The State Minister for Gender and Culture, Peace Mutuuzo, has urged stakeholders to prioritise human capital development by enhancing adult education systems.
Speaking at the inaugural East African Conference on the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), held in Kampala, Mutuuzo emphasised the importance of empowering the workforce to drive socio-economic development.
"Having quality qualifications, tools, and skills aligns with our need for an empowered workforce that can accelerate socio-economic progress," Mutuuzo said.
Organised in collaboration with DVV International, a global advocate for lifelong learning, the conference focused on building comprehensive adult education systems that acknowledge and validate informal and non-formal learning.
The event drew participants from various East African countries, including policymakers, education experts, and development partners, to discuss strategies for inclusive learning frameworks.
Mutuuzo highlighted that enhancing the quality of human resources through lifelong learning initiatives is key to improving service delivery across sectors.
She called for a systematic approach to adult education, focusing on inclusivity and the recognition of existing skills and experiences.
"Developing robust adult education systems ensures that every individual, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to national development," she added.
According to Uganda's Ministry of Education and Sports, recognition of prior learning is still in its infancy, with ongoing efforts to establish a clear framework for implementation.
The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) reports that 68% of adults in Uganda lack formal certification for their skills, limiting their access to formal employment opportunities.
DVV International's Regional Director for East and Horn of Africa, Frauke Heinze, reiterated the importance of RPL in addressing these gaps.
"Recognition of Prior Learning is not just a tool for education but a driver for economic growth and social equity," he said.
The Ministry of Gender, Labor, and Social Development's Commissioner in charge of Community Development and Literacy, Everest Tumwesigye, highlighted the progress made in realising RPL in the country.
"In Uganda, initiatives to improve adult education have gained momentum through programs such as the Functional Adult Literacy (FAL) program, which has reached a significant number of the population. However, challenges such as inadequate funding and low awareness persist, hence slowing down full realisation of the project," Tumwesigye said.
Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters
Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox
As efforts mount to ensure high-quality qualification frameworks, stakeholders have committed to developing policies that integrate RPL into the broader education system. "This is a step forward in creating a society where everyone's knowledge and skills are valued and utilised," Mutuuzo remarked.
The event underscored the growing need for inclusive education systems that address the realities of the workforce and the broader community, reinforcing lifelong learning as a cornerstone of sustainable development.
