The symposium supported by the United Nations Population Fund that took place on 17th December 2018 at Serena hotel was called to highlight how to harness youth energy for economic development.
The State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs; Hon Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi explained that the school curriculum is old to reflect the skills required in today’s job market and government is making a review
“They are not just for our future, they are present and must ensure they prioritize their needs while learning from ideas and experience,” she said
The Executive Director of National Planning Authority, Dr Joseph Muvawala saidUganda will not achieve the demographic dividend unless we continue investing in the youth.
“That opportunity in the youth population must be harnessed and invested if we are to achieve what we call the demographic dividend,” he said
The Uganda scout patron Dr Maggie Kigozi called for more active mentorship programs to help the youth realize their potential.
According to the Vice Chancellor of Kampala International University, Dr Mohammod Ampezamihigo, the biggest problem is the failure by government to harness enormous energy generated by youths who are unable to get gainful employment despite possessing skills.
Currently, over 700,000 people for the job market are released by universities; 90,000 of these get something to do and 610,000 which is 87% are jobless.