By Kabuye Ronald
The United Nations Association of Uganda (UNAU) has launched an innovative campaign to accelerate the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by engaging secondary school students in solution-based projects using local resources.
At an event hosted at Caltec Academy Makerere, six schools, Caltec Academy, St. Margaret’s College Makerere, Katwe Noor Secondary School, Apass Secondary School, Namungoona Parents Secondary School, and Kasubi Secondary School gathered to showcase their community driven initiatives aligned with key SDGs.
Linda Asaba, UNAU’s Programs Manager and Project Coordinator for the Accelerate SDGs initiative in Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, emphasized the critical role of youth in solving community challenges.
“The project, which we are running in partnership with the United Nations Association of Finland, aims to leave no one behind. Uganda has one of the youngest populations globally, and we believe young people must be actively involved in addressing SDG-related challenges within their own communities,” Asaba said. “This initiative focuses on SDG 3 – Good Health and Wellbeing, and SDG 13 – Climate Action. By encouraging students to use local resources, we empower them to be part of the solution.”
Asaba noted that integrating community problem-solving into the curriculum aligns with the new education framework, helping students achieve academic excellence while developing practical, real-world skills.
Students showcased a range of projects during the event, including WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) initiatives, skits and drama on mental health awareness, and innovative waste management solutions.
Several students called on their peers to actively participate in similar projects and to speak out about challenges they face, underlining the importance of youth-led action in creating sustainable change.
