KAMPALA, Uganda – KCB Foundation, the corporate social investment arm of KCB Bank Uganda, on Saturday held a graduation ceremony in Kampala for 58 youths from the Central Region who completed vocational training under the 2024 Twekozese Programme. The event took place at Lugogo Vocational Training Institute (VTI), a partner of the foundation.
The graduation is part of KCB Foundation’s broader initiative to promote self-employment, skills development, and job creation among youth and women across Uganda. The Twekozese Skilling Class of 2024, launched in June 2024 and funded by KCB Bank Uganda, is implemented through six partner institutions nationwide.
Of the graduates honored, 28 received training in Domestic Electrical Installation with Solar Systems at Lugogo VTI, and 30 studied Hair and Beauty at Zziwa Hair Academy in Nansana. These graduates join 225 others across Uganda who have completed the 2024 Twekozese program.
Speaking at the event, Stephen Kibuuka, representing KCB Bank Uganda, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to empowering underserved communities through education, sustainability, and enterprise development. “We believe that vocational training is a critical tool in combating youth unemployment and driving sustainable economic development,” Kibuuka said.
Tumuhamye Wilson, Head of Lugogo Vocational Training Institute, praised the partnership and the program’s positive impact. “KCB Foundation’s support has been transformative. These graduates are not just walking away with certificates, they are walking into the future with real, employable skills,” Wilson said.
Gloria Musiime, Principal of Zziwa Hair Academy, encouraged the graduates to become job creators. “Thank you for your great resilience and love to study. Go out and become job creators and not job seekers,” Musiime said.
Graduate Kazibwe Shaban, who trained in hairdressing, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying, “Having a skill that allows me to earn a living and envision starting my own business was something I never thought possible.”
Graduation ceremonies have also been held in other regions of Uganda at partner institutions including Nyamitanga Technical Institute, Nile Vocational Institute in Njeru, Daniel Comboni Vocational Institute in Gulu, and St. Joseph Vocational Training Institute in Hoima. The program offers training in trades such as Hair Beauty, Fashion Design, Carpentry, Welding and Fabrication, and Domestic Electrical Installation with Solar.
Kibuuka noted that students received hands-on instruction, internships, and mentorship to equip them with practical skills for the job market.
