Barlonyo Agro Technical Institute Students Confident of UVTAB Exams, Eye Top Grades.
By Okidi Patrick
LIRA, UGANDA: Students at Barlonyo Agro Technical Institute in Lira District have expressed confidence ahead of the Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board – UVTAB examinations, saying months of training have prepared them to excel without retakes.
The July/August 2026 UVTAB examinations commenced on Monday, August 10, 2026 and will run for two weeks until August 21, 2026. The national assessment brings together students pursuing various National Certificate programmes in technical and vocational institutions across Uganda.
“We are ready”
At Barlonyo, students said classroom lessons combined with hands-on practical training have equipped them with the skills needed for both theory and practical papers.
Jovan Okwir, a National Certificate student pursuing Plumbing and also Guild President of the institute, commended management and instructors for their support.
“We have been prepared well for these examinations. The management and our instructors have supported us throughout our training, and we are confident that we will perform well,” Okwir said.
He added that discipline among students has created a conducive learning environment, while the institute has provided the necessary examination and practical materials.
Okwir noted that technical education equips young people with practical skills to become self-reliant, secure jobs, or start their own businesses after school.
Principal backs students
Principal Mr. Ben Charles Kamba said the examinations had started smoothly with students and staff adhering to set procedures.
“This is an important stage in the training of our students because they are being assessed on the knowledge and practical skills they have acquired during their training,” Kamba said.
He expressed confidence in the candidates, noting that the institute has built a strong culture of academic and practical performance.
The July/August series caters for first-year students, continuing students, and finalists.
Kamba appealed to parents, guardians and community leaders in Lango and beyond to embrace technical and vocational education.
“Instead of viewing technical education as an option for those who fail in academics, members of the community should take advantage of the programmes at Barlonyo. These are the skills that create jobs and grow household incomes,” he said.
Courses and location:
Barlonyo Agro Technical Institute offers National Certificate programmes in Building, Agriculture, Woodwork, Plumbing, Automotive Mechanics, and Fashion and Design.
The institute is located at Barlonyo B, 7 kilometres off Ogur Trading Centre in Lira District.
A memorial turned skills centre
The institution carries deep historical significance for Lango. It was established in memory of victims of the 2004 Barlonyo massacre during the LRA insurgency, following a request by residents to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
What started as a memorial has grown into a key centre for skills development, helping to transform lives and drive local economic growth.
About the Author
