NRM, ISBAT sign MOU to empower youth through education
The agreement, signed at the NRM headquarters at Kyadondo Road in Kampala on Monday, September 15, 2025, was witnessed by university officials, NRM leaders, and stakeholders from the education sector.
NRM secretary general Richard Todwong, in a yellow cap, noted that under the agreement, ISBAT University will offer both full and partial scholarships to NRM members pursuing studies in high-demand fields such as ICT, Business, Engineering, and Public Administration. Looking on (second from left) is ISBAT Chancellor Jachan Omach, while (third from left) is ISBAT Vice Chancellor Prof. Matthew Kalmatacal. (Photo by John Masaba)
By John Masaba
Journalists @New Vision
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In a strategic move to empower youth through education and skills development, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Secretariat has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with ISBAT University to offer scholarships and training opportunities to party members.
The agreement, signed at the NRM headquarters at Kyadondo Road in Kampala on Monday, September 15, 2025, was witnessed by university officials, NRM leaders, and stakeholders from the education sector.
NRM secretary general Richard Todwong praised ISBAT University for initiating the partnership and reaffirmed the party’s commitment to investing in human capital.
“On behalf of the National Resistance Movement, I would like to thank ISBAT University — the Chancellor, Vice Chancellor, and the entire leadership — for this partnership. We are grateful because one of our key priorities is empowering our young people with knowledge that is relevant to the market,” said Todwong.
Under the agreement, ISBAT University will offer both full and partial scholarships to NRM members pursuing studies in high-demand areas such as ICT, Business, Engineering, and Public Administration. The MOU also includes short-term training programs in digital skills, entrepreneurship, and leadership.
Todwong emphasised the importance of continuous learning, particularly for those in leadership roles.
“Society is constantly evolving — from rural-urban migration to changing job markets and lifestyles. Leaders must grow with it by continually upgrading their knowledge. You cannot lead a developing society if you’re not developing yourself,” he said.
With Uganda’s youth facing high unemployment, Todwong expressed hope that the initiative would help bridge the skills gap.
“We are fighting unemployment. Many young people are jobless not because there are no jobs, but because they lack the relevant skills. This partnership will equip them to become employable — or even self-employed — especially in rural areas where opportunities are underutilised.”
Asked why the party partnered specifically with ISBAT University, Todwong cited shared values and a strong community focus.
“We share the same vision — they think about the community, the country, and the youth. That is exactly what NRM stands for,” he added, encouraging other universities to follow ISBAT’s example.
Chancellor Jachan Omach, speaking at the ceremony, expressed appreciation to the NRM for choosing ISBAT as a partner in national development.
“We thank the Secretary General and the NRM for allowing us to enter into this agreement. We will ensure that the youth receive quality education from ISBAT,” he said.
Omach noted that ISBAT University, chartered in 2016, has grown into one of East Africa’s leading institutions for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Innovation (STEM), attracting students from over 32 countries.
“We were chartered under the leadership of President Museveni, and we continue to grow alongside the government and the party,” he said.
He also credited President Museveni for fostering a stable environment conducive to education:
“We thank His Excellency the President for ensuring peace and tranquillity that allows a supportive learning environment.”
Prof. Matthew Kalmatacal, Vice Chancellor of ISBAT University, emphasised the institution’s commitment to providing quality, market-driven education.
“This partnership reflects our shared vision with the NRM — to equip young Ugandans with relevant skills for today’s job market,” said Prof. Kalmatacal.
He underscored ISBAT’s focus on STEM education and innovation:
“ISBAT is proud to be among the top universities in East Africa for science, technology, and innovation. We aim to nurture a generation that can innovate, create, and lead.”
Prof. Kalmatacal said the university would work closely with the NRM Secretariat to determine scholarship allocations across various faculties.
“We will co-ordinate with the party to ensure deserving students receive access to quality education.”
He reaffirmed ISBAT’s commitment to national and regional development, noting its diverse student population and growing global reputation.