Minister for Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, Hon. Judith Nabakooba Nalule, expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for bringing opportunities like the skilling hubs closer to those who need them most.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for our children and the country at large. I have witnessed machines and products that were previously only accessible in Kampala. I commend H.E the President for establishing this in Greater Mubende.” she said
Previously, we only heard about this skilling program in Kampala, but the President, in his wisdom, decided to bring these opportunities closer by establishing zonal regional hubs to accommodate more children in our communities. His vision is to create a skilled nation where everyone participates in the money economy,” Nabakooba stated.
Minister Nabakooba made these remarks on Tuesday, 23rd April 2024, while presiding over the graduation ceremony of 448 youths who completed their vocational training at the Greater Mubende Presidential Zonal skilling hub, located in Kibuye-vuga village, Kitenga sub-county, Mubende district.
Students from the 2nd and 3rd cohorts, drawn from the administrative units of Greater Mubende and Wamala region, comprising Mityana, Mubende, Kassanda, Kiboga, & Kyankwanzi districts, were awarded certificates in seven (7) employable vocational disciplines, namely: Tailoring and Design (78), Hairdressing and Makeup (95), Building and Construction Practice (55), Carpentry & Joinery (46), Welding and Metal Fabrications (91), Bakery & Confectionery (55), and Leather Processing (Shoe Making) (28).
Nabakooba urged the trainees to consider themselves fortunate among the thousands of youths who would have loved to acquire similar training. She encouraged them to share their skills with other young people.
“There are many who would have liked to be here but didn’t get this chance. Be thankful because you are blessed. Stay humble as you seek employment. For those who can teach others, please do so, to increase the number of skilled individuals,” Minister Nabakooba emphasized.
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Vice Chairperson – Central region, Hon. Godfrey Kiwanda Suubi, called upon parents to support their children in furthering their skills.
“Don’t rely solely on the Government to do everything for you. President Museveni has educated and equipped our children with skills for free. If your daughter has acquired tailoring skills, consider selling a cow to buy her a sewing machine to start her own business. Become the beacon of hope in your villages,” Hon. Kiwanda advised.
A total of 19 regional Industrial hubs have been constructed by the government across the country under the Presidential Initiative aimed at skilling the youth for the money economy.
Students were awarded Uganda Vocational Qualifications Level One Certificate by the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT), which is equivalent to the Uganda Certificate of Education level.
Students shared testimonies of hope and thanked President Museveni for providing them with free skills training.
Namakula Bridget, who acquired skills in welding, informed guests that she is already employed in a workshop and is impressing her employers with her quality work.
“I extend my gratitude to President Museveni and our instructors. I believe I will become a successful woman in the next five years,” she remarked.
Kisekka Ronald from Kakindu in Mityana district, who acquired skills in carpentry and joinery, shared that he secured his first job by showcasing his talent during an interview to make a cupboard.
“I thank President Museveni for providing us with these valuable skills. To my fellow students, let’s not squander our talents,” Kisekka urged.
Maruti Daniel from Kasanda, who acquired skills in baking and confectionery, revealed that his first assignment was to create a graduation cake.
“I am now employed by Denovo Bread bakery in Nateete, Kampala, earning 200,000 shillings per week. I am grateful to President Museveni for giving us the skills we are benefiting from today,” Maruti expressed.
Musinguzi Jordan from Kalonga Village, Mubende, who acquired skills in carpentry and joinery, shared that he had lost hope after completing Senior Four due to lack of funds for further formal education.
Comments are closed.