Stanbic Bank Uganda has launched the 11th edition of the National Schools Championship (NSC), a flagship programme aimed at equipping young people with practical skills in innovation, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy to tackle unemployment.
The initiative, unveiled on Monday in Kampala, forms part of the bank’s corporate social investment strategy and coincides with its 35 years of operations in Uganda.
This year’s competition is expected to draw participation from hundreds of secondary and vocational institutions, following nearly 1,000 applications — an indicator of growing interest among learners in enterprise and innovation.
Speaking at the launch, Tunde Thorpe, Executive Head for Business and Commercial Banking at Stanbic, said the championship is designed to shift the mindset of young people from job seeking to job creation.
“Uganda’s future lies in empowering young people to become innovators and entrepreneurs. Through this programme, we are equipping learners with the skills and confidence to create solutions, build enterprises, and drive economic growth,” Thorpe said.
He added that the initiative aligns with the bank’s purpose — “Uganda is our home we drive her growth” — and its Positive Impact agenda, which prioritises enterprise development, job creation, and inclusive economic participation, especially for youth, women, and underserved communities.
The 2026 edition runs under the theme “Powering Innovation for Job Creation” and is part of broader efforts by the bank to support local enterprise development, with up to Shs1 trillion earmarked for business growth and socio-economic transformation.
Focus on future-ready skills
The championship is structured to provide hands-on learning through teacher training, student innovation toolkits, mentorship sessions, and a residential boot camp for top participants.
Allen Kagina, Chairperson of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council, underscored the importance of such initiatives in addressing unemployment.
“Skills are the currency of the future. Programmes like this are essential in preparing young people to participate productively in the economy,” Kagina said.
Similarly, Juliet Muzoora Atuhairwe, Commissioner for Secondary Education, noted that the programme complements government efforts to promote competence-based learning.
“This programme gives learners an opportunity to apply knowledge, innovate, and develop solutions that are relevant to their communities and the country’s development,” she said.
Expanding impact nationwide
Since its inception, the National Schools Championship has reached nearly one million learners, supported the creation of over 200 student-led enterprises, and engaged more than 500 schools across the country.
Stanbic Bank’s Corporate Social Investment Manager, Diana Ondoga, said the initiative remains central to the bank’s commitment to education and youth empowerment.
“We are investing in the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators. Beyond competition, this platform nurtures ideas, builds confidence, and equips young people with skills to succeed,” Ondoga said.
She added that about 70 percent of the bank’s corporate social investment is directed toward education, reflecting a long-term commitment to human capital development.
This year’s competition will involve learners from at least 200 schools, with top innovators progressing to a national boot camp scheduled for May at Gayaza High School.
Ondoga encouraged participants to maximise the opportunity, urging them to think boldly and develop solutions capable of transforming their communities.
“Think boldly, innovate fearlessly, and develop solutions that can transform your communities and create jobs,” she said.
