1,300 young people across 10 technical and vocational institutions have been awarded scholarships to pursue practical skills that can open pathways to work, entrepreneurship and livelihoods.
Through the Uganda eLearning Initiative, implemented by Cyber School Technology Solutions in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, the scholarship opportunities are supporting young people aged 15–35 years, with a focus on expanding access for young women and girls, refugees and persons with disabilities.
The scholarships are being offered across 10 participating institutions: Amelo Technical Institute, NUYDC, Kilak Corner Technical Institute, Uganda Technical College – Lira, St. Kizito – Madera, Kapchorwa Technical Institute, Nakapiripirit, Uganda Technical College – Elgon, MMCP and Bududa Vocational Academy.
The scholarships cover a wide range of technical and vocational courses, including welding and metal fabrication, building construction, domestic electrical installation, solar installation, motor vehicle repair and maintenance, motorcycle repair, bakery and bread making, vegetable growing and horticulture, poultry, rabbit and piggery keeping, hairdressing and hair cutting, among others.
By providing access to skills training, the programme is creating opportunities for young people who may otherwise face barriers to accessing technical and vocational education. For young women, refugees and persons with disabilities in particular, access to relevant skills can be an important step towards greater economic participation and independence.
Across the 10 institutions, the scholarship programme is helping open doors for young people to develop practical skills aligned with opportunities in their communities and the wider economy.