The government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has made its position on the earlier draft resolutions by the UNESCO Executive Board for consideration by the 43rd UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
The conference started on October 30 and will conclude on November 13, 2025. However, draft resolutions were scheduled for votes between November 3 and 4, 2025.
Ambassador Elly Kafeero Kamahungye, on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Permanent Secretary, in a letter dated November 3, 2025, to Ambassador Doreen Ruth Amule, Head of Mission, Uganda Embassy in Paris, France, issued guidance.
On draft resolution dated October 23, 2025, on UNESCO’s actions and emergency assistance programme for Ukraine, Ambassador Amule was guided to “abstain.”
Two, on the resolution adopted by the 22nd UNESCO Executive Board that was expected to be introduced for action during the 43rd Session of the UNESCO Executive Board – especially on the Board’s decision 4.1.1 – ‘Follow-up on the situation in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea (Ukraine)’ – Uganda’s head of mission in Paris was also guided to “abstain.”
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On the Executive Board Decision 4.1.0 of October 27, 2025, – ‘Supporting the continuity of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA’s) educational activities in the occupied Palestinian territory, Ambassador Amule was guided to “vote in favor.”
Lastly, on the Board Decision 5.1.K dated May 16, 2025, – ‘Supporting the continuity of UNRWA’s educational activities in the occupied Palestinian territory, Ambassador Amule was also guided to “vote in favor.”
The Executive Board of UNESCO adopted a resolution on actions and emergency programme in Ukraine at its 222nd Session in October 2025 after a recommendation by its Finance and Administrative Commission and the Programme and External Relations Commission at their joint meeting.
At that meeting, 26 nations voted in favor, and two against.
Albania, Argentina, Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Japan; Liberia, the United Kingdom, Iceland, Grenada, Republic of Korea, Saint Lucia; Philippines, Slovakia, among others voted in favour.
China and Cuba voted against.
Uganda’s strong message
Ambassador Doreen Ruth Amule, who’s also the Permanent Delegate and Uganda Leader of Delegation, spoke at a high-level ministerial segment meeting of the UNESCO 43rd general conference.
The conference, held in Uzbekistan on October 31, 2025, was themed “Transforming Tomorrow, Today”: Skills Needed for a Sustainable Future.”
The head of delegation said it was an honor for her to address this high-level ministerial segment meeting of the UNESCO 43rd General Conference. “We convene today amidst unprecedented global challenges, and opportunities where the need to transform education systems is more urgent than ever,” she said.
The skills needed for a sustainable future, she said, “resonate deeply with our shared commitment to equipping future generations with the skills necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving world. The pillars of education for the 21st Century will be the cornerstone of sustainable development.”
“Traditional educational models must evolve to meet the complexities of our rapidly changing society. It is imperative that we redefine skill sets to include not only foundational literacy and numeracy but also critical competencies that span digital literacy, emotional intelligence, environmental stewardship, promoting entrepreneurship skills through curriculum practices, cultivating creativity, risk management, business planning, and stimulating local economies for job creation.”
Uganda, she informed the conference, has implemented several key initiatives and education reforms. “We are in the process of reforming our curricula at all levels of education to integrate competencies that promote problem-solving, creativity, applying knowledge acquired and critical thinking.”
“These reforms focus on aligning our educational outcomes with the demands of the labour market and fostering a generation of innovative thinkers poised to tackle global challenges.
“Emphasis is on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET); to bridge the gap between education and employment, we are investing in relevant programs that equip learners with practical skills and competencies that are directly relevant to industrial needs. This effort aims to create a skilled workforce capable of contributing to Uganda’s economic growth and resilience.”
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the digital divide that exists within our communities, she noted, adding, “Uganda is actively working to enhance digital literacy by providing access to technology and digital learning platforms.
“Professional development for educators is essential to ensure they possess the skills necessary to teach in a rapidly changing environment. Let us establish frameworks that encourage continuous learning and upskilling throughout one’s life, enabling individuals to adapt to changing job markets.”
“As representatives of our nations, we bear the responsibility of nurturing the dream of a sustainable tomorrow for our children. Together, let us harness the collective wisdom to shape educational policies and practices that are responsive, equitable, and resilient. Thank you for your attention.”
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