Commonwealth's Alia Zafar Urges Ugandan Youth to Strategically Plan Careers

Ms Alia Zafar, Director of Human Resource and Facility Management at the Commonwealth Secretariat, arrived at Entebbe International Airport on March 17, 2026, ahead of her keynote at the 7th National Career Guidance Day at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds.

She advised youth to intentionally plan their professional growth, value their education-acquired skills, and seize available opportunities for sustainable careers. Zafar stressed strategic steps in career building and the vital role of mentorship, especially in STEM fields.

“Youth have been a force for good in all countries. When we look at education, especially STEM, we must also focus on how careers are developed and how mentorship can be strengthened,” she stated.

Zafar also highlighted embracing technology while navigating its challenges and opportunities. The Commonwealth supports youth pursuing development sector careers with guidance on key pathways.

Dr Kosea Wambaka, Chairman of Strategic Group of Companies, called for equipping youth with practical skills to generate self-employment, noting the limited public sector jobs and the dominance of private and informal sectors.

Ms Brenda Nakazibwe, representing the Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat, outlined government priorities in health, pathogen economy, aeronautics, space science, Industry 4.0, and e-mobility to foster sustainable development and bridge academia-industry gaps.

The event will gather policymakers, educators, and students to explore youth empowerment and job pathways in Uganda.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)