Wakiso Leaders Urge Youth to Embrace Vocational Skills to Boost Incomes

What the report says

Wakiso District leaders have called on young people to take up vocational training and use it to start income-generating businesses, arguing that practical skills can help reduce dependence on formal employment and improve livelihoods. The appeal was made at a graduation ceremony in Bakka, Wakiso District, where trainees completed courses in areas such as cake making, tailoring, beauty therapy and hairdressing.

The event brought together district officials, graduates and trainers. Wakiso District Deputy Chairperson Edward Ntalo, speaking on behalf of the leadership, encouraged the new graduates to apply what they had learned and build self-reliance through work. He said vocational education can make it easier for people to launch small businesses and earn an income. Other guests at the ceremony also urged the graduates not to let the skills go unused.

The training was conducted by Alpha Uganda, a non-governmental organisation that says it works with communities to provide practical skills for livelihoods. Alpha Uganda team lead Tendo Sserwadda said many people, especially women, have the ability to contribute to their communities but need hands-on training to turn that potential into economic activity. Graduates thanked the organisation and pledged to use their new skills to support themselves and contribute to community development.

The report reflects a broader push in Uganda and elsewhere in East Africa to promote technical and vocational education as a path to youth employment, entrepreneurship and local economic growth.