KAMPALA, UGANDA – The incumbent MP for Kawempe North, Elias Nalukoola, has pledged continued support for Apex Digital Skills, a youth-focused digital empowerment program, if re-elected in the upcoming 2026 polls.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!He made the pledge during a community outreach session with young innovators and tech trainees from Apex Digital Skills, a program launched in 2023 by activist Stella Nyanzi that offers training in digital marketing, computer literacy, coding, and creative media.
The initiative was developed to address unemployment and limited digital access among urban youth, particularly in Kampala’s informal settlements.
Nalukoola praised the initiative’s efforts, saying grassroots programs like Apex demonstrate the potential for locally driven solutions.
“We cannot ignore what’s being done here. If re-elected, I will advocate for resources and government partnerships to strengthen such innovations,” Nalukoola said.
Critics, however, contend that such pledges are seasonal and rarely lead to action, urging the MP to demonstrate more consistent engagement with youth programs outside of election periods.
During the event, Nalukoola interacted with trainees who highlighted challenges such as inadequate internet access, lack of equipment, and insufficient mentorship.
He acknowledged the gaps and pointed to the need for broader government involvement, suggesting the creation of a national digital skills fund to support hubs like Apex.
The absence of Apex founder Stella Nyanzi at the event drew some questions, but Nalukoola credited her for pioneering the program and promoting digital literacy among youth in underserved areas.
With elections approaching in 2026, the viability of Apex Digital Skills as a national model will depend on more than just campaign promises, shifting the spotlight to candidates’ concrete plans for innovation and employment.
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