Equity Bank Uganda, Nation Media Group Uganda, and partners have launched a two-day NTV SkillsFest at Motiv Kampala, Old Portbell Road, from August 16-17, 2024, under the theme “Explore and Elevate”. The event coincides with the ongoing Youth Week celebrations in Uganda and globally.
The NTV SkillsFest aims to address the challenges faced by Ugandan youth, including unemployment and a lack of relevant skills for the current job market.
The two-day event features interactive workshops, hands-on activities, exhibitions, a master class, and industry expert advisory sessions. These sessions focus on technology, art, crafts, and entrepreneurship, enabling participants to explore new ideas, networks, and resources for skill development and career growth.
Nelson Mugisha, Manager Enterprise Development at Equity Bank Uganda, emphasized the importance of institutional support in youth development. “Equity Bank is committed to empowering the youth through several financing efforts and partnerships with NGOs to enhance service delivery.” He cited the success of collaborative projects like Young Africa Works, which has provided financial support to over 36,000 microbusinesses in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.
Ismail Mulindwa, Commissioner Basic Education at the Ministry of Education and Sports, reiterated the ministry’s commitment to education and youth empowerment. “This training supports the various training programs we have as a ministry responsible for training people in the nation. Education is key to the growth of our country; it is through education that we acquire the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to navigate and thrive in the ever-changing world.”
Susan Nsibirwa, Managing Director for Nation Media Group, highlighted the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors and the role of media in educating and empowering young people in Uganda. “NTV Uganda’s mission is to use media platforms to inform youth about skills and opportunities, urging them to explore and elevate their potential.”
The event recognizes the significant role of Uganda’s youth, who make up over 77% of the population under 25 years old, in driving social-economic transformation through entrepreneurship and digital innovation. Equity Bank’s Young Africa Works program, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, provides unsecured loans to empower youth enterprises, addressing challenges like limited access to capital, unemployment, and wealth creation.
