Uganda’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector is continuing to expand, growing at an estimated 15 percent annually and creating new opportunities for young people to gain digital skills, showcase their talents and contribute to national development.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, Hon. Hajjat Aminah Zawedde, says more than 600 young people have benefited from the Uganda–Japan Connect (UJ-Connect) programme, which is aimed at strengthening digital skills and creating opportunities for youth in Uganda.
Hajjat Zawedde made the remarks while officiating as the Chief Guest at the ICT Hub Nakawa during a meeting held to review the progress, achievements and impact of the programme.
She said the growth of the ICT sector presents a great opportunity for young Ugandans, but noted that challenges remain, especially in creating enough markets and platforms where young people can apply, promote and commercialise their digital skills.
The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working with different partners to address these challenges and ensure that young innovators have access to opportunities within the digital economy.
She encouraged young people to register with the Ministry of ICT so that they can access available opportunities, government-supported programmes and other initiatives aimed at improving their digital skills and careers.
Hajjat Zawedde also urged institutions implementing the UJ-Connect programme to ensure that different skills and programmes acquired by beneficiaries are integrated to create sustainable opportunities beyond the project period.
Meanwhile, a Japanese representative praised Uganda for its creativity, talent and innovation, describing the country as rich in unique abilities that can support economic transformation.
The representative pledged continued cooperation with the Ugandan government in supporting Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy, while also highlighting some of the challenges faced during the implementation of the programme.
Beneficiaries of the UJ-Connect initiative shared their experiences, explaining how the programme has improved their skills, opened new opportunities and helped them become more confident in using technology for personal and economic growth.
They encouraged other young Ugandans to remain alert, embrace available opportunities and continue developing their digital skills as the country moves towards a stronger digital economy.
The UJ-Connect programme is expected to continue playing a key role in preparing young people to participate in Uganda’s growing technology sector and benefit from emerging opportunities in the digital world.
