In a significant step towards youth empowerment and practical transformation, Kidega Ogenrwot Moses joined the National Youth Council of Uganda in a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation exercise of Government youth skilling hubs across Uganda.

The exercise, which formed partof Phase II of the NYC’s Strategic Work Plan, covered skilling centers established under the NRM Government initiative and aimed to assess their impact, effectiveness, and sustainability.

The visits extended across several sub-regions, including Acholi, Lango, West Nile, and Karamoja. At each stop from Kigowa to Kitgum, Arua, Gulu, Lira, and Kotido  Kidega and the NYC team met with enthusiastic and dedicated young people receiving hands-on training in areas such as:

• Baking and confectionery

• Tailoring and fashion

• Welding and metalwork

• Agribusiness

• ICT and computer skills among others

These centers were found to be more than just training facilities –  they were safe spaces where hope is nurtured and skills are born.

“These young people only need an opportunity to make their future a possibility. Let’s keep supporting them,” Kidega urged during the visit.

At some of the centers, Kidega participated in graduation ceremonies where young people completed six months of vocational training. These were moments of pride and purpose, as young men and women walked away with not just skillsbut with renewed belief in their ability to shape their own destinies.

“The National Youth Council continues to pledge support to meaningful and competitive skilling of young people,” he noted.

The interaction with graduates reaffirmed the importance of these initiatives and the need to connect training with real-world opportunities — including access to financing, mentorship, and markets.

He also observed challenges faced by some of the skilling hubs, including limited equipment, resource constraints, and infrastructural gaps. Despite these setbacks, the centers were making a clear and visible difference in the lives of youth, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.

“These youth work hard, with the hope that tomorrow shall be better,” Kidega reflected after touring several centers.

Kidega Ogenrwot Moses’ leadership approach is one rooted in action, direct community engagement, active listening, and practical support.