Wakiso, Uganda-13 March 2025. When Janat Nalwoga completed her Senior Four exams in 2022, she faced an uncertain future. With her father unable to work due to deteriorating eyesight, continuing her education seemed like an impossible dream.
But then, an opportunity arose—an opportunity that changed her life. She enrolled at Smart Girls Foundation Uganda and pursued a certificate in Electrical Engineering. Today, Janat is not just a graduate; she is a technician at Ebee Mobility Uganda, assembling and repairing electric bikes. Her story is one of resilience, transformation, and the power of opportunity.
Janat is not alone. Today, MTN Uganda’s Corporate Social Responsibility arm, MTN Foundation, in partnership with Smart Girls Foundation, proudly celebrates the graduation of 250 young women from the MTN Girls in Tech program and 33 youth in the MTN Girls with Tools initiative, equipping them with valuable skills in Computer Applications User Occupation, mechanics, and electrical engineering. These graduates join a growing community of over 850 youth who have been trained in digital and technical skills, positioning them to thrive in Uganda’s evolving economy.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, MTN Uganda Chief Executive Officer, Sylvia Mulinge, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to empowering the next generation through its Ambition 2025 Strategy, which focuses on accelerating digital inclusion and skills development.
“Our investment in youth skills training is not just about numbers; it’s about transforming lives,” Mulineg said.
“We are witnessing young women and men breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and stepping into careers that were once considered out of reach. This is the future we are building together.”
Mulinge reaffirmed the company’s commitment to empowering young women through skills training, bridging the gender gap in technology and vocational careers as a concrete step toward accelerating gender equality.
According to the 2024 National Population Census, Uganda’s youth make up over 70% of the population, yet many struggle with unemployment and limited access to quality education. The challenge is particularly pronounced among young women, who often face barriers in acquiring digital skills.
Through initiatives like MTN Girls in Tech and MTN Girls with Tools, MTN Uganda is bridging this gap, ensuring that young people are not only consumers of technology but also its creators, innovators, and leaders.
The impact of these programs is already evident. Halimah Nairah Nanyange, a graduate of electrical installation, leveraged her training at Smart Girls Foundation to establish Nairah Solar Energies, a company specializing in solar installation, maintenance, and the sale of solar appliances. From working in a struggling business with her grandmother, Halimah has now created employment opportunities for herself and others.
“This training gave me the confidence to follow my dreams and pursue a career that once seemed unattainable. I now have the skills to not only support my family but also to build a business that is contributing to the community. The possibilities are endless, and it all started with the opportunity that MTN Uganda provided,” Nanyange said.
MTN Uganda’s collaboration with Smart Girls Foundation dates back to June 2019, during the 21 Days of Y’ello Care initiative. What started as support for just 30 girls in mechanical training has now expanded into a state-of-the-art vocational training facility, capable of training 400 girls annually.
The facility offers courses in mechanics, electrical installation, welding, carpentry, tailoring, computer applications, and house painting, targeting school dropouts, teenage mothers, orphans, and vulnerable youth.
“Education and skills training are the foundation for a self-sustaining future,” said Jamila Mayanja, Founder of Smart Girls Foundation.
“With support from MTN Uganda, we have been able to scale up our programs, provide a safe and supportive environment, and equip young women with skills that open doors to employment and entrepreneurship.”
MTN Uganda continues to call on stakeholders—including more government agencies, private sector partners, and community organizations—to join hands in expanding opportunities for the youth. By investing in training programs, ensuring affordability of digital tools, and fostering an inclusive learning environment, Uganda can unlock its full potential in the digital age.
Promt: Rewrite this press release retaining its flow and everything but align with the fact that the graduation is happening during the women’s month, stressing the message of “Accelerating Action for Gender Equality,” as per this’s year international women’s day theme.
