The Skilling the Girl/Boy Child initiative recently concluded its patriotism course, emphasising the integration of practical skills with national pride to foster personal and community growth among young Ugandans. Led by Dr. Faith Mirembe Katana, Director of the Presidential Initiative on Skilling the Girl/Boy Child (PISGBC) Project, the program aims to instill a positive attitude and patriotic values in the youth, addressing the widespread negative opinions and lack of knowledge about their country.
Dr. Katana stressed the importance of changing an entitled mindset to achieve both personal and national development. During a session with learners at the Mulago center, she noted, “Many young people hold negative opinions and lack knowledge about their country. Our focus is on instilling patriotism and a positive attitude. While skills and earning potential are crucial, changing an entitled mindset is essential for personal and national growth.”
Since its inception, the initiative has been instrumental in training underprivileged and ghetto children across various centers, including Wandegeya, Wabigalo, Mutundwe, Mulago, Kikoni, Nakulabye, Luzira Prisons, Subway, and Kigoowa. The recent patriotism course, held from May 15th to May 21st , involved activities such as morning drills, lectures on Uganda’s resources and patriotic core values, financial literacy, military drills, and environmental conservation.
On behalf of the students, a report was presented to the Minister and other distinguished guests detailing the activities since the commencement of the patriotism course on the 15th, which included morning drills and physical training; lectures on Uganda’s resources, patriotic core values, laws of development, and financial literacy; military drills and environmental conservation efforts; learning about opportunities and the importance of safeguarding Uganda; and understanding societal laws, managing success, financial management, business risk-taking, and discipline.
The students expressed their gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for providing free education and support. “Morning drills and lectures have strengthened our understanding of Uganda’s resources and patriotic values,” reported a student representative. “We learned about financial literacy, societal laws, and managing success. Military drills and environmental conservation were key components of our training. We are grateful to the President for the opportunity to study at no cost and for his parental care.”
Kampala’s Resident City Commissioner, Aminah Lukanga, highlighted the importance of patience and leveraging personal strengths for success. She advised, “Patience is essential for success; understand and leverage your strengths. Don’t let your weaknesses dominate you; efficiency attracts loyal customers. Be known for your positive contributions and integrity. In business, cooperation and dependability lead to recommendations. Love your work; it is the key to your livelihood.”
Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, Minister for Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs, commended the program’s emphasis on practical skills, noting their importance in education and life. “Skills were once mandatory in education because practical abilities are essential for life. It’s commendable that the Minister of Education has prioritized skill development in schools. Fully accredited qualifications and DIT exams are now within your reach, regardless of your educational background. Utilize government initiatives like PDM and the Youth Livelihood Program to create wealth and improve your financial situation. Excellent customer care ensures clients return and recommend your business; poor service drives them away.”
The Skilling the Girl/Boy Child initiative continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of Uganda’s youth by combining practical skills training with the development of a patriotic mindset, which is essential for the nation’s progress.
