By Kabuye Ronald
Youth Line Forum says that youth transformation can easily be realized through green skills since they culminate into an integration of sustainability into everyday life, fostering innovation, adaptability, and resilience.
Vivian Tumushabe, Partnerships Associate Youth Line Forum said the positive impact of Youth Line Forum’s initiatives is evident in the lives of the youth it reaches.
“By imparting digital skills, the organization empowers young Ugandans to overcome barriers and pursue education, employment, and entrepreneurial endeavors. This empowerment radiates beyond the individual to community development, as digitally skilled youth become catalysts for local economies and innovation.
As Uganda embraces the digital age, Civil Society organizations like Youth Line Forum take on a paramount role. Armed with digital skills, today’s youth are primed to become tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, and change-makers. By collaborating with stakeholders, scaling their efforts, and staying attuned to technological shifts, Youth Line Forum is laying the groundwork for a future where Ugandan youth lead the digital revolution.” Said Vivian Tumushabe
Every year, on the 12th of August, the global community comes together to commemorate International Youth Day. This year, the festivities in Uganda unfolded in the scenic Kabale District, Uganda as a country has over 75% of the population under the age of 35. This demographic statistic underscores the reality that the youth hold a substantial stake in shaping Uganda’s future trajectory.
This year’s International Youth Day theme: Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World, resonates deeply with the needs of our time. Green skills encompass a broad range of knowledge, abilities, values, and attitudes essential for living sustainably and supporting an efficient society.
Ruth Asiimwe, the Technical Director Youth Line Forum said the impact of green skills is manifold since they serve as a conduit for integrating sustainability into everyday life, fostering innovation, adaptability, and resilience.
“These skills don’t just exist in a vacuum; they have the potential to create job opportunities and build resilient communities capable of withstanding environmental challenges. As the world grapples with climate change and environmental disruptions, professionals armed with green skills are better equipped to design strategies that mitigate and adapt to these impacts.
At the forefront of nurturing green skills among Uganda’s youth is Youth Line Forum. Driven by a youth-led ethos, this organization operates at the intersection of technology, education, and social empowerment. Through innovative programs like the Young Leaders Academy, Youth Line Forum equips young individuals with essential digital skills. From the basics of digital literacy to harnessing digital platforms for entrepreneurship and developing soft skills like communication and critical thinking, the forum acts as a transformative force.” Said Ruth Asiimwe
Teopista Kizza, the Program Manager, Africa Youth Development Link said Digital skilling isn’t just a necessity; it’s a gateway to shaping destinies in an interconnected world.
“The commitment of Africa Youth Development Link and Youth Line Forum exemplifies the power of grassroots initiatives in driving meaningful change. Their efforts bridge the digital divide, foster economic empowerment, and unleash Uganda’s youths full potential. These young individuals are being prepared to thrive in the digital age, making impactful contributions to their communities and the nation as a whole.
As we celebrate Youth Month and witness the transformation driven by organizations like Youth Line Forum, we glimpse a brighter, more empowered future for Uganda’s youth.” Said Teopista Kizza.
The Ugandan government has already taken some progressive steps to invest into youths. The National Youth Policy 2017- 2027 stands as a testament to their commitment, aiming to create an environment that encourages youth participation in the nation’s development. Additionally, various initiatives and programs have been introduced to foster youth entrepreneurship and provide avenues for employment.
