President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today reiterated his dedication to empowering Ugandan youth through vocational skills development, highlighting its crucial role in driving the country’s economic transformation.

Speaking during the commissioning of the Bunyoro Zonal Presidential Skilling Hub in Kiryana Myebanyakalongo Village, Kimengo Sub County, Masindi District, the President described the initiative as instrumental in awakening Africa from economic stagnation.

He urged citizens to understand the purpose behind establishing these zonal hubs, emphasizing their potential to transform youth into a highly productive human resource. Additionally, the President directed hub administrators to expand the range of courses offered, as demand for vocational training continues to grow.

President Museveni also pointed to Uganda’s shift from exporting raw hides to producing finished leather goods domestically, citing the Kawumu Tannery Factory as a testament to the progress. “We used to export raw hides, which were processed abroad. Today, with Kawumu, we are producing our own leather products, and the Bunyoro Hub is utilizing this leather to make shoes. This is how we as Ugandans are waking up,” he remarked.

Addressing education, the President criticized the misuse of Universal Primary and Secondary Education (UPE and USE) policies by some school administrators and parents, urging a renewed focus on providing free education to ensure vulnerable children are not left behind.

To further support youth entrepreneurship, President Museveni announced additional government funding for District SACCOs to enable young people to access startup capital.

Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja underscored the significance of the skilling hubs, calling them a top priority in achieving Uganda’s National Development Goals. She emphasized that the skills acquired through the program empower youth to create their own jobs and employ others, bolstering the economy.

First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, commended the President’s initiative, noting its positive impact on the lives of young Ugandans. She highlighted how vocational training not only enables self-employment but also contributes to family welfare and national growth.

“As we commission this Youth Skilling Hub, we must thank God for making this initiative possible, because unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain,” she said.

Maama Janet further stressed the importance of human capital development in Uganda’s journey toward prosperity, affirming that skilling remains a priority. She noted the potential of skills development to stimulate economic growth by catering to both formal and non-formal learners.

“For those unable to continue with formal education, this initiative offers an opportunity to realize their potential. Alongside formal education programs under TVET institutions, the Presidential Initiative is specifically tailored to support vulnerable youth who might not afford formal schooling,” she explained.

She also called upon Ugandans to seize the opportunity to gain valuable skills and knowledge to improve their livelihoods. Referencing the recent enactment of the TVET Act 2025, Maama Janet emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to regulating and aligning such programs with national objectives.

She urged program managers to comply with the provisions of the TVET Act, particularly highlighting the merger of DIT and UBTEB into the Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board as the new standard assessment body.

Reaffirming the government’s support, she added, “We are ready to stand with you as you serve our people through this skilling hub.”

The Zonal Hub Chairperson, Mr. Byaruhunga Cosmas, praised the initiative, noting that the hub has already graduated 893 students in trades like brick-making, bakery, welding, tailoring, and hairdressing. However, he highlighted transportation challenges faced by many students.

Several beneficiaries also shared their success stories. Tibareka Granimer, a building and construction graduate, revealed that his certificate enabled him to secure various contracts. Kobusinge Amanya, who studied tailoring, shared how she started her own business with Shs350,000 and now earns Shs50,000 daily, supporting her family.