Uganda possesses one of the youngest populations globally, a demographic dividend ready to propel considerable national growth. The well-being of youth therefore is critical if the country is to harness that dividend and remain a key player in social and economic transformation.
Through our economic empowerment arm, the ROM Social Enterprise (ROMSE), 66 beneficiaries who completed vocational skills training under the Maternal & Childcare, Education, and the Adolescents & Young Women integrated projects at ROM graduated.
Held at ROM Banda site, the ceremony brought together local leaders, staff, and community members to celebrate the transformation of young people equipped with practical skills to positively transform livelihoods. Startup kits were shared to all as part of individual career development pathways. Starting with a mass, Fr. Ben Chola emphasized the need for personal transformation and purposeful living among the graduates.
“This graduation means you are now transformed and responsible for making your life a good one. God blesses us when we live well and does not judge us based on our past. Use this skill to be the shepherd of your own life, just as God is the shepherd of our lives. Above all, you are ambassadors of ROM. Go out there and testify. Use your skills to transform your lives."
Mr. Nathan Masaaba, LC1 Chairperson, Mbuya 1 Zone 2 commended ROM for impacting the community also noted.
“To the graduates, this is just the beginning. Be courageous, face the world, and do not fear to maximize your full potential. Character matters: go out and show the world the knowledge ROM has given you,”
Ms. Chrispine Wanyahoro, the Executive Director of Compassionate of Works Association (COWA) Uganda and partner in creating pathways to employment for youth skilled at ROM highlighted the importance of transitioning graduates into the workforce.
"You are entering the field of work, which can tell you more about yourself. This is an opportunity to discover who you are. We are partnering with ROM and other organizations on job placement services to create a bridge where you can meet the company before you work there."
Mr. Ogal Ronald, Initiatives Manager of the SHE SOARS Project at Care International Uganda (Middle), noted that the ceremony is a fulfillment of one of CARE’s core initiatives of empowering women and girls.
The SHE SOARS Project seeks to empower out-of-school youth and young people with health information and skills to make informed choices about their lives while improving their livelihood.
“While people need information about their health, they also need a skill to earn something. As CARE, we believe that girls who are empowered can make decisions that are not influenced by economic disempowerment and vulnerability. These days, technology has come up; take advantage of it, start repackaging, gain additional skills, and build onto what you have,”