By Victor Turinawe
A total of 100 students were awarded certificates as they completed various skills training programmes organised by the 28th Guild Government at Uganda Christian University (UCU).
The award ceremony took place on 6th June at Nkoyoyo Hall on the campus. Participants who completed training in various disciplines and who submitted reports were awarded certificates. The skills included digital marketing, content creation, photography and videography, basics of artificial intelligence, bakery, hairdressing, soap making, yoghurt making, smart agriculture, knitting and craft making, string artistry, painting, and canvas making.
The training ran for four consecutive Saturdays, with a total of 130 students participating. The rest of the 30 participants will receive their certificates after submitting their reports.
The Acting Director of Students’ Affairs (DOSA) at the university, Ms Enid Mugarura, encouraged students who participated in the programme to nurture and utilise their talents as a pathway to economic empowerment and personal growth. She also expressed gratitude to the Guild Government, the UCU Business Association, the Directorate of Student Affairs, trainers, and students for making the initiative a success.
“I am in the presence of skills today. Isn’t God awesome? We want to thank God for equipping us with these valuable abilities,” she said.
She further challenged graduates to embrace innovation while appreciating the uniqueness of human creativity in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
“We are entering an era where AI can create music, videos, and many other products. However, human creativity, craftsmanship, and practical skills remain irreplaceable. What you create with your own hands and imagination carries a personal touch that technology cannot fully replicate,” she said.
Godfrey Wamanyi, who focused on the Basics of Artificial Intelligence, Photography and Videography, thanked the organisers for the opportunity.
“As students preparing to return to school, we have gained valuable skills in areas such as designing flyers, creating content, and communication. One of the key lessons I have learned is the importance of using media effectively. For example, we can create videos highlighting activities completed during the week and those planned for the coming weeks. This can help improve communication within our schools and communities,” said Wamanyi.
Joshua Ongia, whose interest was in Bakery, thanked everyone who contributed to the success of the programme. He noted that throughout the training, participants addressed important issues affecting young people, including financial challenges, unemployment, technology, and community development.
“We have learned that success requires creativity, innovation, and a positive mindset. We should not allow challenges to distract us from pursuing our goals. Instead, we should remain focused and determined to create opportunities for ourselves and our communities,” he said.
Speaking to the students and encouraging them to do more after they have received the certificates, Clare Sarah Nakyesa, the President of UCU Business Society, a partner in the programme, urged participants to apply what they had learned.
“As we leave here, our task is not simply to remember what we have learned but to apply it in our daily lives. Knowledge becomes valuable only when it is put into practice. We must take the lessons acquired during this programme and use them to address challenges in our schools, communities, and workplaces,” she said.
The Guild President, Abraham Elomaboni, reminded graduates of the importance of excellence and making the most of every opportunity.
“One lesson that has stayed with me is a simple but powerful piece of advice: whatever opportunity you get, do your very best. Tomorrow is never guaranteed, but the effort and excellence we invest today can shape a better future,” he said.
He added that many students discovered hidden talents during the programme.
“We often underestimate our abilities until we are given an opportunity to learn and grow. Through this programme, many of us have discovered talents, skills, and potential that we did not know we possessed. We have learned that improvement is possible when we are willing to challenge ourselves and embrace new experiences,” he said.
The programme is the first of its kind, and stakeholders say they now plan to hold it at least once every semester.
