Uganda Martyrs Polytechnic College Soroti (UMPS)

Uganda Martyrs Polytechnic College Soroti (UMPS).

Uganda Martyrs Polytechnic College Soroti (UMPS) is a vocational institution located in Soroti Town, Uganda. Established in 1993 by Mr. Hans Raffeiner, with the backing of Bishop Erasmus Wandera, the school began operations in 1996. It was established with the aim of equipping children left orphaned due to insurgencies in Teso with vocational skills that would enable them to access gainful employment and earn a living.The school opened with only three courses: Carpentry and Joinery, Motor Vehicle Mechanics, and Bricklaying and Concrete Practice.The institution has come a long way since then, having registered with the Ministry of Education Science Technology and Sports (as a Post Primary Institution), the Uganda National Examinations Board, and the Directorate of Industrial Training.UMPS has since introduced short courses in Tailoring, Plumbing, Driving, Catering, Electrical Installation, Agriculture, Motor Cycle Repairs, Hairdressing, Computer Applications, and Welding, among others. The courses have been designed to cater to those who have not attained any educational background, or those not interested in the formal educational process due to various challenges.UMPS also offers a loan scheme to support those who complete their training with start-up capital, and after a few years of operation, it established two major production units, the Carpentry Production Unit (CPU) and St. Josephs’ Garage, headed by Mr. Konrad Steighler and Mr. Hans Raffeiner, respectively.These units offer thorough practical training and provide first employment experience for UMPS students, generate income, manage bills, including staff salaries, and inject money into UMPS, thus boosting the institution’s operation.The institution’s administrators have been dedicated to its growth and development, with UMPS Directors, including Rev. Fr. Bernard Martin Aeko (2005-2019) and MSGR. Robert Ecogu (2019-Todate), working to ensure that the institution’s mission is fulfilled. UMPS has also had head teachers, including Mr. Elepu Augustine (1998-2001), who have contributed to its success.UMPS has made a significant contribution to Uganda’s education system by offering vocational training to students who would have otherwise been left without opportunities. Its commitment to equipping students with practical skills has resulted in the production of competent graduates who have gone on to start successful businesses. UMPS is a valuable institution that plays a critical role in Uganda’s socio-economic development.