Mubende, Uganda – President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has commissioned the Kibuye-Bugge Vocational Industrial Hub in Kitenga Sub-County, Mubende District, as part of his administration’s push to equip Ugandan youth with hands-on skills for self-reliance.
The facility, established in 2020 under the Presidential Zonal Industrial Hub initiative, serves trainees from five districts: Mityana, Kassanda, Kiboga, Kyankwanzi, and Mubende. It offers six-month courses in hairdressing, electrical installation, tailoring, welding, and other vocational disciplines, with graduates receiving certification upon completion.
During the launch, President Museveni toured workshops and interacted with students, observing their practical demonstrations. He urged Ugandans to embrace the skilling program, emphasizing its role in combating unemployment.
Addressing Parental Resistance
The President expressed concern over parents who discourage their children from vocational training, preferring traditional academic paths. "Some parents still think education is only about books. We must change this mindset," Museveni stated, reaffirming plans to expand course offerings at the hub.
Startup Capital for Graduates
In a significant boost, the President announced that each graduate will receive UGX 10 million in seed capital through newly established SACCOs across beneficiary districts. "This money will help them start income-generating activities immediately after training," he explained.
Leadership Applauds Initiative
Local leaders praised the hub as a transformative project for the region. "This will empower thousands of youth who previously had limited opportunities," remarked one district official. The President’s intervention comes as Uganda intensifies the implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM), aiming to uplift 39% of the population from a subsistence economy.
The Kibuye-Bugge hub represents one of 21 such facilities established nationwide under Museveni’s industrialization agenda, with over 15,000 youths already trained since the program’s inception.
As Uganda works toward its Vision 2040 goals, such skilling initiatives are expected to play a pivotal role in creating an employable workforce and stimulating local economic growth.
