LIRA CITY, UGANDA – In a landmark move aimed at democratizing access to tertiary education in the Lango sub-region, Makerere Business Training Centre is set to open its doors at Ojwina Primary School, offering highly subsidized certificate and diploma programs designed to lift the financial burden off struggling families.
The initiative, spearheaded by Professor Jonathan Ochono Odwee, comes as a beacon of hope for thousands of young people and working adults in Lira and surrounding districts who have long been locked out of higher education due to prohibitive costs.
Speaking during the announcement, Professor Ochono confirmed that the training centre will officially begin operations at the Ojwina Primary School premises, strategically located to serve the local community. The institution will offer a wide range of programs tailored to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in both the public and private sectors.
In a deliberate effort to make education accessible, the centre has unveiled a fee structure that is significantly lower than what is commonly charged by similar institutions across the country.
· Certificate Courses: 400,000 shillings per semester
· Diploma Courses: 500,000 shillings per semester
· Medical Records, Environmental Health Sciences, and Public Health: 600,000 shillings per semester
According to Professor Ochono, the decision to keep fees affordable was motivated by a deep concern for the people of Lango, many of whom have been unable to pursue further studies due to financial constraints.
"Our mission is simple—to help the people of Lango who have not been studying due to lack of money to study cheaply," said Professor Ochono. "We believe that no one should be denied the right to quality education simply because they cannot afford exorbitant fees. This centre is our contribution to empowering this community."
While the fees are affordable, Professor Ochono was quick to assure the public that the quality of education would not be compromised. The training centre has assembled a team of professional lecturers who are not only highly knowledgeable but also experienced in their respective fields.
"We have professional lecturers who have knowledge and know exactly what to do," he emphasized. "Our students will receive the same quality of training that is offered elsewhere, but at a fraction of the cost."
The centre will offer programs in business, health sciences, and other critical areas, equipping learners with practical skills that are immediately applicable in the job market.
The establishment of the Makerere Business Training Centre in Lira is expected to have a transformative impact on the region, creating opportunities for school leavers, civil servants seeking to upgrade their skills, and entrepreneurs looking to formalize their knowledge.
Community leaders and residents have already welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that will address the skills gap and reduce the number of young people idling due to lack of educational opportunities.
Prospective students are encouraged to visit Ojwina Primary School for registration and further inquiries.
