Leaders in Bundibugyo district, Rwenzori Sub-region, commend President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his impactful skilling program for the youth, citing it as a successful initiative combating unemployment in Uganda.
Hon. Richard Gafabusa, Member of Parliament for Bwamba County in Bundibugyo district, highlighted the effectiveness of the Presidential skilling program managed by Ms. Jane Barekye, the State House Comptroller. He emphasized its role in providing employment opportunities to thousands of youths nationwide who lacked formal education.
Speaking during the first-ever graduation ceremony of 479 youths who completed vocational training at the Rwenzori Sub-region Industrial hub in Ntoroko district, Hon. Gafabusa underscored the importance of acquiring employable skills over pursuing conventional degrees.
He urged parents to encourage their children to pursue trades that offer self-employment opportunities, emphasizing the need for financial support, particularly through the Parish Development Model (PDM), to help skilled graduates establish their businesses.
Hon. Gafabusa also urged for the inclusion of additional marketable trades like plumbing and motor vehicle mechanics, citing their high demand in the region.
Hon. Anne Mary Tumwine, the woman Member of Parliament for Ntoroko District, expressed gratitude to President Museveni and the NRM government for establishing the skilling hub, which she noted is positively impacting the lives of youth in the region.
Mr. William Kasoro, Chairperson of the Zonal Hub Management Committee and LC5 Chairperson for Ntoroko, praised President Museveni’s visionary leadership and highlighted the significant improvement in local skills availability, such as carpentry.
Ms. Jane Barekye, the State House Comptroller, outlined the objectives of the Industrial hubs project initiated by President Museveni, emphasizing job creation, fostering entrepreneurship, reducing urban crime rates, and improving household incomes.
A total of 19 regional Industrial hubs have been constructed nationwide as part of the Presidential Initiative to empower youth with skills for economic participation.
The graduates were awarded Uganda Vocational Qualifications Level One Certificates by the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT), which are equivalent to Uganda Certificate of Education level and internationally recognized.
The ceremony was attended by Regional Resident District Commissioners, LC5 Chairpersons, religious leaders, security officers, and parents.