MTN Foundation celebrates graduation of 70 youths in computer applications

MTN Uganda’s Corporate Social Responsibility arm, MTN Foundation has today celebrated the graduation of 70 talented individuals in Computer Applications under the esteemed MTN Girls in Tech program.

The graduation ceremony took place at the state-of-the-art MTN Girls with Tools Skilling Centre in Kitetika, Gayaza Road, Wakiso District – slightly over 20 kilometers out of Kampala city centre.

The MTN Girls in Tech program, a vital initiative within MTN Foundation’s broader commitment, seeks to train 400 youths in fields traditionally dominated by men.

This graduation, occurring as MTN Uganda commemorates its 25th anniversary of community transformation, is a commendable step in breaking gender barriers and promoting inclusivity in technology-related disciplines.

MTN Foundation’s enduring partnership with the Smart Girls Foundation, initiated during the Y’ello Care program in June 2019, has yielded remarkable progress.

The Foundation’s unwavering support facilitated the establishment of a cutting-edge facility valued at Ugx300 million, dedicated to training youths, particularly girls, on an annual basis.

The fully equipped facility features a modern computer laboratory, a vehicle servicing station, and a washing bay, showcasing MTN’s commitment to providing practical skills training for women and girls.

The comprehensive training covers a range of skills, including servicing and washing bays, computer applications, electricity installation, welding, carpentry, tailoring, and house painting.

Enid Edroma, the General Manager, Corporate Services at MTN Uganda, congratulated the graduands for their dedication and successful completion of the training.

“The hands-on experience you’ve gained is invaluable in understanding the dynamics of building businesses and creating employment opportunities. These skills empower you to compete equally with your male counterparts for opportunities that were historically preserved for men,” she said.

Smart Girls Foundation Founder and CEO, Jamila Mayanja, applauded MTN Uganda for the transformative support, stating, “Our partnership with MTN has helped us create a new breed of girls who are respected in our communities.”

Graduates expressed their newfound skills in computer applications, highlighting the impact of the training.

Rita Nabacwa mentioned, “I thought computers were only for people in offices. I did not know that a girl who is at home can use a computer to design websites, cards, and other works. Thank you, MTN Foundation and Smart Girls Foundation, for training us.”

Sharifah Nambubiru shared, “I thought a computer was a bomb that would explode, but coming here today is a great testimony that I can confidently type anything on a computer.”