SENIOR SIX WERE RELEASED: WHAT NEXT FOR THE STUDENT?

 It was a moment of so many youngsters on 13th March 2026 when results of Uganda Advanced Certificate Education (UACE) results were released. There is a reason to celebrate because education is not an easy journey. One of the most critical questions after any achievement is the question what next? As students celebrate their achievement it is important to take time and analyze their next steps.

It is said that it is in the moment of decisions that our lives are shaped. Out of excitement a destiny can be cut short because of irrational decisions. The senior six finalists are at a crossroad on which choice of careers and institutions they should join. Unfortunately after decades of providing career guidance to students from primary to university level I have found that a lot is missing in providing the right guidance to the youths who form the majority in the country( over 70% of Ugandans are below 30 years) . Many are left by their parents to make their own career choices under the notion that they are "mature enough". Having been at university for both undergraduate and post graduate I cannot understate the importance of career guidance. Without adequate guidance from experts , a student is bound to make life time choices with limited experience. Some students seek guidance about the choices of courses from their friends. Others choose courses because of cost. Others choose institutions of higher learning without making adequate research about their legality. 

There have been cases where students have applied for courses that are not on the National Council For Higher Education mandated courses(expired courses). With the commercialization and liberalization of education a student and parent must take careful attention before they choose which institution and courses the student should undertake. There needs to be guided discussions between the student and the parent. Some parents dictate choice of courses for their children without taking time to understand their passion and long term aspirations.

The other issue that needs urgent attention is the role of technology in changing the job market. With the introduction of Artificial Intelligence(AI) there has been a disruption in the job market. It is important for a student to choose courses that are relevant in the market place. More still universities have a key role in guiding the youths on how they can maximize their stay at university.

Congratulations to the senior six candidates once again.

For individual and corporate financial literacy training contact :

Coach Phillip Kiryowa

Personal Finance Coach(CPC)

Certified Master Trainer, Bank of Uganda

Founder, Advanced Empowerment Link

For Financial Freedom and Sustainable Enterprises

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