The Ministry of ICT and National Guidance is calling on Uganda’s youth to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) training as a crucial step toward securing opportunities in the evolving digital economy.
As AI continues to reshape industries worldwide, the ministry sees up skilling in AI as a key driver of Uganda’s broader digital transformation agenda.
Speaking at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, emphasised the importance of equipping young people with AI skills.
The MWC, one of the world’s most influential technology events, brings together global leaders, telecom giants, and innovators to discuss advancements in AI, 5G, and digital inclusivity.
“We are in the middle of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and AI is at the heart of this transformation,” Dr. Zawedde said. “Young people must take advantage of available opportunities to gain AI skills.
This will not only enhance their employability but also position Uganda as a competitive player in the global digital space.”
Uganda’s participation in the MWC highlights its commitment to digital acceleration, fostering innovation, and attracting investment in ICT development.
AI-powered solutions are already being integrated into key sectors such as agriculture, finance, health, and education, making digital literacy and AI expertise more critical than ever.
To bridge the country’s digital skills gap, the government is implementing several initiatives, including the National ICT Innovation Hub, which provides training and mentorship for tech enthusiasts, and the Uganda Digital Acceleration Program, aimed at integrating digital solutions into various sectors.
“Digital transformation is not just about infrastructure; it is about people,” Dr. Zawedde added. “Our focus is to build a workforce that is skilled, innovative, and ready to take on the challenges and opportunities that come with AI and other emerging technologies.”
However, one major challenge remains—limited internet access due to high data costs. Affordable and widespread internet is essential for AI training and digital skill-building, yet many Ugandans, particularly in rural areas, struggle with expensive data rates that hinder online learning.
For Uganda to fully capitalize on AI and the opportunities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, experts suggest that policymakers must address these barriers by reducing data costs, expanding broadband infrastructure, and ensuring digital skills are accessible to all.
With the right policies in place, Uganda’s young innovators could play a key role in shaping the country’s AI-driven future.