National Assembly · Morning Sitting

Members debated the Universities (Amendment) Bill, arguing that universities should focus on degree programmes and research while technical and vocational training be handled by TVET institutions and middle‑level colleges. They highlighted concerns over the proliferation of diploma and certificate courses at universities, the need for quality standards, and suggested partnerships with foreign institutions and local manufacturing to enhance skills development. Members debated a Bill on appointing the Inspector‑General of Police, urging that only officers who have risen through the ranks should be eligible and warning against external appointments. They highlighted the need to raise experience thresholds, protect career civil servants, and improve police welfare, while expressing support for the Bill’s objectives. The discussion was constructive but underscored frustrations with current appointment practices. Members debated a Bill that would prohibit universities from offering ordinary diplomas and certificates, raising concerns about regulatory gaps, student funding, and potential waste of existing university infrastructure. While some praised the move as a step toward clearer higher‑education governance, others called for a unified authority and better financing mechanisms for TVET and health‑training students. Proposals were made to allow universities to share facilities and to rename or expand HELB to cover middle‑level learners.