Museveni Pushes for Free Education, Calls for AI and Science-Focused Curriculum in Uganda
KAMPALA, April 29, 2025 – President Yoweri Museveni has reiterated his call for free education in government schools, linking the country’s development to widespread access to education rooted in science, technology, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Speaking during Uganda’s celebration of the International Day of Education at Kololo Independence Grounds, Museveni stressed the importance of equipping learners with practical and future-oriented knowledge, especially in the STEM fields.
“Once we’re ready, no child should be paying fees in government schools,” Museveni said. “But it’s not just about access — we must ask, what kind of education are we providing? Africa was colonized not for a lack of kings or priests but because we fell behind in science and technology. That must change.”
Museveni also addressed public fears surrounding AI, affirming that technology should be seen as a tool for empowerment — not a threat. “AI is part of understanding nature and solving human problems. It should complement, not replace, teachers,” he added.
AI and Education: A Complementary Approach
The event’s theme, “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation,” drew attention from policymakers and education stakeholders, including European Union Ambassador Jan Sadek, who echoed Museveni’s sentiments that AI should assist, not displace, human educators.
First Lady and Minister of Education, Janet Museveni, emphasized the urgent need for educational institutions to adapt. “AI is already shaping the global workforce. We must ask ourselves: Is human capital still relevant? Can AI and humans coexist effectively in education and beyond?” she posed.
She announced the Ministry’s Digital Agenda aligned with Uganda’s Vision 2040, which promotes tech-driven education and investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as key drivers of economic growth and job creation.
Skilling Uganda and the TVET Framework
Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, highlighted milestones under Uganda’s Skilling Uganda Strategic Plan (2012–2022), including modernizing TVET infrastructure and capacity-building for instructors.
She revealed the establishment of six centers of excellence offering internationally accredited programs:
- Uganda Technical College Elgon
- Uganda Technical College Bushenyi
- Uganda Technical College Lira
- Uganda Technical College Kichwamba
- Bukalasa Agricultural College
- Uganda Petroleum Institute Kigumba (specializing in oil and gas)
These centers are part of a broader effort to bridge the gap between education and employment, especially given that Uganda’s youth-dominated population faces rising job market demands.
TVET for Inclusive Growth
TVET is seen as a catalyst for inclusivity, skill development, and economic mobility — especially for persons with disabilities and marginalized communities. With only 45 out of 178 districts lacking a public TVET institution, the government aims for full national coverage soon.
“TVET is the bridge between education and work,” said Dr. Turyagyenda. “We must ensure Ugandan graduates are competitive, ethical, and equipped to thrive both locally and globally.”
