As Uganda pushes toward a greener and more sustainable future, experts are calling for a stronger focus on gender inclusivity in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
The new TVET policy is being urged to prioritize the girl child, ensuring a larger and more diverse skill pool.
This comes as the Austria Development Association (ADA) and Sendea Academy collaborate to train hundreds of young women in technical fields like plumbing, agriculture, and electrical systems.
Breaking Barriers in Technical Fields
The training programs, conducted at vocational institutes in Kamuli, Palabek, and Bombo, aim to equip young women with practical skills in high-demand areas such as off-grid solar system design, electrical installations, and sustainable agriculture.
Salima Nanyanzi, a beneficiary of the program, shared her journey: “My initial training was in bio-systems engineering, but I added solar installation skills through a course at Nakawa Vocational Training Institute. This additional training helped me secure a job with Solar Grid Uganda Limited.”
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Real Stories, Real Impact
Clare Afoyo, an electrical student at Don Bosco Vocational Training Institute in Bombo, is another success story. Through the Gender Matters for Green TVET program, she interned with WENRECO, an energy firm in West Nile.
“The internship gave me hands-on experience in electrical work. I learned to ride a motorcycle for fieldwork and can now climb electric poles to fix issues. I urge young girls to believe in themselves—there’s so much we can achieve,” Afoyo said confidently.
Addressing Unemployment Through Skilling
Loy Kyozaire, CEO of Sendea Academy, emphasized the importance of these initiatives in tackling unemployment and gender disparities in the job market.
“We are strengthening skills in electrical installations, plumbing, agriculture, and off-grid solar systems—areas with a significant technician shortage,” she explained.
The program provides trainees with a Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT) certificate, enabling them to upgrade their skills further.
“These certifications open doors for more opportunities and career growth,” Kyozaire added.
Transforming Lives Through Practical Training
Takia Nakaazi, a plumbing technician, completed her internship with newfound confidence.
“My family and friends can’t believe I can install plumbing accessories at my age. The internship gave me practical skills, and I’m ready to work anywhere,” she said.
Similarly, Linda Zawedde, trained in agriculture at Bukalasa Agricultural Training College, now handles farm activities and livestock management with ease.
“I can prepare fields, plant, weed, and manage harvests. This training has changed my life,” she shared.
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A Vision for the Future
The Gender Matters for Green TVET program aims to train 500 young women in vocational skills over the next year.
Stephen Egesa, a Job Service Officer under the program, noted the overwhelming interest from participants.
“We’re committed to placing these apprentices in roles that expand their skills and protect them in new environments. This initiative is vital for Uganda’s growth and development,” Egesa said.
Why Gender Matters in Green TVET
The program highlights the critical role of gender-focused skilling in addressing unemployment and bridging the skills gap in Uganda.
By empowering young women with technical skills, the initiative not only transforms individual lives but also contributes to the nation’s sustainable development goals.
As Uganda continues to invest in green technologies and vocational training, programs like Gender Matters for Green TVET are paving the way for a more inclusive and skilled workforce.
