Uganda to teach digital skills in refugee camps
The Ugandan government is preparing to launch digital training programs in refugee camps to help displaced people find better job opportunities.
Officials say the plan is in its final stages and will give refugees the skills they need to earn a living in today’s digital world.
Dr. Irene Nakiyimba, a top official at the Uganda Institute of Communication Technology (UICT), spoke about the program on February 22 at an alumni event in Kampala.
According to her, the training is part of a bigger government project called the Uganda Digital Accelerated Project (UDAP-GovNet).
This project, led by the Ministry of ICT and the National Information Technology Authority (NITA-U), focuses on improving internet access and digital skills for people across Uganda, including refugees.
“The refugee programme is part of the Uganda Digital Accelerated Project (UDAP-GovNet). UICT will implement the capacity-building and skills development component targeting marginalised groups including refugees,” Nakiyimba was quoted by The Monitor.
Uganda is home to over 800,000 refugees and asylum seekers, according to official government data. Many of them struggle to find work or education.
The new project will focus on fixing this by providing internet access, affordable digital tools, and training in 12 districts that host refugees.
Officials say this will help refugees gain financial independence as well as learn how to use computers, the internet, and other digital tools to find work, start businesses, or access government services.
The project is also expected to support Uganda’s broader goal of becoming a digitally advanced country.
Government agencies are working together to expand internet coverage, improve access to mobile devices, and train people in digital skills.
The project also includes financial management and environmental safety measures to ensure its success.
