The Uganda Business and Technical Examinations Board (UBTEB) officially opened the 8th Training Program for assessors and item writers, which started on 24th February 2025 and ended today, 5th March 2025.  The Executive Secretary, Onesmus Oyesigye (CPA),  commended the assessors for playing a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) assessments in Uganda. The Official ceremony took place on 26th February 2025 at the Uganda Industrial Research Institute, Namanve.

The event commenced with opening remarks from Oyesigye Onesmus (CPA), who welcomed the 90 selected item writers from the Business and Humanities disciplines, including a specialized group of 20 focused on Mathematics. Oyesigye emphasized the crucial role that item writers play in the examination process and the overall educational landscape.

With a growing database of 616 trained assessors, the Assessors’ Training Program aimed to equip participants with the necessary skills to create fair, valid, and quality assessment items in alignment with the Uganda Business and Technical Examinations Board (UBTEB) standards. 

"Well-constructed assessment items are foundational for effective evaluation of learners' competencies," Oyesigye stated. "These tools not only measure learning outcomes but also provide invaluable feedback to instructors, policymakers, and students", he added.

Throughout this ongoing training, participants engaged in collaborative exercises and discussions to enhance their item-writing skills. Oyesigye encouraged all participants to approach the training with an open mind, highlighting the long-term impact their efforts will have on learners’ educational journeys. 

Prof Charles Kwesiga, the Executive Director of UIRI, additionally urged Ugandans to uphold the value of Artisans and Technicians in the country's industrial growth and development. He, therefore, called upon the assessors to embrace practical and hands-on skills to drive innovation and productivity of skilled professionals from TVET training institutions.

Additionally, Oyesigye shared exciting news about the establishment of the new Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB), following the President’s recent assent to the TVET Act 2025. He announced that UBTEB will shift to its new location on Kyambogo Hill in mid-March 2025, marking a significant step in the evolution of Uganda’s TVET framework.

Onesmus Oyesigye (CPA) concluded by officially declaring the 8th Assessors’ Training Program open, reiterating the importance of the Board’s commitment to quality assessments that will shape the future of learners enrolled in various TVET training institutions in Uganda.