifth day dedicated to practical, hands-on experience.
- Entrepreneurial exposure – Students will engage in marketplace activities to develop business and financial management skills.
- Ongoing internships – Instead of a single two-month internship, students will participate in internships throughout their university journey, gaining continuous real-world experience.
Rev. Paul Kakooza, Director of Education at the Anglican Church of Uganda, welcomed the changes, noting that they align with the church’s mission for education reform.
“We appreciate these new developments aimed at improving the quality of teachers. We want to produce students who are able to start life and do something,” he remarked.
Dr. Kitayimbwa also expressed concerns that teachers trained under the old curriculum may struggle to adapt to the competency-based approach. He stressed the need for universities to reimagine their teacher training programs, ensuring future educators are well-equipped to deliver the new curriculum effectively.
UCU’s latest reforms mark a significant step towards bridging the gap between education and employment, ensuring graduates leave with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
