Embracing Competence-Based Education: A Forward-Looking Response to Traditional Critiques

A recent public notice has criticised short, non-traditional professional courses—especially in fields like architecture and engineering —as inadequate, calling instead for traditional, multi-year programs. While concerns about safety and quality are valid, such criticism overlooks the growing global embrace of competence-based education (CBE), which prioritises demonstrable skills over rigid academic timelines.

Unlike traditional models that emphasize time spent in class, CBE focuses on practical, measurable skills and real-world application. It supports flexible, personalized learning pathways that are especially relevant in fast-evolving fields where technology, sustainability, and innovation are essential. Far from lowering standards, CBE enhances them by aligning training with industry demands.

International support is strong:

• UNESCO’s CFIT project promotes hands-on, field-based learning in Africa, including a recent workshop at Makerere University advocating for 80% practical engagement.
• OECD encourages 21st-century skills like collaboration and innovation through flexible, skill-based curricula.
• C-BEN, Aurora Institute, and KnowledgeWorks are championing responsive CBE models that prepare learners for employment and entrepreneurship.
• Canadian institutions and international schools are also integrating competency frameworks to modernize education systems.

In professions like architecture and engineering, CBE enables mastery of essential skills—like Building Information Modelling (BIM) or sustainable design—without the need for years of unrelated coursework. These programs can still uphold safety, ethics, and quality through targeted assessments and practical evaluations.

Rejecting skill-based learning as inferior reflects resistance to educational innovation, not a legitimate concern for competence. The rejection is mostly rooted in fear of competition. For countries like Uganda, expanding access to practical, industry-aligned training is key to unlocking youth employment and industrial growth.

Conclusion:

The world is shifting toward education that values what learners can do—not just how long they study. Embracing competence-based models ensures that education stays relevant, inclusive, and impactful in a changing world.