A team from Busitema University recently took part in the Strengthening Inclusive TVET Teaching for Refugees and Host Communities in Uganda workshop held from 28th–29th April 2026. The workshop, an activity being implemented under the RiTE Project, took place at Uganda Small Scale Industries Association, Lugogo Showgrounds in Kampala, and brought together TVET trainers, instructors, project partners, and refugee education stakeholders from across the country.

Over the two days, participants engaged in open discussions, shared experiences, and explored practical ways of making TVET more inclusive and responsive to the needs of both refugees and host communities. The sessions were interactive and grounded in real classroom and institutional challenges, which made the learning especially relevant.

On the first day, the focus was on inclusive pedagogy and better understanding learners. Edith Bagenda guided participants through sessions on Inclusive Pedagogy for Mixed Classrooms and Competency-Based Teaching Basics, highlighting simple but effective ways to adapt teaching to diverse learning environments. Sebanenya George led conversations on Understanding Refugee Learners in Uganda’s TVET system and Psychosocial Support and Learner Motivation, drawing attention to the importance of supporting learners beyond academics. Ssebuliba Jackson shared insights on Uganda’s local context, including key challenges faced by institutions, and presented case studies that showed how some schools are already responding in practical ways.

The second day shifted more towards current TVET practices and what institutions can do moving forward. Ms. Bagenda returned with sessions on Digital Tools for TVET Trainers and Entrepreneurship and Labour Market Skills for Learners, pointing out the growing need to integrate technology and employability skills into training. Mr. Sebanenya George focused on Communication Skills and Classroom Management as well as Retention, Guidance, and Learner Support Strategies, encouraging trainers to create learning environments where students feel supported and motivated to stay. Mr. Ssebuliba Jackson led discussions on Local Institutional Best Practices and guided participants in thinking through Institutional Inclusion Action Plans, pushing institutions to turn ideas into practical steps.

For the Busitema University team, the workshop was a valuable opportunity to learn, reflect, and exchange ideas with others working in similar spaces. It also reinforced the importance of building a TVET system that is inclusive, practical, and responsive to the realities of all learners.