In a remarkable event held at St. Fatina Catholic Church in Nakulabye, the Presidential Initiative for Skilling the Girl/Boy child Center celebrated the achievements of 500 students who have undergone rigorous vocational training.
The Nakulabye Skilling Center, located at the heart of the community, has become a beacon of hope and empowerment for young individuals seeking to acquire practical skills.
The center offers a diverse range of training programs, including hairdressing, shoemaking, knitting, tailoring, and makeup artistry. These programs not only equip students with valuable skills but also provide them with essential resources. According to the center’s administrator, students always have access to materials and food, ensuring a conducive learning environment.
Of the 500 students enrolled at the center, 50 are boys, while the majority are girls. Over a span of six months, these students have received intensive mentoring and training, preparing them to excel in their final DIT (Directorate of Industrial Training) exams.
Distinguished guests at the event included Dr Faith Katana, Inspector General of Government (IGG) Betty Kamya, State Minister for Lands Persis Namuganza, Mr Byakatonda, the Head of DIT, and Revolutionary Guard Chief Coordinator Shedrack Nzeire. The esteemed guests were given an insightful tour of the various classrooms where students hone their skills.
The Nakulabye Skilling Center not only uplifts the trainees but also provides opportunities for the local community to engage in entrepreneurial activities, such as cooking for the students. This has empowered local women and contributed to economic growth within the community.
Dr Katana Faith, in her inspiring speech, emphasised the importance of reducing imports, particularly fabric, and praised the students for their exceptional expertise. She stated, “We are the industry now, and we want to make sure that the importation of goods stops because these students can do it all.”
Furthermore, Dr Katana addressed misconceptions about the funding of skilling centers, highlighting that skilling initiatives require substantial financial support and that such investments are a testament to the commitment of the State House.
Dr. Katana also commended the transformation of some students who had previously faced challenges in their communities, now serving as trainers themselves. She addressed concerns about the reluctance of some men to allow their wives or children to attend the center, clarifying that the primary focus is on education, and the safety of all students is ensured.
Inspector General of Government Hon. Betty Kamya encouraged the students to seize the opportunities they have been given and emphasized the importance of using their newfound skills to empower themselves and others. She underscored the need for the youth to play a vital role in combating corruption by providing essential information to the authorities.
Shedrack the coordinator of the Revolutionary Guards has also added his voice on the many saying that for him who has spent most of his time in Nakulabye, he knows how it was and he appreciates what it is today. He has also said that as revolutionary guards, they want to make sure that people get the services they need, “we are tired of the impunity, arrogance and the corruption in this country among the leaders and the local people”.
During the showcase, the trainees demonstrated their skills and presented fashion designs they had mastered during the six-month training. The event was also marked by captivating cultural dance performances, showcasing the holistic approach of the center, where co-curricular activities are integrated into the curriculum to nurture well-rounded individuals.
The Head of the Directorate of Industrial Training announced that the students would be examined at Level One, an equivalent qualification to a Senior Four certificate, further enhancing their educational credentials.
The Nakulabye Skilling Center continues to serve as a model for youth empowerment and community development, providing a platform for young individuals to unlock their full potential and contribute positively to society.
Woira Micheal
Communication Officer, GCIC STATE HOUSE
