Lira, Uganda – A transformative initiative in the Lango Subregion is giving hope to hundreds of young Ugandans.
The Presidential Skilling Hub, located behind Lira University, is equipping 233 youth with life-changing vocational skills that promise to reshape their futures and contribute to national development.
Established as part of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s vision to tackle unemployment, the hub offers hands-on training in Carpentry, Welding, Tailoring & Fashion Design, Hairdressing, Blocklaying & Concrete Practice, and Leatherwork.
The students, 116 girls and 117 boys, are preparing for their Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT) assessments, with graduation set for early 2025.
The hub has become a sanctuary for young people from diverse backgrounds, including orphans and street children.
Among them is Atim Winny from Amolatar District, who is pursuing a certificate in Hairdressing.
“This initiative has transformed our lives. It’s not just about the skills but also the values and patriotism we’ve gained. I thank President Museveni for this life-changing opportunity,” she said.
Similarly, Guild President Lero Richard from Ayami Subcounty shared how the program is a game-changer.
“Since joining in August, I have gained invaluable skills that will transform my life and enable me to contribute to society,” he said.
The instructors, too, are impressed by the dedication of the students.
Ayer Daniel, who oversees Metal Fabrication, shared that his department trains 40 students, including three girls.
Ronald Okello, Head of the Tailoring Department, highlighted the high female participation in his program, with 38 girls and one boy.
During a visit to the hub on December 12, Otuke District RDC and Chairperson of the Board of Governors, George Abdul, praised the initiative’s impact.
“This training is more than just skilling—it is a pathway to independence. With the certificates equivalent to the Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE), graduates can pursue further studies or employment opportunities,” he noted.
Abdul also revealed plans to expand the hub’s offerings, including courses in mechanics, and emphasized the importance of discipline.
By equipping youth with skills, discipline, and opportunities, the Presidential Skilling Hub is creating a generation ready to lead Uganda into a brighter future.
This initiative exemplifies how focused vocational training can transform lives, empower communities, and build a more self-reliant nation.
He highlighted that well-behaved graduates from previous intakes have benefited from opportunities such as joining the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
Looking ahead, the hub will officially be inaugurated in January 2025 by President Museveni.
The program also plans to support graduates with group funding to start businesses, ensuring they can apply their skills and achieve financial independence.
Despite its success, the hub faces challenges, including a 7-student dropout rate due to personal issues like pregnancies and family pressures.
Abdul called for a review of recruitment processes to better address these challenges and ensure higher retention rates.
As the hub prepares for its inaugural graduation in early 2025, it stands as a symbol of hope and progress.
