KOLOLO, Uganda — President Yoweri Museveni has challenged Uganda’s education system to prioritize science and technology, including artificial intelligence, to drive the country and Africa out of poverty and secure a place in the global economy.
Speaking at the National Celebrations of the International Day of Education at Kololo Independence Grounds, under the theme “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation,” Museveni emphasized the necessity of scientific mastery for socioeconomic transformation.
“Africa was colonized because we lagged behind in science. While Europe had already discovered gunpowder, we were still using bows and arrows,” Museveni said. “Let that never happen again. That’s why I insist education must prioritize science, technology, and now artificial intelligence (AI). These are not foreign ideas; they are tools we must master to solve our problems.”
Museveni encouraged Ugandans to embrace AI, viewing it as a logical extension of human understanding. “Artificial Intelligence is not magic. It is simply about using knowledge to address human challenges. We must harness it to improve agriculture, health, education, and security,” he stated.
He also stressed that while humanities and social sciences are important, they must be grounded in a robust scientific foundation to foster development. “You cannot talk about entrepreneurship without understanding the science of production,” he added.
The president’s remarks align with the government’s ongoing efforts to reform the education sector, particularly through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), which aims to equip students with practical, job-ready skills.
First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Museveni, echoed the president’s call, highlighting the ministry’s commitment to developing an employer-led TVET system that meets Uganda’s labor market needs.
She praised the recent passage of the TVET Act 2025 as a significant step in streamlining the sector.
“TVET is not just about trades. It’s about innovation, job creation, and inclusion. It is the foundation for economic resilience,” she said. “Through Presidential Skilling Hubs, we are already seeing youth who were previously out of school begin to innovate and create solutions. All they need is support to scale.”
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education, Kedrace Turyagyenda, said the International Day of Education celebration reflects Uganda’s long-term education vision, which emphasizes science and skills development.
“Technical education is no longer an alternative—it is the new standard. As we invest in TVET and STEM education, we are setting the stage for Uganda’s industrial and technological takeoff,” she said.
Museveni also reiterated his call for the full implementation of Universal Free Education in public schools, condemning the imposition of fees that hinder access for many students.6 “We must eliminate all charges in public schools. Education must be truly universal,” he stressed.
The event was attended by ministers, members of parliament, development partners, and diplomats, who collectively emphasized the importance of investing in science, technology, and youth skills.
