Education

After nearly a year of learning and hard work, 27 young people have successfully completed vocational training under a skills development initiative aimed at supporting youth to build sustainable livelihoods.

The program, coordinated by ChildFund and Partners for Children Worldwide, began in January 2025 with the involvement of district leadership. Initially, more than 100 young people from Acowa and Aukum were identified, from which 30 were selected to participate. Although two participants dropped out due to domestic challenges and one sadly passed away, the remaining 27 persevered and completed the training.

David Orakin, who completed a course in motor vehicle mechanics, shared how the opportunity transformed his outlook on life.

“Many of us had lost hope because no one had given us such an opportunity before. We are grateful for being identified and supported. I plan to advance my studies and eventually open my own workshop,” he said, while encouraging his fellow graduates not to sell the tools they received.

The eight-month training was conducted in partnership with Uganda Martyrs Polytechnic College and Kaberamaido Technical Institute, institutions that equipped the youth with practical skills in trades such as motor vehicle mechanics, tailoring and salon services.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony, Moses Opoo, who oversees the vocational skilling program, expressed gratitude to the institutions that supported the initiative and nurtured the students throughout the training. He revealed that the program cost approximately Sh83.6 million and that plans are underway to support the training of an additional 50 youth next year.

Each graduate received a startup kit aligned with their trade, including sewing machines, toolboxes and salon equipment to help them begin earning a livelihood. Graduates were encouraged to use the tools productively rather than selling them, emphasizing that the kits are meant to help them establish businesses and lift themselves out of poverty.

Charles Epau, Assistant Academic Registrar at Uganda Martyrs Polytechnic College, noted that the institution has previously employed young people from similar programs and that they have proven to be hardworking and capable. “I encourage you all to continue honing your skills and pursuing excellence.”

Similarly, Moses Angeny, Principal of Kaberamaido Technical Institute, urged the graduates to apply their newly acquired knowledge with passion and integrity. He encouraged them to remain innovative, curious, and adaptable in a constantly changing world. “Be job creators rather than job seekers. True success comes from using one’s skills to uplift others in the community,” he said.

The Deputy Soroti City Clerk commended ChildFund and its partner PfCW for working closely with Soroti City to support vulnerable youth. He noted that the initiative complements government efforts, particularly at a time when public resources remain limited. She also highlighted the importance of patience and resilience among young people as they navigate opportunities such as the government’s youth funding initiatives.

Delivering remarks on behalf of ChildFund, Titus Tumusiime acknowledged that the journey had not been easy for the participants, many of whom had faced moments of doubt along the way. However, he reminded them that perseverance is often the turning point in transforming one’s story.

“ChildFund believes in the collective power of action. When communities come together, they can change their story,” he said. “Today, we send you out as individuals who have the potential to become experts in your chosen fields. Do not forget where you have come from, your families, your communities, and your siblings.”

Tumusiime likened the tools distributed to the graduates to the biblical parable of the talents, symbols of opportunity and responsibility.