education 20 June 2026 State House (Uganda)
Uganda to Expand Industrial Skilling Hubs with 17 New Centers
President Yoweri Museveni plans to establish 17 new Presidential Zonal Industrial Skilling Hubs across Uganda. This initiative coincides with the enrollment of 4,560 youth in the sixth intake at the current 19 hubs, aiming to boost vocational training and combat unemployment. Source: https://statehouse.go.ug/president-museveni-to-establish-17-more-industrial-hubs-as-intake-six-enrolls-4560-youth
Uganda is set to significantly expand its network of Presidential Zonal Industrial Skilling Hubs with the planned addition of 17 new centers. This expansion comes as the nation welcomes 4,560 young people into the sixth intake at the existing 19 hubs.
These hubs, initiated by President Museveni, provide free vocational training in trades such as carpentry, welding, tailoring, and mechanics. Learners receive accommodation, meals, and training materials, culminating in certificates recognized by the Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB), equivalent to the Uganda Certificate of Education.
According to Eng. Raymond Kamugisha, Director of Presidential Projects and Industrial Hubs, the new centers are slated for construction within the current financial year. “We have enrolled 4,560 students this year. Before the end of the current Financial Year, State House will commence the construction of 17 additional hubs across the country to increase access to skills training and empower more young people,” Eng. Kamugisha stated.
Graduates from these programs have reported significant improvements in their livelihoods, with many establishing their own businesses. The government’s Shs50 million revolving fund for graduate SACCOs at the district level further supports these entrepreneurial endeavors, providing crucial start-up capital.
The training modules emphasize not only technical proficiency but also discipline, patriotism, and a mindset shift towards becoming job creators. Military drills are incorporated to foster discipline and character development among the trainees, a feature praised for its role in shaping responsible citizens.
The Presidential Zonal Industrial Skilling Hubs program is a key government strategy to address youth unemployment and foster economic growth through skills development.