Greening Uganda’s Future: EU Allocates €50 Million for Youth Skill Enhancement
In an effort to empower the youth in Uganda with skills in the green sector, the European Union (EU) and the Belgian government have earmarked 50 million Euros for the next five years. The focus is on sectors such as sustainable and smart agriculture, renewable energy, and information and communication technology (ICT).
EU Ambassador to Uganda, Jan Sadek, announced this initiative during an awareness meeting on EU scholarship programs at Makerere University Business School (MUBS). The aim is to encourage applications and provide opportunities for youth to contribute to the green economy.
Sadek emphasized the EU’s commitment to global skill development through programs like Erasmus Plus, which has been fostering international cooperation since 1987. He highlighted that the benefits extend beyond academic achievements, enriching participants’ lives both professionally and personally.
The Erasmus Plus program, according to Sadek, is designed not only to enhance academic knowledge but also to increase job creation, particularly for young individuals. The focus on sectors like sustainable agriculture and renewable energy aligns with global efforts towards a greener and more sustainable future.
MUBS Acting Principal, Professor Moses Muhweezi, expressed the institution’s support for staff members interested in participating in EU programs. He acknowledged the importance of international experiences in shaping a well-rounded educational environment.
The awareness initiative was organized by the African Students and Alumni Forum (ASAF), a platform uniting beneficiaries of various EU education sponsorship programs. The forum aims to share experiences and insights, encouraging others to take advantage of these opportunities.
Jackie Mirembe, a past beneficiary of the Erasmus Mundus program, shared her success story, stating that her involvement in the program opened doors to teaching at Kyambogo University and securing a position with the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS). The experiences of past beneficiaries like Mirembe serve as inspiration for others seeking to enhance their skills and contribute to societal development.
