472 Apprentices Graduate Under National Skills Programme, Boost Hospitality Sector

A total of 472 apprentices have successfully completed their training under the National Apprenticeship Programme, a government initiative aimed at tackling youth unemployment and enhancing the hospitality sector’s readiness for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The graduates underwent a rigorous six-month workplace-based training curriculum, focusing on key areas such as food production, food and beverage service, front office operations, and housekeeping. Their achievements were recognized with certificates presented at a ceremony held at Hoima Resort Hotel.

Representing the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, State Minister for Gender and Culture Affairs Mary Kuteesa Kamuli, in a speech delivered on behalf of Minister Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Henry Tumukunde, emphasized the significance of the acquired skills. “They are a symbol of your skills, resilience and readiness to contribute to Uganda’s development,” she stated, urging the graduates to leverage their expertise for the nation’s economic progress.

This graduation ceremony marked the conclusion of the first and second cohorts of the program, a collaborative effort involving the Ministry, the Uganda Hotel Owners Association (UHOA), Be Better Academy, and Millennium Business School. The program is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and employment by providing practical, industry-relevant skills.

Permanent Secretary Aggrey David Kibenge highlighted the persistent challenge of youth unemployment in Uganda, noting the significant annual influx of young people into the labor market against a limited number of formal job opportunities. He called for the expansion of apprenticeship programs across various sectors to boost employability and productivity.

Susan Muhwezi, Chairperson of UHOA, underscored the importance of these newly skilled individuals, particularly in light of Uganda co-hosting the 2027 AFCON. “Infrastructure alone will not deliver a successful AFCON. We may construct and renovate beautiful hotels, but without competent chefs, waiters, housekeepers, front-office personnel, supervisors and managers, those investments will not achieve their full purpose,” she remarked.

Muhwezi also appealed to the government for an annual allocation of Shs2 billion to UHOA to further strengthen and coordinate apprenticeship training within the hospitality industry. One graduate, Simon Peter Murungi, expressed gratitude for the practical skills gained and advocated for the program’s expansion to diploma level.

Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/360594/472-apprentices-graduate-under-national-skills-programme