On July 17, the Uganda Technical College Lira was filled with a palpable sense of hope and achievement as FAWE Uganda hosted a two-day transition workshop for its 2025/2026 cohort of HEAC graduates. A total of 482 young people, who had previously been unable to access university education due to narrowly missing the required entry grades, celebrated their successful completion of the bridging programme and their progression to degree-level studies.
The HEAC (Higher Education Access Certificate) programme serves as a vital lifeline for students who do not meet the direct entry requirements for Ugandan universities. As FAWE Uganda Executive Director Susan Opok Tumusiime explained, “We see bright young people who are unable to access higher education because of missing the entry grades narrowly. HEAC exists to close that gap.” This year, the graduates are set to pursue a variety of degree programmes, with a significant number entering Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields—a positive step toward addressing gender disparities in these areas.
The transition workshop was designed to prepare these students for the academic and social realities of university life. It provided practical information and support to ensure they are well-equipped to succeed in their new environments. The graduation ceremony was attended by proud families, FAWE Uganda staff, and key education officials, all there to recognize the dedication of the students.
Tonny Acwera, the Lira District Inspector of Schools, who served as the Chief Guest, commended FAWE Uganda’s commitment to transforming lives. “The HEAC programme is transforming lives by giving deserving students another chance to fulfil their academic ambitions and contribute to their communities,” he stated, emphasizing the ripple effect these graduates will have on their families and local economies.
The success of this cohort highlights the growing impact of the HEAC programme, which is funded by the Mastercard Foundation. By providing an accredited pathway into higher education, FAWE Uganda is not only changing individual futures but also contributing to the development of a skilled workforce in Uganda. The 482 graduates are now poised to become leaders in their communities, breaking cycles of poverty and driving social progress.