JINJA, UGANDA – Vice President Jessica Alupo has called on Uganda’s youth to live responsibly, embrace education, and actively take part in building the nation’s future.
Her message was delivered on her behalf by Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works and Transport, during the 2025 Busoga Diocesan Youth Day celebrations held on Saturday at Christ’s Cathedral, Bugembe, in Jinja City.
“The government is committed to supporting the youth through education, skills development, and financial empowerment programs aimed at improving livelihoods,” Alupo stated in her message.
Vice President Alupo acknowledged Uganda’s youthful population as a powerful resource for national development. She referenced the latest national census data, which shows that more than 75% of the population is under 30.
Alupo noted the persistent challenges facing young people—especially in regions like Busoga—such as high school dropout rates, limited access to jobs, and lack of skills training. However, she emphasized that the government is increasing investment in:
Education in rural areas
Promotion of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
Vocational training programs
Entrepreneurship support and start-up funds
To further support the region’s youth, Alupo announced a UGX 10 million (approx. $2,700) donation towards the construction of a vocational training institute in Busoga Diocese.
She also promised to escalate youth concerns from the Diocese directly to the Office of the President for consideration.
During the event, the Bishop of Busoga Diocese, Rt. Rev. Paul Moses Samson Naimanhye, preached a sermon based on Ecclesiastes 12:1, urging young people to:
Remember and honor God in their youth
Stay pure and avoid immoral behavior
Resist peer pressure and harmful influences
The bishop, who is set to retire in December 2025, was honored by the youth with gifts of appreciation for his dedicated service and inspirational leadership.
The Youth Day celebration attracted:
Clergy and deacons
Government officials
Youth representatives from across Busoga and neighboring regions
It served as a reminder of the central role youth play in shaping the social, spiritual, and economic future of Uganda.
“We must prepare our young people to become job creators, not just job seekers,” – Gen. Katumba Wamala
“Every young person has potential. With the right skills and mindset, they can be agents of change in their communities,” – Vice President Alupo (via statement)
The 2025 Busoga Diocesan Youth Day was not just a celebration—it was a platform to challenge, encourage, and empower the youth of Uganda. With government backing and community support, young Ugandans have a chance to become key players in the country’s development journey.
