UMI recently convened a stakeholder’s workshop to meticulously review and align the Postgraduate Diploma in Education Leadership and Management curriculum with the evolving demands of today’s educational landscape. Moderated by Dr. Alfred Kiiza, Head of Department of Government Studies, the workshop brought together key stakeholders from the Ministry of Education, UMI, and sister agencies, underscoring the collaborative effort to enhance education leadership in Uganda and the region.

Representing the Director General, the Director Programmes and Student’s Affairs, Dr. Kasozi. S. Mulindwa commissioned the workshop, emphasizing UMI’s steadfast mission to excel in developing science-led, practical, and sustainable administration, leadership, and management capacity. He reiterated that curriculum review is an integral part of UMI’s DNA, aimed at ensuring graduates are not only academically sound but also profoundly applicable in the job market, echoing the expectations of the National Council of Higher Education (NCHE).

Delivering a compelling keynote address, Dr. Pius Ochwo, Academic Registrar of Kisubi University, stressed the imperative for a competence-based curriculum, driven by rapid transformations in the education sector, stringent accreditation requirements, and the pressing need to align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Dr. Ochwo posed a pivotal question for the stakeholders: “What are the core leadership competencies our curriculum must develop to prepare effective education leaders in Uganda and the region?” He elaborated that leadership and management in education transcend mere administrative skills, encompassing strategic vision, ethical standards, proactive community engagement, and the ability to motivate and inspire others.

Dr. Ochwo further highlighted the East African Community’s initiatives to harmonize education standards and promote cross-border collaboration. Citing the Ministry of Education and Sports’ 2021 annual report, he underscored the critical role of leadership in transforming education systems to meet National Development Goals and fostering resilience, as starkly revealed during the COVID-19 pandemic. He urged stakeholders to contribute their expertise towards crafting a curriculum that imbues future leaders with adaptability and vision.

Assoc. Prof. Lazarus Nabaho proceeded to present the revised curriculum for the postgraduate diploma, inviting stakeholders to provide invaluable input, thereby shaping the next generation of education leaders poised to drive Uganda’s educational advancement.