education 30 June 2026 Nile Post
Makerere Climate Initiative Empowers Youth with Green Skills
The Africa Climate Collaborative at Makerere University, backed by the Mastercard Foundation, has launched a new Youth Skilling Programme to equip young Ugandans with practical, market-driven skills for green enterprises and climate resilience. Kicking off with 50 participants from climate-vulnerable districts, the initiative aims to train 500 young people over eight years. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/352459/makerere-climate-initiative-launches-youth-skilling-programme-to-promote-green-enterprises
The Africa Climate Collaborative, housed at Makerere University and supported by the Mastercard Foundation, has initiated a Youth Skilling Programme designed to foster green entrepreneurship and enhance climate resilience among young Ugandans. This program targets individuals who have completed at least Senior Four but have not pursued higher education, aiming to bridge the gap in employment and skills development.
The pilot phase will involve 50 young people from Lwengo, Rakai, and Yumbe districts. These districts were strategically chosen due to their high vulnerability to climate change impacts. The programme’s long-term vision is to train a total of 500 young individuals over its eight-year duration.
Professor Gorettie Nabanoga, the Programme Director, explained that the initiative addresses the significant number of youth who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET). “We realised that there are several young people who never got an opportunity to attend university or pursue higher education… We are intentionally creating pathways that enable them to acquire practical skills,” she stated.
For the initial cohort, training will focus on the poultry value chain, covering aspects from feed production to waste management. This sector was selected for its potential to generate employment and foster innovation. Participants will learn climate-smart production methods, aiming to reduce environmental impact while boosting productivity.
Selected participants are expected to become trainers themselves, returning to their communities to establish sustainable enterprises and mentor other young people. This multiplier effect is intended to create a widespread adoption of climate-resilient business practices.
Local leaders have lauded the initiative, highlighting its potential to combat youth unemployment and promote self-reliance. Officials from Rakai District noted the critical need for such programs, especially for those who finish secondary education with limited prospects. The programme is seen as a vital step toward economic empowerment and community transformation.