Madi Leaders Push for ICT Labs at Presidential Skilling Hub to Prepare Youth for Digital Economy

What the report says

Leaders in Uganda’s Madi sub-region are asking State House to add ICT laboratories and computer-related training to the Madi Zonal Presidential Industrial Skilling Hub in Adjumani District, saying young people now need digital skills as well as vocational training to compete for jobs and start businesses. The call was raised at a stakeholders’ meeting held at the hub on Friday, July 31, 2026, which serves youth from Moyo, Adjumani and Obongi districts.

According to Watchdog Uganda, Mr. Geoffrey Filbert Ocaliap, the Moyo Resident District Commissioner and chairperson of the hub board, argued that trainees should leave with practical trade abilities and computer literacy. He said an ICT lab would support research on new technologies and could help open the way for computer studies at the centre. He also urged wider mobilisation so more vulnerable youth can access the free government programme.

State House was represented by Mr. Godfrey Longa, the Special Presidential Assistant on Political Affairs, who praised local support for the hubs programme. He said President Yoweri Museveni had released Shs8.8 billion for hub SACCOs nationwide as start-up capital, with Shs50 million going to each zonal hub SACCO. Longa said 121 beneficiaries in the Madi sub-region had already received support and said leaders should monitor the funds to ensure they are used productively.

The article also noted new value-addition projects at the hub, including a grain milling plant, an animal feed factory and modern silos. Beneficiaries cited by Watchdog Uganda said the programme had helped them start businesses and improve their livelihoods, underscoring why supporters want the hub expanded to include digital training.