President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has directed administrators of Zonal Skilling Industrial Hubs to increase the number of programs offered to students, citing the growing demand for vocational training. The President made these remarks while commissioning the Bunyoro Zonal Skilling Industrial Hub , emphasizing the government’s commitment to empowering youth and transforming them into a productive workforce.
Empowering Youth Through Skilling
President Museveni urged the public to understand the government’s vision behind establishing zonal skilling hubs, which aim to equip young people with practical skills and create job opportunities. He highlighted the importance of vocational training in addressing unemployment and fostering economic growth.
“These skilling hubs are a catalyst for empowering our youth and turning them into a productive human resource. We must expand the programs to meet the increasing demand and ensure that more young people benefit from these initiatives,” the President said.
The Bunyoro Zonal Skilling Industrial Hub currently enrolls 240 students twice a year in various vocational programs. Students from across the 8 districts of the Bunyoro sub-region and Hoima City are trained in skills such as carpentry, tailoring, welding, and electronics, among others. Similar hubs are operational in other traditional zones across the country.
District SACCOs for Graduates
To support graduates in starting their own businesses, the government plans to roll out district Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) . These SACCOs will provide financing for business ideas, enabling graduates to apply their skills and contribute to the local economy.
Addressing Funding Gaps in Public Schools
President Museveni also addressed challenges in public schools, urging administrators to report funding gaps to the government instead of imposing additional charges on students. He emphasized the need for strategic interventions to ensure quality education for all.
“Public schools should inform the government of their funding needs so that we can address them systematically. Imposing fees on students is not the solution,” he said.
Alignment with National Education Standards
First Lady Janet Kataha Museveni, who also serves as the Minister of Education and Sports, directed zonal skilling hub administrators to align their courses with the national education accreditation system. This move aims to ensure that the skills taught at the hubs meet industry standards and are recognized nationally.
“It is crucial that the programs offered at these hubs are aligned with the national education framework. This will enhance the credibility and employability of the graduates,” she said.
Value Addition for Economic Growth
President Museveni advised the people of Bunyoro to embrace value addition initiatives as a pathway to rapid and sustainable development. He challenged them to explore opportunities in sectors such as wood processing, hides and skins, and other natural resources to create jobs and boost the local economy.
“Value addition is key to unlocking the economic potential of our resources. By processing wood, hides, and other materials, we can create more jobs and increase the value of our products,” the President said.
Conclusion
The commissioning of the Bunyoro Zonal Skilling Industrial Hub marks a significant step in the government’s efforts to empower youth and promote economic development through vocational training. With plans to expand programs, establish district SACCOs, and promote value addition, the initiative is expected to transform the lives of many young people in the Bunyoro sub-region and beyond.
President Museveni’s call for increased investment in skilling and value addition underscores the government’s commitment to creating a skilled and productive workforce, driving Uganda’s vision for sustainable development.
