The Prime Minister of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, emphasized the pivotal role of community support and engagement from stakeholders such as parents, educators, and leaders at all levels in nurturing a culture of vocational skills among the youth.
She stressed the importance of viewing vocational training as a viable path towards innovation and entrepreneurship, fostering not only job readiness but also job creation.
Speaking at the second graduation ceremony of the Bunyoro Zonal Presidential Industrial Hub, located in Nyakarongo village, Kimengo sub-county, Masindi district, Rt. Hon. Nabbanja highlighted the government’s commitment to skilling initiatives as integral to national development. She commended the efforts to integrate practical and technical skills into the education curriculum, aligning educational outcomes with market demands and economic needs.
Rt. Hon. Nabbanja also urged the graduates to utilize government support programs like innovation hubs and startup grants instead of resorting to high-interest loans. She emphasized the importance of self-reliance and cautioned against falling victim to predatory lending practices.
Each graduate received a Uganda Vocational Qualifications Level One Certificate from the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT), equivalent to a Uganda Certificate of Education level, and internationally recognized in the workforce.
Ms. Jane Barekye, State House Comptroller, highlighted the objectives of the multi-billion project, including poverty alleviation, unemployment reduction, and import substitution. She revealed President Museveni’s plans to establish common user facilities in commercial districts for skilled graduates to operate and sell their products, as well as the launch of model training farms for agricultural education.
Mr. Cosmas Byaruhanga, LCV Chairperson for Masindi District and Zonal Hub Chairperson, praised the initiative for its impact on youth employment, calling for continued government support and special grants for the Bunyoro region.
Testimonials from graduates like Mr. Tindyebwa Abdu Majid Adam underscored the transformative impact of the program, citing personal success stories in employment and entrepreneurship.
The ceremony, attended by various local authorities, marked another milestone in Uganda’s efforts to empower its youth through vocational training, with similar hubs established across the country.