KAMPALA.
President Museveni has said that Uganda’s true path to liberation lies not just in politics ,but also in technology, skills and practical education.
“Skilling hubs have two purposes. One is to create wealth. Wealth comes from people,” he said.
The President made the remarks Tuesday while launching the Presidential Zonal Industrial Hub in Ntoroko District.
In a historical reflection, President Museveni said Africa’s past defeat at the hands of colonialists was not due to lack of leadership or culture, but because of lack of technology and practical skills.
“During colonial times, we had kings, poets, witch doctors and priests but no technology. That’s how the Europeans succeeded,” he said.
President Museveni said the skilling hubs were so instrumental, especially to the youth from poor families who didn’t get a chance to attain Education elsewhere. He said the hubs are fully free of charge and provide accommodation, meals, medical care, and hands-on training.
“These children were like food without salt. Now, I have added salt and it is tasteful,” he said.
To support the beneficiaries, President Museveni donated Shs 10 million to each graduate, urging them to become job creators, not job seekers.
The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa commended President Museveni for the establishment of Presidential Zonal Industrial Hubs, describing them as a game-changer in the fight against youth unemployment and rural poverty.
Mr. William Kasozi, the Zonal Chairperson for the Presidential Industrial Skilling revealed that the current intake consists of 897 learners, with 378 girls and 519 boys, all drawn from Bundibugyo District , Ntoroko District, and Fort Portal City.
He commended the diversity and inclusiveness of the programme, which also supports learners with free accommodation, training, and startup capital.
In a move aimed at boosting sustainability, Mr. Kasozi announced the creation of the Industrial Skilling Hub SACCO, a savings and credit initiative established by the district hub committee to support graduates and promote entrepreneurship.
“We have been following your guidance and speeches closely, and I’m pleased to report that your vision is taking root on the ground,” Kasozi said.
He further highlighted key directives issued by the President, including; increasing the number of instructors from 240 to 400 to meet growing demand, expanding accommodation to match the rise in student enrolment, introducing new courses such as weaving, plumbing, automobile mechanics, and electrical installation to widen the skill set of trainees.
Mr Kasozi also noted that the rural electrification rate in Ntoroko currently stands at just 8 percent , making the introduction of electrical training highly beneficial for the region.
“These additional courses will not only enhance job creation but also empower our youth to directly contribute to local development, especially in underserved areas,” he added.
The event was also attended by the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, State House Comptroller, Ms. Jane Barekye, Members of Parliament, among others.