National Council of Higher Education Celebrates 20th Anniversary

By Winfred Mutekanga

The National Council of Higher Education (NCHE), established under the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act 2001 (amended), marked its 20th Anniversary at a celebratory event held at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds. The commemoration was graced by the First Lady, Janet Museveni, who also serves as the Minister of Education and Sports.

NCHE’s primary mandate revolves around regulating higher education provision and advising the government on higher education policy matters within the nation. During the event, First Lady Janet Museveni and Minister of Education and Sports took a moment to commend the initial ministers who played pivotal roles in regulating higher education within the framework of NRM governance.

Drawing a metaphor, First Lady Janet Museveni likened the establishment of institutions to the birth of human beings, emphasizing that the National Council of Higher Education came into existence in 2001. She elaborated that just as human beings were entrusted with the stewardship of Earth’s creations by God, NCHE was created as a steward for education, acting on behalf of the Ministry of Education and Sports, while remaining accountable to it.

Mrs. Museveni further emphasized that the anniversary celebrations serve as an occasion for the government to reflect on its accomplishments through the diligent efforts of the council. She noted that at the time of NCHE’s establishment, the nation had four public universities, seven private universities, and 50 other tertiary institutions. Presently, this landscape has witnessed significant growth.

Highlighting this progress, she underscored that the increase from 20 years ago, when there were only 4 public universities, to the current total of 265 higher education institutions is clear evidence of the conducive environment created by the government, fostering such growth.

Looking ahead, Mrs. Museveni stressed the importance of NCHE positioning itself as a catalyst for transforming Uganda into a hub for higher education within the East African region during the next 20 years. However, she emphasized that this transformation must focus not only on the quantity of universities but also on the quality of education provided to students.

Furthermore, Mrs. Museveni commended the government’s efforts to address issues of access to higher education by establishing more public universities and liberalizing the education sector, thereby broadening opportunities and access to higher education through private sector involvement.

As the celebrations unfolded, she urged NCHE to address the ongoing challenge of maintaining the quality of education, particularly in institutions offering science and technology programs, as the educational landscape continues to expand.