The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Dr Aminah Zawedde, has urged schools across Uganda to prioritise ICT skills training among learners, saying digital literacy is essential for preparing young people to participate in the country’s growing digital economy.
Dr Zawedde said as Uganda works towards achieving its Vision 2040 development goals, access to digital knowledge and skills is no longer optional but a necessity for national development.
She emphasised that Uganda’s youthful population must be equipped with practical ICT competencies to enable them to use digital tools, innovate and benefit from emerging opportunities in technology.
“Young people form the majority of Uganda’s population, and if we are to achieve Vision 2040, they must be equipped with ICT skills that enable them to effectively use digital tools and innovate,” Dr Zawedde said.
She made the remarks while receiving a donation of 100 computers from DFCU Foundation at the ICT Innovation Hub in Nakawa, Kampala. The computers will be distributed to selected schools across the country to support digital learning.
Dr Zawedde said Uganda is implementing the National Roadmap for ICT Integration as part of its wider digital transformation strategy, adding that schools have a critical role in building foundational digital skills among learners.
“We are implementing a national roadmap for ICT integration, and this requires deliberate efforts to ensure learners acquire the necessary knowledge and skills. Schools must take the lead in preparing students for a digital future,” she said.
The donation by DFCU Foundation is part of private sector efforts to increase access to digital learning tools in education institutions.
Mable Ndawula, Head of DFCU Foundation, said the initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and provide learners with access to modern technology.
“We believe that access to digital technology is key in unlocking the potential of young people. This support is part of our continued commitment to advancing ICT integration in schools and empowering the next generation,” Ndawula said.
Helena Mayanja, Head of Corporate Affairs at DFCU Bank, said partnerships between government and the private sector are crucial in accelerating digital transformation and supporting sustainable development.
“As a bank, we recognise the importance of digital transformation in shaping Uganda’s economy. We are proud to partner with stakeholders to ensure that young people are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in a digital world,” Mayanja said.
The government has increasingly promoted private sector partnerships as a way of expanding ICT infrastructure and increasing access to digital skills training.
Officials say such collaborations will help Uganda transition into a knowledge-based economy by promoting innovation, creating employment opportunities and supporting inclusive economic growth.
