Ninety-seven (97) youths have completed an intensive six-month training program at Busitema University in Tororo district, intended to provide them with marketable skills. Fully funded by Stanbic Bank, the program aligns with the government’s National Development Plan to invest in skills development to empower the youth and drive economic growth.
Eng. Dr. Joseph Ddumba Lwanga, the Dean Faculty of Engineering and Technology, speaking during the graduation ceremony, said, “The graduates represent a 97% completion rate, an indicator of commitment of all the stakeholders involved, including beneficiaries, sponsors, and implementers.” He added, “The beneficiaries were selected on merit from the different areas where Busitema University has operations.”
The graduates successfully completed courses in welding and metal fabrication, post-harvest handling, bricklaying and concrete practice, irrigation technologies, and automotive repair.
Diana Ondoga, Stanbic Bank’s Manager for Corporate and Social Investment, said it was a pleasure to witness the students graduating from the revitalized skills-based short-course training program, a testament to what can be achieved when collaboration aligns with a shared vision for progress.
The vocational training program, which began last year with 70 beneficiaries, expanded this year to provide 100 scholarship slots. This year, the bank contributed UGX 50 million to fund the program.
“At Stanbic Bank, our commitment goes beyond banking; we are dedicated to supporting initiatives that build human capacity, stimulate economic growth, and uplift communities,” said Ondoga. “This program exemplifies this dedication by equipping talented youth with practical, industry-relevant skills, empowering them to take charge of their futures and contribute meaningfully to our nation’s development.”
Ondoga emphasized that the partnership with Busitema University is a strategic plan to ensure that the country taps into its human resource potential and reaps the benefits.
“In a competitive world where relevance often outweighs formal education, we chose to partner with Busitema University among numerous investment opportunities. While we have allocated funds to various initiatives, this partnership stands out because it aligns with the National Development Plan and outlines practical skills and industry readiness as essential for community development and individual success,” Ondoga explained.
The development of this training program was introduced after the bank wanted to skill youth outside of school. “Over the past 10 years, we have run our flagship empowerment initiative, ‘Stanbic National Schools Championship,’ which has touched the lives of over 500,000 secondary school students. However, we asked ourselves, what about those out of school?” said Ondoga.
“That question led to the development of this programme, which provides an innovative solution to that challenge,” she stated.
The program is designed with a clear focus on closing the gap between education and industry needs, ensuring that the youth are job-ready and highly competent. “We hope that each graduate will leverage the skills acquired to create sustainable livelihoods, inspire others, and build a brighter future for their communities,” said Ondoga.
Prof. Paul Waako, the Vice Chancellor of Busitema University, applauded Stanbic Bank for its efforts in skilling the youth. He stated, “Let your actions and work speak for you. As you step into the communities to serve, remember that the quality of your services will determine the success of your enterprises.” He added, “Clients expect quality and good customer care. Without these, your qualifications alone won’t suffice.”
According to Ondoga, Stanbic is intentional about enhancing the all-around growth of women, youth, and farmers, especially through supporting initiatives that uplift their standards of living.
