Only way to compete with imports is quality  — Vocational skills graduates told

KAMPALA - The head of curriculum, Pedagogy and Educational Technology at Kyambogo University, Dr. Jimmy Luyima, has urged graduates to use the skills they have learned from the vocational training to produce local products.

He noted that many items that can be produced locally are still being imported into the country.

Luyima was chief guest on May 3, 2026, at the 19th graduation ceremony at Norfolk Vocational Training Institute-Nakwero, in Wakiso district.

The 28 students who graduated pursued certificates and diplomas in electrical installation, hair dressing and salon, catering, early childhood development, fashion design and tailoring, and motor vehicle mechanics.

Luyima emphasised quality in production, so there is preference for local products on the Ugandan market.

“For those of you who have graduated in electrical installation and motor vehicle mechanics, know this; AI is now part of our life. It has transformed the industry from reactive manual labour to proactive,” Luyima said.

He added, “Be honest and professional as you do business, so as to build trust. This is the only way to attract and retain clients,” he said.

Some of the graduates who attended the ceremony. (Credit: Fred Mubanda)

Luyima also advised the graduates to upgrade their education from certificates to Bachelor’s degrees. He noted that the Government is in the process of phasing out qualifications less than the latter.

The institute’s director, Bishop Dr. Ivan Lugoloobi, encouraged the graduates to be unique in doing business so they can stand out in the highly competitive job market.
He also urged discipline.

Graduates speak out

Alisson Sadick, who graduated in motor vehicle mechanics, said he was inspired by the way mechanics diagnose complex issues of car components such as the engine and electrical systems.

He says he found the use of specialised tools fascinating.

“I hope to set up a garage to train the youth and create employment opportunities. This way, I can help to bridge the skills’ gaps in the automotive sector,” Sadick said.

Lukia Nakiyimba graduated with a certificate in fashion, design and tailoring. She says she loves the industry because it enables her to enjoy the fast-paced environment where trends change often. She hopes to put her creative ideas to paper and maybe get her foot into the clothing industry globally.

Nakiyimba had some advice for parents: “Make vocational courses an option. They are not a fallback option for academic failures. Fashion and design, for example, is a highly professional field internationally.”