Karamoja Leaders Urge for More Skilling Hubs to Combat Youth Unemployment

Residents and leaders in the Karamoja sub-region have implored the government to increase the number of skilling hubs to tackle the pervasive issues of youth unemployment and poverty.

High school dropout rates, driven by poverty, early marriages, and cultural norms, are a significant concern. Community members argue that equipping young people with practical skills like tailoring, beadwork, and crafts is crucial for economic empowerment.

“Many parents are reluctant to let girls travel long distances for training due to cultural concerns,” stated Ms. Selhn Chemkea, a youth from Amudat District, advocating for sub-county level skilling centers. Others highlighted that idleness and lack of opportunities are pushing youth towards destructive behaviors, with skills training offering a pathway to productivity.

Religious and cultural leaders also emphasized the need for youth empowerment and mentorship to counter harmful cultural practices and unemployment. They pointed out that existing skilling institutions are often too distant for many in rural areas to access.

Moreover, leaders suggested that government poverty-alleviation programs could be more effective if beneficiaries were first equipped with practical skills. Initiatives focusing on agriculture, such as irrigation and kitchen gardening, were also proposed to aid communities during dry seasons.

Karamoja faces severe socio-economic challenges, with poverty levels significantly higher than the national average. Statistics indicate a concerning trend of school dropouts, particularly from primary to secondary levels, highlighting the urgent need for skills development and employment opportunities.

According to the Daily Monitor, communities in Karamoja have appealed to the government to establish more skilling hubs in the area to address economic challenges and youth unemployment.