Through our economic empowerment arm, the ROM Social Enterprise (ROMSE), 66 beneficiaries who had completed vocational skills training graduated. These have also been under the support of the Maternal and Childcare, SidEcole and SHE SOARS projects at its Banda site.
The ceremony brought together local leaders, staff, and community members to celebrate the transformation of young people equipped with practical skills to improve their livelihoods.
The event started with a mass, and Father Chola Ben emphasized the need for personal transformation and purposeful living among the graduates.
“This graduation means you are transformed. You are now 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.”
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:
Ms. Wanyahoro (L) hands over a start-up kit to a graduate of hairdressing.
“You are entering the field of work, which can tell you more about yourself. This is an opportunity to discover who you are,” she said.
Adding, “We are partnering with ROM and other organizations on job placement services. We want to create a bridge where you can meet the company before you work there.”
Mr. Ogal Ronald, Initiatives Manager of the SHE SOARS Project noted that the ceremony is a fulfillment of one of CARE’s core initiatives of empowering women and girls.
“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,” he said.
Mr. Nathan Masaaba, LC1 Chairperson, Mbuya 1 Zone 2 commended the ROM staff for their impact in the community and parents for their support.
Mr. Masaaba Speaking to Graduates
“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,” he advised the graduates.
