Mismatch Between Labour Force and Education System Continues to Affect Employability

The mismatch between Uganda’s labor force and the country’s educational system continues to be a significant concern for employers and private sector players.

Experts say this gap is affecting employability, with many graduates struggling to find meaningful work despite having qualifications.

The Programmes Manager at Enabel, Sophie Kyagulanyi, highlights that Uganda’s labor market suffers from a poorly skilled labor force, leaving many qualified individuals unable to secure the right jobs.

“Many Ugandans are qualified, but their skills do not match the market demands, which limits their opportunities for employment,” Kyagulanyi says.

A Makerere University graduate, Deo Kawuki, shared his personal experience, explaining how inadequate internship training left him underprepared for the job market.

“During my three-month internship, I wasn’t given quality time or proper experience. When I got my first job, I lacked the skills and experience needed, which eventually led to my dismissal.”

Kawuki later enrolled in a six-month work readiness program at Enabel, which he credits for equipping him with the skills necessary for the workforce.

“Through our program, we reached 1,165 individuals, 75% of whom have successfully transitioned into employment,” Kyagulanyi says.

The Private Sector Foundation Uganda is also working to address this issue. Project Director Ronny Mulongo notes that the private sector is keen to tap into a pool of well-trained individuals to meet their labor needs.

“Our aim is to bridge the gap by ensuring that training programs align with the demands of the private sector to create more employment opportunities.”

Despite these efforts, unemployment remains a persistent challenge in Uganda. According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), the country’s unemployment rate stands at 2.83% in 2023, underscoring the need for more interventions to equip the labor force with relevant skills.

As programs like Enabel’s continue to provide hope for many, experts emphasize the importance of aligning educational curricula with market demands to address the ongoing labor force challenges.