Ober, Kampala — Parents have begun returning their children to Future Prospects Technical Institute in Ober, Kampala, following a strong appeal from the institute's Director, Mr. Ogwang Geoffrey, who has urged families to embrace vocational education as a pathway to lifelong employment and self-reliance.
Speaking to this reporter at the institute's campus in Ober, Kampala, Director Ogwang Geoffrey confirmed that parents are responding positively to the call, with many bringing their children back to school as the current term enters its final one and a half months.
"We are happy to see parents bringing their children back. This shows that they now understand the value of vocational training. A skill is a lifetime job — it never expires," Ogwang said.
Director Ogwang Geoffrey, however, made a passionate appeal to school leaders and administrators to allow parents to pay half of the school fees, noting that the economic situation has become difficult for many families.
"I kindly request school leaders to allow parents to pay half fees. Things are not okay. Many families are struggling. If we insist on full payment, we shall lock out children who need these skills the most. Let us be flexible and save the future of these young people," he said.
He emphasized that the remaining one and a half months of the term are critical for students to complete their practical assessments and theoretical training.
Future Prospects Technical Institute offers a wide range of hands-on vocational courses designed to equip students with marketable skills. These include:
· Plumbing
· Electrical Installation
· Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
· Motor Vehicle Mechanics
· Tailoring and Garment Design
· Painting and Decoration
· Welding and Fabrication
· Computer Studies and ICT
"Our courses are practical and directly linked to the job market. Whether it is plumbing, electrical, welding, tailoring, motor vehicle mechanics, air conditioning, painting and decoration, or computer studies — every student who joins us leaves with a skill they can use to earn a living immediately," Ogwang explained.
The Director urged parents to bring their children to Future Prospects Technical Institute, describing vocational education as a "lifetime job" that guarantees income and independence.
"Academic papers alone are not enough today. We urge parents to bring their children for vocational training because it is a lifetime job. A plumber, an electrician, a welder, a tailor, a mechanic — these are people who never lack work. Even in a tough economy, skilled hands are always needed," he said.
He added that the institute is committed to producing graduates who can create jobs rather than wait for jobs.
"We are not just training students; we are training job creators. Our goal is to see every graduate of Future Prospects Technical Institute become an employer or a self-employed professional," Ogwang stated.
Director Ogwang Geoffrey concluded with a direct appeal:
"I call upon all parents in Ober, Kampala, and beyond to bring their children to Future Prospects Technical Institute. The remaining one and a half months are enough to make a difference. Let us work together to secure the future of our children through skills, not just certificates."
