The Church of Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting youth skills development as a key solution to unemployment and poverty in the country. This was during the 8th Graduation Ceremony of Bbira Vocational Training Institute, where church leaders and education stakeholders praised vocational education for transforming lives and communities. 

The 8th Graduation Ceremony of Bbira Vocational Training Institute was marked by celebration, thanksgiving, and recognition of students who successfully completed diploma and certificate courses in various vocational disciplines.

Since its establishment in 1992, Bbira Vocational Training Institute has trained more than 3,234 students, including orphans and vulnerable children from Northern Uganda, reflecting the Church of Uganda’s commitment to inclusive education and national transformation through skills development, with over 60 per cent of learners supported by friends of the Church of Uganda.

The Chief Guest, the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, said the Church of Uganda remains committed to promoting youth skills development, which inspired the establishment of Bbira Vocational Training Institute in 1992.

The Archbishop noted that as a church-founded institution, Bbira Vocational Training Institute not only equips students with practical skills but also nurtures them in strong moral values and godly character needed to survive in today’s challenging world.

He appreciated teachers, spiritual leaders, and parents for supporting students throughout their academic journey.

The Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, Rt. Rev. Moses Banja praised the remarkable transformation of the institution and thanked Household and Community Transformation partners for supporting the development of the school.

Bishop Banja also thanked parents for trusting the institution with their children.

Meanwhile, the retired Bishop of Mukono Diocese, Rt. Rev. James William Ssebaggala congratulated the graduates upon successfully completing their studies.

The Director of Household and Community Transformation at the Church of Uganda, Rev. Andrew Agaba, noted that the institute has registered significant progress over the years.

Rev. Canon William Ongeng, the Provincial Secretary of the Church of Uganda, said the graduation was not just about awarding certificates and diplomas, but celebrating transformation, discipline, resilience, and hope for the future.

Quoting Ecclesiastes 9:10, he encouraged graduates to use their skills faithfully, excellently, and responsibly.

The Principal of Bbira Vocational Training Institute, Juliet Nakanjako Ngabirano, described the ceremony as a celebration of competence-based education and transformation through vocational training.

The Principal of Bbira Vocational Training Institute

She referenced Proverbs 22:29, emphasising the importance of excellence, diligence, and professionalism in skills development.

The leaders called upon parents and young people to embrace vocational education as a pathway to employment, self-reliance, and national development.

The ceremony commenced with the awarding of certificates and diplomas to outstanding students, as parents, church leaders, and invited guests applauded the graduates for their hard work and resilience.