KANUNGU: The ICT and National Guidance Minister, Hon. Chris Baryomunsi, has praised the proprietors of Bwindi Vocational Institute College for their efforts in promoting vocational education and boosting tourism in Kanungu District.
Speaking on Sunday at a fundraising event aimed at completing the construction of a two-story ICT complex at the institute in Bwindi Buhooma Town Council, Kinkiizi West, Kanungu District, Baryomunsi emphasized the importance of vocational training. He noted that Ugandans who pursue vocational education often achieve greater success compared to those who solely seek white-collar jobs, urging the public to embrace vocational studies.
The Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to empowering private entities to establish vocational training centers, which are crucial in developing job creators who can contribute to innovation and technology in Uganda and beyond.
In support of the college, Baryomunsi pledged to donate 96 iron sheets for roofing the new block and personally contributed UGX 5 million, purchasing items including a cow that he donated to the students.
Hon. James Kaberuka, the Kinkiizi West legislator, urged the government to address the increasing issue of brain drain in Uganda. He pointed out that many young people are seeking less lucrative employment abroad due to a lack of opportunities in local industries.
Kaberuka emphasized the need to strengthen industrial skills and promote tea farming, noting that 30% of Kanungu District’s population benefits directly from the tea industry. He argued that supporting vocational skills could significantly boost GDP and employment rates, though he acknowledged that declining tea prices have made it difficult for parents to afford school fees.
Mr. Frank Byaruhanga, the Speaker of Kanungu District, commended the work of Mr. Agaba and Mrs. Mwajuma Twaha Adams, the proprietors of Bwindi Community Vocational College. He also urged the Ministry of Education & Sports to fully implement the TVET Act, which has yet to be properly integrated into the education system to help reduce unemployment levels.
According to Adams Agaba and Mwajuma Twongyeirwe, the college began in 2012, initially focusing on computer training for Senior Four and Senior Six graduates. Since then, the institution has expanded to offer a variety of vocational courses aimed at equipping Ugandans with practical skills and enhancing their knowledge of tourism.
The college, which started in temporary structures, is now housed in a permanent building on a two-acre plot. The directors are currently seeking over UGX 100 million to complete the two-story block, which will include office space, an ICT laboratory, and a boardroom.
The directors noted a significant gap in the education system, where many parents prioritize academic education over skills training. This has contributed to unemployment among graduates who wait for white-collar jobs instead of becoming job creators. Agaba emphasized that the institution was established to train Ugandans to be job creators, which will help reduce unemployment and enhance socio-economic empowerment.
Mwajuma Twongyeirwe, the Kanungu District Communications Officer and one of the directors, stated that a tourism course offered at the institution will equip locals with the knowledge needed to promote tourism in the area, which is one of Uganda’s top tourism destinations.
The directors expressed their gratitude to development partners, including Uganda Vocational Limited, the Directorate of Industrial Training, Omushana (Sunshine for Children), Kanungu District Local Government, local residents, and the business community in Bwindi Buhooma Town Council, for their financial support.
Over UGX 13 million and 44 bags of cement, among other construction materials, were raised during the event.
Minister Chris Baryomunsi was accompanied by his wife, Fosca Twebaze, Kanungu District NRM Chairperson Godfrey Karabenda, District Speaker Mr. Frank Byaruhanga, and LC5 aspirant Rev. Justus Tibesigwa, among other dignitaries.
Source: https://thesource.co.ug/education/minister-baryomunsi-commends-bwindi-vocational-institutes-role-in-skilling-and-tourism-development-in-kanungu/
