In a pleasing display of transformation, Luzira Prison has become the epicentre of a remarkable initiative aimed at equipping young people with essential life skills. The Presidential Initiative for Skilling the Girl/Boy Child, hosted within the prison’s confines, has successfully trained over 600 students in various vocational courses, offering them a chance at a brighter future. The showcasing event that started at Luzira Centre saw students exhibit a variety of high-class fashion products and other items they have learned to make over the past six months.
Since its inception, the Presidential Initiative for Skilling the Girl/Boy Child has registered and enrolled over 40,592 students in various skills. Of these, 35,415 have graduated, and over 4,637 students are currently undergoing training at various skilling centres.
These students are due to sit their Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT) Level 1 exams at the end of June 2024. The programme offers comprehensive training in various skills, such as weaving, tailoring, knitting, shoemaking, and bakery techniques. What’s truly remarkable is the inclusion of boys in traditionally female-dominated courses, which promotes gender equality and broadens opportunities for all participants.
Each student is registered with the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) before leaving the programme, ensuring they possess a National ID, a crucial document for future opportunities. This initiative not only provides vocational skills but also ensures that graduates are well-equipped for the formal job market.
President Museveni’s commitment to this initiative is evident in his daily provision of meals for 5,600 students. The diverse menu is prepared by female cooks stationed at the centres, working at intervals of two weeks per catering group. This sustenance has not only nourished the students’ bodies but also their spirits, transforming them into confident and skilled individuals.
Athieno Joyce, the administrator of Luzira Skilling Centre, expressed her gratitude for the initiative. “The programme aims to help young people transition from school to work, addressing the issue of unemployment. Since the 9th intake in January 2018, we have enrolled youth from Luzira, Nakawa, and other surrounding areas.
The centre registered 670 students, and now 566 are ready to take their final exams. We have 20 instructors, five support staff, and other personnel. Meals are served free, and medical first aid is always available. We not only focus on skills but also promote the talents of our students, enabling them to exhibit their talents and stay physically fit. I thank President YK Museveni for his fatherly heart and support for this project.”
The impact of the initiative is best illustrated through the success stories of its alumni. Julius, one of the graduates, shared his experience: “I have made good money since I left the centre after learning shoemaking. I am now better equipped to support myself and my family.”
Another inspiring story comes from a former student who joined the programme later in life. “I came here when I was badly off. My husband had set up a salon for me, but I wasn’t making enough money. I am 45 years old, and I sent all my kids for skilling, and they learned various skills. I thought about myself and decided to join and learn, just like my two kids. I am so happy that I learned a lot. Now I am a serious tailor, working on several designs. I do makeup, tailor clothes for brides, and do all kinds of hair.”
Dr. Faith Mirembe Katana, the Director of the Presidential Initiative on Skilling the Girl/Boy Child (PISGBC) Project, emphasised the potential of Uganda’s youth. “You must know how you were created. Why doesn’t Uganda export more when we have all we need here to produce products? These students come without any prior knowledge, but they leave well-skilled,” Dr. Katana remarked.
Mr. KIZITO Nsubuga, the coordinator of the Kampala Office of the National Chairman Kyambogo and the chief guest at the event, expressed his gratitude to the president for initiating this skilling program. “I thank the president for initiating this skilling programme because it is helping to skill all those who had lost hope. All parents should send their children to come and study because this project is for everyone. President Museveni works for everyone, no matter their political background.”
Mr. KIZITO Nsubuga shared three pieces of advice with the students: “The teachers have done their job, and no one is responsible for your destiny but yourself. Don’t fear starting; just do what you have learned immediately. Wealth is not acquired in one day. Go to your communities and start small. Do not give up. Use the skills you have learned to become wealthy. When you have the will, you will find the way.”
Also present were a number of dignitaries, including the Senior Presidential Adviser for the Elderly, Princess Pauline Nassolo, and the parents of the students.
The Presidential Initiative for Skilling the Girl/Boy Child is more than just a training programme; it is a beacon of hope for many young Ugandans. By providing them with essential skills, this initiative is paving the way for a brighter future, reducing unemployment, and promoting self-reliance.
The success stories from the Luzira Centre are a testament to the transformative power of this initiative. As the students at Luzira Centre showcased their skills, it was evident that the Presidential Initiative for Skilling the Girl/Boy Child is making a significant impact.
With over 35,000 graduates and thousands more currently undergoing training, the programme is equipping young Ugandans with the skills they need to succeed. The initiative’s focus on inclusivity, comprehensive training, and holistic development ensures that its graduates are well-prepared for the future. The success of this initiative is a testament to the vision and commitment of President YK Museveni and the dedicated team behind the programme.
