The State Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Sarah Nyirabashitsi Mateke, who also serves as the woman Member of Parliament for Kisoro District, has urged the youth to embrace vocational skills as a means of addressing the high unemployment rate in the country.
This appeal was made while she was a guest at the fundraising event for the Gitovu Institute of Skills and Technology, a project of Gitovu Church of Uganda Parish in Mupaka Town Council, Kisoro District.
Minister Sarah revealed that vocational and skills institutions equip learners to become job creators with enhanced innovation and creativity, which leads to a reduction in unemployment and an improvement in self-employment opportunities. She also encouraged residents to participate in government programs and projects to help eradicate poverty in their homes.
Bufumbira North Legislator Hon. Kamara Nizeyimana John, who was the chief guest, advised parents to prioritize educating their children to enhance their critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and future economic earning potential.
Meanwhile, the Archdeacon of Gitovu Archdeaconry, Rev. Charles Mutabazi, called on Christians to unite and cooperate to complete the construction of the Gitovu Institute of Skills and Technology.
Over 14 million shillings was raised at the fundraising event, with Minister Sarah contributing 1 million and Hon. Kamara contributing 2 million.
