By Alfred Ntagungira
St. Joseph Vocational Training Centre (VTC) in Kamuli, Uganda, marked a significant milestone on 14th June 2024 with the graduation of more than 500 students from various technical, vocational, and business courses.
The ceremony was graced by the Papal Nuncio to Uganda, H.E Luigi Bianco and the Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Hon. Balaam Barugahara.
The joy and excitement were palpable as the graduands, accompanied by their families and friends, gathered at the campus to receive their National certificates awarded by UBTEB and Competence based certificates awarded by DIT. The occasion was a testament to the centre's commitment to providing quality education and training to equip young minds with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their chosen careers.
In his keynote address, Hon. Balaam Barugahara congratulated the graduands on their achievement, emphasizing the importance of technical and vocational education in bridging the gap of unemployment. He asked the graduands to utilize the opportunities government has put in place for capital such as PDM, Youth livelihood funds, and Uganda development bank (UDB). "As we celebrate your graduation today, we recognize the crucial role you are about to play in shaping the future of our country," he said. "We urge you to use your skills and knowledge to contribute positively to national development."
H.E Luigi Bianco, the Papal Nuncio to Uganda, who was the main celebrant in the Holy sacrifice of mass that preceded the awarding of Certificates, also congratulated the graduands, highlighting the importance of education in promoting peace, unity, and development. "Education is a powerful tool that can bring people together and foster understanding," he said. "As you go out into the world, remember that your education is not only about acquiring knowledge and skills but also about building bridges of understanding and respect."
The Principal Fr Nguyen van Gia Cat Joseph thanked the graduands for successfully completing their courses, and for exhibiting discipline throughout. He asked them to be excellent workers which is what represents the true spirit of St Joseph and Don Bosco.
The graduands received Certificates in Building construction, Electrical installation, Plumbing, Automotive Mechanics, Fashion & Garment design, Agriculture, Cosmetology and beauty therapy, Catering, Welding, Solar installation, Carpentry, and Business accounting from the years 2022 and 2023.
The ceremony was also attended by officials from UBTEB, DIT, representatives from various organizations,
Salesians from Bombo & Namugongo, instructors, priests, sisters, and well-wishers.
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