Lira, Uganda – As the demand for employable skills continues to rise across Uganda, Project Hope Worldwide Uganda is stepping in to bridge the gap between formal education and real-world survival. Led by Dennis Emiku, the organization’s team leader, the initiative is providing hands-on training to primary and secondary school learners, preparing them to become self-reliant even before completing school.
Empowering Learners to Face Life After School
Emiku emphasized the importance of equipping students with practical skills that enable them to survive and thrive once they leave the classroom.
“Grown-up children in secondary and primary schools should have skills to survive when they move out from school. Our main focus with hands-on training is to support their learning and help them find ways to make money, feed themselves, and meet their basic needs,” he said.
He noted that many young people leave school without survival skills and are forced to rely on parents or relatives. Project Hope aims to change that reality by offering vocational training in tailoring, mechanics, driving, concrete practice, and bricklaying.
“When someone is stuck, they should be able to work and earn money. During holidays, students can work on construction sites and gain income. We have extended this training to the community as well so that even out-of-school members can learn to survive,” Emiku added.
Real Skills, Real Impact
The program is already changing lives. Joseph Omec, a mechanic instructor, shared that one of his students is now operating an excavator, while two others are driving smaller vehicles.
Catherine Akello, a tailoring instructor, reported that girls who completed her two-month training can now sew garments like skirts and blouses—practical skills that help them earn income immediately.
Lilian Chemayek, Head of the Hands-On Training Department, echoed the importance of the initiative:
“This training is vital in supporting children with self-reliance skills. In most cases, when someone goes out to look for a job, employers ask for additional skills beyond academic certificates.”
A Holistic Approach to Youth Empowerment
Project Hope Worldwide Uganda goes beyond training. It operates a kindergarten, orphanage, primary school, O-Level secondary section, and a hands-on training center, providing a full support system for vulnerable children.
Emiku called on parents across Uganda, especially in Northern Uganda and the Lango sub-region, to support the program:
“Let’s join hands and give these children an opportunity. Formal education is important, but life skills are essential for survival,” he urged.
With youth unemployment still a national concern, Project Hope’s holistic model is offering a beacon of hope—preparing the next generation to face the future with confidence, competence, and independence.
