By Job Ronny Okot
For decades, technical courses like electrical installation and construction have largely been viewed as male domains. But in Northern Uganda, a new generation of girls is challenging this stereotype, gaining practical skills, professional confidence, and hope for a brighter future through the Gender Matters for Green TVET project.
At Oceco Electrical Services in Gulu City, the sound of tools and clinking wires merges with determination. Among the interns is Bianca Akwero, meticulously attending to electrical installations with focus and skill.
Ms Akwero is gaining hands-on experience through a partnership between Sendea Institute for Energy and Management and Don Bosco Vocational Training Centre under the Green TVET initiative.
Ms Akweo, selected to study electrical installation at Don Bosco Vocational Training Centre in Lamwo District, says the skills she has acquired go beyond wiring houses. “
I have learned business management, decision-making, and problem-solving skills that will uplift both my life and my community,” she says.
Her internship at Oceco allows her to translate classroom knowledge into real-world practice, taking on complex electrical tasks with confidence.
Similarly, Sunday Aparo, 20, refused to accept the notion that electrical work is only for boys. Despite initial resistance—even from her parents—Aparo received a scholarship from Sendea Institute to study at Don Bosco, reigniting her dream of becoming an electrical engineer and proving that gender should not limit ambition.
Christopher Lukwiya, chief executive of Oceco Electrical Services, praises the girls’ talent and dedication, noting that they often perform on par with, or even surpass, their male counterparts.
In Pece Division, students Amono Cinderella (22) and Aromorach are gaining experience at a construction site.
Site manager Eng Amos Obwona commends their hard work, discipline, and eagerness to learn.
Meanwhile, in Kitgum District, Alimocan Winne (21) dreams of starting her own electrical business, and Aneno Gladys (23) joined the course to challenge social norms restricting girls’ choices.
Nicholas James Okech, director of Kitgum Electrical Centre, emphasizes that internships are vital. Beyond practical skills, they provide exposure, professional networks, and confidence.
However, many interns face challenges such as long travel distances, inadequate accommodation, and limited access to tools.
Patrick Odiya of Homie Electrical Centre and Denis Ocaya of Don Bosco Vocational Training Centre urge additional support to ensure these barriers do not discourage more girls from joining technical courses.
The Green TVET project also supports girls in agriculture and livelihoods. Since its launch in 2023, over 200 girls have benefited.
Felista Nessanga, Livelihood and Agriculture Coordinator at Don Bosco, says the initiative has helped shift negative perceptions about agriculture, opening employment opportunities.
One student benefiting is Acayo Lillian, currently completing her internship under Felista’s guidance.
Community perceptions remain a hurdle, with ongoing efforts needed to sensitize parents and local leaders about the value of girls pursuing vocational and technical education.
The girls themselves are becoming advocates, encouraging peers to ignore stereotypes and urging parental support for vocational training as a pathway to sustainable livelihoods.
They express gratitude to Sendea Institute for Energy and Management and its partners, appealing for expanded opportunities to transform lives and reshape the future of Northern Uganda.
