More than 120 youths and community members in Kazo district have successfully completed a five-day ICT and multimedia training programme held at Compassion hall in Kazo town council.

The programme which concluded today, aimed at equipping participants with practical digital skills to navigate Uganda’s expanding digital and money economy.

The training was funded by Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) through the Uganda Communications Universal Service and Access Fund (UCUSAF) and implemented by Goldserve, a digital skilling and capacity-building organization.

During the five days, trainees were introduced to a range of technology-based skills intended to transform smart phones into tools for productivity and income generation. The areas of training included: Smartphone navigation and general digital literacy, content creation in photography, videography and editing, social media marketing, e-commerce and online business tools, e-learning platforms and digital education resources, digital monetization and earning from online spaces, accessing scholarships and online opportunities, safe and responsible internet use among others.

A digital platform was also created to keep the beneficiaries connected for mentorship, collaboration and knowledge sharing even after the programme.

Facilitators emphasized that the purpose of the programme was to empower young people to view mobile phones not only as communication devices, but as tools for accessing jobs, learning opportunities and sustainable livelihoods.

While officiating at the certification ceremony, the Chief Administrative Officer of Kazo district, Hajji Badru Mayanja Majwala, applauded UCC and its partners for skilling the youth. He encouraged participants to use their newly acquired digital skills to generate income, stressing that technology continues to drive development globally. He also cautioned youth and public servants against the misuse of social media, noting that responsible online conduct is vital, especially for government officials.
The Assistant Resident District Commissioner, Mushabe Gershom, also commended UCC and Goldserve for their contribution towards youth empowerment in Kazo. He encouraged trainees to pass on the knowledge to others and warned against excessive use of social media citing its role in family breakdowns. Gershom further urged the youth to apply their skills responsibly and avoid political misuse, especially in the current election period.

UCC Regional Manager for Southwestern Uganda, Jude Mulindwa, used the platform to explain the role of the Commission and the importance of responsible communication. He encouraged young people to create valuable and marketable online content, citing examples of successful digital creators earning through online platforms.