Lira City, Uganda— Over 300 students from Victoria School of Nursing and Midwifery are now better prepared for the workforce after completing a transformative soft skills training program led by Brighter Monday Uganda in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.
The initiative, part of the Mastercard Foundation’s Young Africa Works strategy, addresses a critical need: while technical knowledge is foundational, soft skills like communication, emotional intelligence, and adaptability often determine career success. In Uganda, where youth unemployment remains a challenge, such training bridges the gap between education and employability.
Through interactive workshops, mock interviews, and mentorship sessions, students honed skills in: Leadership & teamwork which is Vital for healthcare settings,Effective communication which is Key for patient care and collaboration.,Problem-solving & resilience to navigate dynamic work environments.
Dr. Isaac Orec, Executive Director of Victoria School, emphasized the program’s value: “Our graduates now enter the job market not just as qualified nurses, but as confident professionals ready to lead and adapt."
Participant Sarah K., a final-year midwifery student, shared: “The mock interviews changed everything,”I learned how to articulate my strengths. Now I feel ready to stand out."
Another student, David M., praised the focus on emotional intelligence:
“Patients need caregivers who listen. This training taught me how to connect beyond textbooks."
Brighter Monday Uganda and the Mastercard Foundation plan to scale the program to other institutions, reinforcing Uganda’s vision of a skilled, competitive workforce. As these 300 graduates transition into careers, their dual mastery of clinical expertise and soft skills positions them to uplift healthcare standards and inspire peers.
“This is how we build a generation that doesn’t just seek jobs but creates impact,"said a Brighter Monday spokesperson
