President Museveni boosts Youth Vocational Training in Wakiso.

By Peter Ssuuna

President Museveni has received a commendation for his proactive role in boosting vocational education nationwide. His recent donation of 20 million shillings to finalize a vocational school, operating under the Assey Youth Initiative, underscores a significant commitment to empowering young people with the skills they need to break free from poverty.

The driving force behind this initiative is Ibrahim Musoga Nakabona, the NRM chairman for Masuliita who expressed a profound gratitude to the President for his crucial support, particularly highlighting how it benefits children without guardians.

At the inaugural graduation ceremony held in Masuliita Wakiso District for students supported by this initiative who have been studying at the YMCA institute, an inspiring call to action was made.

The Assistant Resident District Commissioner for Makindye Ssabagabo Division, Simon Peter Mawerere, challenged graduating students to actively engage in government development programs, empowering them to become job creators rather than job seekers.

Mawerere lauded the initiative's leadership for their dedication to youth skill development in the region.

"We urge the director to submit a proposal to our office so we can explore how the government can best support this program, which aligns perfectly with our national development goals." Mawerere stated.

He further encouraged the graduates to leverage existing government funding schemes, such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and the Youth Livelihood Program, emphasizing, "These initiatives are designed to help you launch your own businesses." He also stressed the importance of lifelong learning, reminding them that "education is unlimited."

Among the proud graduates who benefited in this program were Lynda Patience, who excelled in Computer technology, Flavia Nakawooya and Jolly Ruth Musiime in Computer Science, and Nusula Mutesi in Media and Communication.

Lynda Patience, who emerged as the top student among the five graduates, delivered an emotionally charged message of gratitude. She extended her heartfelt thanks to the Assey Youth Initiative for the life-changing opportunity and to their parents for their unwavering sacrifices and support towards their success.

Under this initiative, young people gain practical skills in fields like tailoring, shoemaking, bakery, hair dressing and other skills. These skills are vital, equipping them to navigate the economic landscape by enabling them to create their own employment opportunities, thus escaping the cycle of poverty.

Ibrahim Musoga Nakabona, the founder of the Assey Youth Initiative, candidly acknowledged the persistent challenge of limited job opportunities, despite their strenuous efforts in education.

He reiterated his gratitude for the crucial support received, stating, "I thank President Museveni for the funds to build our school, and the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the President, Haji Yunus Kakande, for his wisdom and support towards the development of this school." Nakabona also extended thanks to Senior Presidential Advisor Salim Saleh, whose generous provision of training materials, including sewing machines, baking machines, hairdressing equipment and others to ensure that students have the tools to continue learning and honing their crafts.

Celestine Lugerenyangye, Assey's operations manager, appealed for continued government backing to ensure the sustained growth and impact of the initiative.

Based in Masuliita Town Council, Busiro North, Uganda, the Assey Youth Initiative Uganda (AYI-Uganda) is a dynamic youth-led organization. It is deeply committed to community development and the empowerment of young people aged 10-30.

Through holistic programs that focus on human rights, peacebuilding, reproductive health, and economic empowerment, AYI-Uganda tackles critical community challenges, fostering leadership and sustainable development across Uganda.

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