MVTI was officially opened on 22nd September. The official opening took place at the institute, and the occasion was graced by Owek. Katikiro Charles Peter Mayiga as the chief guest. The occasion brought forth a variety of guests, including religious leaders, political leaders, community members, and representatives from the Ministry of Education and Sports.
The occasion kicked off with a grand tour of the college by the Katikiro and other guests. The director, Mr. Francis Kamulegeya, and the school principal, Mr. Wakhobela Bruno, took the lead in showing the guests around. After the tour, religious leaders from different faiths led the guests in prayer. The LCI chairperson of Bugabira welcomed the guests to Bugabira and expressed appreciation to the director for the great work done in extending educational opportunities to young people.
Director Mr. Francis Kamulegeya also added his voice and thanked the guests for honoring the invitation. In his speech, he noted that his decision to start up Masaka School for the Deaf was triggered by the potential he discovered in deaf individuals who did not have the chance to get educated.
It was upon this backdrop that he decided to extend vocational skills to young people, including those with disabilities, through Masaka Vocational Training Institute. He further appreciated the support of the different sponsors who share the same dream of educating children with disabilities.
Speech by the Katikiro:
Owek Charles Peter Mayiga appreciated the opportunity of being the guest of honor at such an important occasion where the director is giving back to the community. He noted that coming to the institute is beneficial to him as he gets to learn from what other people do. He highlighted that he was impressed by the entire setup of the school and the great work being done by both the trainers and students. He noted that the director is executing exactly what the Kingdom of Buganda wishes to achieve in different communities.
The Kingdom of Buganda aims to equip young people with vocational skills that contribute to and improve their standards of living. The climax of the occasion included the Katikiro cutting the ribbon to signify the official opening of MVTI, and he also planted a memorial tree.