Private vocational institutes seek govt partnership

WAKISO - Private investors in the education sector have urged the government to collaborate with them in enhancing the presidential skilling programs.

Marth Osiro, the director of the Enlight Vocational Institute in Matugga, expressed enthusiasm during the institution's inaugural graduation ceremony, which took place on October 11, 2024, and celebrated the achievements of over 30 students.

"We have established these facilities to support the communities and the nation, which can also serve as centers for the Presidential Initiative on Skilling the Girl and Boy Child (PISGBC)," stated Osiro.

Marth Osiro (C) director Enlight Vocational Institute in Matugga celebrates with some of the directors and graduates during the first graduation ceremony the institution on October 11, 2024. (Credit: Nicholas Oneal)

The graduates were awarded certificates in a variety of fields, including automotive mechanics, fashion and design, electrical maintenance, welding and metal fabrication, hotel management, beauty and cosmetology, information and communication technology (ICT), and plumbing.

“This is what the president has been talking about, skilling the girl and boys’ child, I thank the directors of this institute for helping the government in carrying out some of its initiatives,” said Hillary Musoke, the private Secretary to President of Uganda for Youth, in Agriculture, Value addition, Export promotion.

The practical skills, according to Musoke, will enable young people to establish their own businesses or secure higher wages in the expanding industrial parks across the nation.

Osiro (L) tours students' activities during the institution's first graduation ceremony. (Credit: Nicholas Oneal)

“Just like the government has come up with partnerships with private companies and individuals like in education, businesses and health sectors, I call upon the government to partner with vocational institutions by providing the needed tools, pay tuition for the needy especially those who were affected by the insurgencies,” he noted.

The institute was established by friends Sylvia Kyako, Martha Osiro, and Elijah Osiro, who met abroad with the aspiration of contributing to their home communities to effect positive change.

Among the 30 students who graduated, 27 have already secured employment in various fields.

“This is a great achievement for the institute and the students. This is the impact we are looking for in the communities,” Martha Osiro noted.

Enlight Vocational Institute was founded in 2021 in response to the demands of the youth in Kiryamuli ward, Matugga.

The young individuals recognized the emerging opportunities presented by the expanding factories in their vicinity but found themselves lacking the necessary skills.

The institute's certificates are accredited by the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT).