KAMPALA, Uganda : The National Building Review Board (NBRB) has commended Makerere University College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology for strengthening the technical capacity of construction site workers through extensive professional skills training programs that align with modern technological advancements.
The remarks wwere made by Eng. Dr. Morris Oleng, a civil and structural engineer and researcher at NBRB, during the closing and awards ceremony of a two-day training workshop and exhibition for fundis, technicians, and artisans. The event was hosted by CEDAT and focused on improving practical skills among construction workers and showcasing building materials.
While delivering remarks on behalf of the NBRB Executive Secretary, Eng. Flavia Bwire, Dr. Oleng praised CEDAT for its leadership in enhancing the professional capacity of construction site workers across the country.
He noted that the government recognizes the critical role played by NBRB in offering free professional skills training to young people engaged in construction projects. He emphasized that such initiatives should be emulated and collectively supported by all stakeholders as a major milestone in the development of Uganda’s construction sector.
Dr. Oleng expressed concern over the rising number of building collapses at construction sites, attributing the incidents to inadequate training of personnel and the use of substandard construction materials. He warned that the government, through its regulatory frameworks, would intensify monitoring and supervision to ensure strict compliance with construction standards.
He also appreciated the contributions of sponsors who provided technical support to the training program, noting that such partnerships are vital in improving onsite professional standards among local workers. Sponsors included Uganda National Oil Company, Plascon, Steel & Tube Industries Ltd, Hima Cement, and Crest Tanks Ltd, among others.
Dr. Tamale Amin Kiggundu, Head of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at CEDAT, alongside Prof. Anthony Gidudu and Prof. Moses Musinguzi, revealed that the program has trained over 700 technicians and artisans since its inception in 2023, with each cohort comprising more than 100 participants.
He noted that CEDAT provides a unique platform within the university system for equipping less formally educated youth with practical construction skills, aiming to empower them with hands-on expertise for employment and entrepreneurship.
“We started this refresher training program in 2022 and later upgraded it into an annual initiative due to the growing number of youth seeking practical skills in the construction industry,” Kiggundu explained.
Prof. Maria Kizito, a senior lecturer at CEDAT, encouraged parents to support their children in enrolling for such training opportunities, noting that vocational skills empower young people to become job creators rather than job seekers.
She emphasized that parents should actively encourage their children to pursue vocational training, as it provides lifelong, practical skills essential for survival and success in today’s job market.
