The Industrial Court of Uganda has reaffirmed its central role in advancing youth employment and safeguarding decent work during the 4th Annual National Labour Convention and Expo held at Kampala Serena Hotel.
The two-day convention, held under the theme “Unlocking the Potential of Uganda’s Youth Labour Force,” was officially opened by Vice President Jessica Alupo, representing President Yoweri Museveni. It brought together key stakeholders to explore strategies for transforming Uganda’s youthful population into a productive workforce.
Among the participants were Lady Justice Linda Lillian Tumusiime Mugisha and Justice Anthony Wabwire Musana.
Presenting at the convention, Acting Registrar HW Dr. Daniel Lubowa positioned the Court as a critical institutional anchor ensuring that employment opportunities are protected by the rule of law.
He emphasized that while discussions on youth employment often focus on job creation, sustainable progress must be grounded in legal protection and fairness.
“Decent work goes beyond job creation. It requires protected employer-employee relationships,” Lubowa noted, highlighting the Court’s role in resolving disputes such as unfair dismissal, breach of contract, and workplace safety.
He added that national productivity depends heavily on industrial peace, which the Court sustains through timely and specialized dispute resolution. A predictable legal system, he said, reduces workplace disruptions and encourages young people to pursue long-term careers and innovation.
Deliberations at the convention also focused on bridging skills gaps, aligning Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) with labour market needs, supporting small and medium enterprises, and formalizing youth employment.
Lubowa further pointed to the evolving nature of work, noting a rise in gig economy roles, digital platforms, and short-term consultancies among young Ugandans. He said the Court is adapting by interpreting labour laws to remain relevant to these emerging work arrangements.
Participants underscored the importance of institutional trust, noting that without fair and timely dispute resolution, many young workers may remain in informal or precarious employment.
To address emerging challenges, the Court announced plans to introduce a fast-track docket for cases involving young workers aged 18 to 30, develop simplified legal guides for gig and internship roles, and convene quarterly engagements between employers, youth, and the Court.
With youth expected to dominate future labour disputes, Lubowa said the Court is evolving beyond traditional dispute resolution to actively shape a fair, inclusive, and predictable labour market.
