By Naboth Isaac Niwagaba.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!As I reflect on my visit to the Kigezi Industrial Hub in Kamuganguzi last year in December, I am compelled to express my heartfelt appreciation to President Yoweri Museveni for initiating this transformative program.
At the entrance of the Hub, you’re welcomed by very friendly and Hospitable men dressed in UPDF Uniform. I never found it important to ask about their roles at the Hub, but I assumed that they are providing security and lessons about patriotism. Never mind. This is not my primary subject.
During my visit, I was struck by the enthusiasm and gratitude of the students, majority of whom are young people who completed Senior Four and Senior Six but were unable to pursue higher education due to financial constraints. Many of these students come from vulnerable backgrounds, including double orphans or those with single parents, mostly single mothers. Despite their challenging circumstances, their faces lit up with smiles as they shared their appreciation for the government’s support.
I was also impressed by the hub’s management, which allows students to receive visitors at any time of the week. This gesture has helped to compensate for the lack of holidays, enabling students to maintain connections with their loved ones. Furthermore, the students are permitted to keep their phones, which has helped them stay in touch with family and friends back home.
Aside from tailoring, Salon Hair dressing, Shoe Making, and other many skills, being taught at the hub, the students are also taken through physical fitness drills such as jogging and they have enough playing time.
However, I do have two concerns that I hope the government will address. Firstly, the students are required to stay at the hub for six months without holidays, which could take a psychological toll on these young people. Although they seem to be coping well, I believe it’s essential to provide them with regular breaks to recharge and maintain their mental well-being.
Secondly, I propose that the government sets aside a budget to provide seed capital to graduates of the Industrial Hub. This would enable them to start their own businesses and put their newly acquired skills to use. Alternatively, districts could adopt the Rubanda District approach, which targets Industrial Hub graduates as a priority group for PDM Funds and Emyooga. I commend the Chairman of Rubanda District, Stephen Kasyaba and his Council, the RDC Eric Ssewandigi, and the entire District Administration for their initiative, which demonstrate their commitment to empowering the youth in his district.
In conclusion, the Kigezi Industrial Hub is a beacon of hope for Uganda’s youth, and I commend the management for their dedication to empowering these young people. With additional support from the government, I am confident that this program will continue to have a profound impact on the lives of these students and their communities.
The writer is a Journalist, and Radio Presenter attached to Hope FM Radio, Kabale, Uganda Radio Network, The Source Ug, and Western Pearl News.
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