The Committee on Education and Sports in Uganda has called for the Uganda Business and Technical Examinations Board (UBTEB) to extend vocational training to prison inmates. Legislators raised concerns regarding the lack of educational packages for prisoners, similar to those provided for refugees. UBTEB’s Executive Director indicated the organization’s need for funding to enhance vocational programs, emphasizing their role in rehabilitation and skill development.
The Committee on Education and Sports in Uganda has urged the Uganda Business and Technical Examinations Board (UBTEB) to broaden its vocational training initiatives to include prisoners. During a committee meeting on January 7, 2025, legislators expressed concerns regarding the existing vocational programs not being extended to prison inmates, despite UBTEB’s successful examinations in these facilities. Honorable Nathan Itungo highlighted the disparity, questioning why prisoners should not benefit from educational packages similar to those offered to refugees.
Committee chairman, Hon. James Kubeketerya, emphasized the need for UBTEB to extend its services to various regions, particularly those with educational centers in refugee settlements, as part of an effort to rehabilitate prisoners. Hon. Geoffrey Macho from Busia Municipality pointed out that districts, particularly business-oriented ones like Busia, would greatly benefit from enhanced vocational training, which he believes is critical for improving the business acumen of local traders.
Onesmus Oyesigye, the Executive Director of UBTEB, informed the committee about their financial needs, asserting that their commitments for the upcoming fiscal year remain underfunded. He requested Shs25 billion to revise the curriculum for 24 technical and vocational programs, along with an additional Shs6 billion to facilitate 12 assessment programs for vocational candidates. This appeal underscores the urgency for increased government support for vocational training in Uganda’s correctional facilities.
The discussion regarding vocational training in Ugandan prisons arises from a broader need for educational opportunities within correctional facilities and underprivileged communities, including refugee settlements. The appeal for enhanced vocational training services is driven by the recognition that education plays a vital role in rehabilitation and reintegration. As the Uganda Business and Technical Examinations Board seeks to fulfill its mandate, the inclusion of imprisoned individuals in vocational training programs is seen as a crucial step toward equipping them with practical skills necessary for their futures post-incarceration.
In conclusion, the committee’s advocacy for extending vocational training to prisoners aligns with the broader goal of enhancing rehabilitation efforts within Ugandan correctional institutions. By increasing educational access, particularly through programs offered by UBTEB, both prisoners and refugees stand to benefit significantly. The financial requests put forth by UBTEB highlight the pressing need for governmental support to facilitate these essential educational initiatives, which could ultimately drive positive economic and social change in the country.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
