In Uganda, there are 19 industrial hubs where people can learn skills like tailoring, welding, carpentry, and confectionery for six months. The State House is now planning to provide certificates to artisans who have acquired skills through work experience.
Eng. Raymond Kamugisha, the director of Presidential Projects and Industrial Hubs, announced this development on September 26. He explained that artisans like carpenters, electricians, welders, and others who gained their skills through practical work will be trained at these industrial hubs for one week and then receive Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT) certificates.
These certificates will allow skilled artisans to have their abilities officially recognized, which could be equivalent to a Senior Four qualification in Uganda. Additionally, these certificates may be useful for those aspiring to run for elective positions that require an Advanced Level certificate.
Eng. Kamugisha shared this information during a Stakeholders’ meeting at the Mengo Zonal Industrial Hub in Nazigo Town Council, Kayunga District. The meeting was attended by various officials from different districts, and each district has been allocated 20 slots for this program.
The primary aim of these industrial hubs is to empower unemployed youth, enabling them to become job creators rather than job seekers. Furthermore, artisans who lack modern tools will have access to these tools at the hubs for a minimal fee.
Eng. Kamugisha emphasized the government’s commitment to further support graduates from these hubs, even offering additional training if needed. The government intends to collect graduates’ data and their parents’ information to facilitate this support.
To address limited land resources, the industrial hubs will also teach urban farming practices to ensure food security. Eng. Kamugisha stressed the importance of not enrolling learners below the age of 18, in compliance with labor laws.
Upon graduation, the graduates will receive seed capital to help them start their own businesses. Moses Mabala, the Wakiso District Commercial Officer, suggested adding business management and financial literacy lessons to the program to equip learners with essential skills for running successful businesses.
Moses Karangwa, the Kayunga District NRM chairman, proposed giving priority to NRM supporters when enrolling learners, particularly in larger districts like Wakiso.