JOB CREATION KEY FOCUS AS KCCA DIRECTOR ADDRESSES YOUTH GRADUATION

Job creation took center stage at the recent Boundless Minds Corps graduation ceremony, hosted at the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Employment Services Bureau, where 18 youths marked the conclusion of their intensive 5-month work readiness training.

Sheila Gandi Birungi, the Director for Gender Community Services and Production at KCCA, commended the graduates on Thursday for their dedication and emphasized the critical role of such programs in empowering young people to combat unemployment.

"We are very proud of the youths we’ve had here," Birungi stated, highlighting KCCA's success in equipping over 10,000 young individuals with vital work readiness skills. These include basic ICT, life skills, graphics, and videography, resulting in an impressive 80% employment rate among program beneficiaries.

Birungi stressed the importance of collective action in addressing youth unemployment, a pervasive challenge across Africa. She expressed gratitude for collaborative efforts and called for sustained support to expand initiatives like the Employment Services Bureau, which prepares youths for the labor market through skill development.

Established in partnership with Boundless Minds since 2018, KCCA has equipped 5,000 youths with practical skills such as CV writing, career guidance, and entrepreneurship. This partnership aims to enhance youths' soft skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for today's competitive job market.

As the ceremony concluded, Birungi encouraged the graduates to embrace self-confidence and pursue their career aspirations with determination. "Job creation is one of the key pathways to a brighter future," she affirmed, urging the graduates to seize opportunities and contribute positively to society.

The founder of Boundless Minds, Benjamin Rukwenge, echoed Birungi's sentiments, commending the graduates and reaffirming the organization's commitment to nurturing talent and fostering economic empowerment.

Job creation stands as a cornerstone of KCCA's Smart City agenda, particularly under the pillar of people's wellbeing.

Similar to other progressive cities worldwide, KCCA is steadfast in its commitment to fostering employment opportunities and equipping youth with the necessary skills for meaningful careers.

This initiative aims to empower young people by providing them with the skills and resources essential for success in today's competitive job market.

By prioritizing job creation within its Smart City agenda, KCCA not only aims to enhance economic opportunities but also to foster a thriving community where every individual can contribute meaningfully to societal progress.

By Abisagi Nalwadda and Fatumah Nabulime