On 26th June, Masaka Vocational Training Institute (MVTI) proudly marked a historic milestone with its first graduation ceremony, celebrating the achievements of 128 learners who successfully completed their training programmes. Of these graduates, 125 were beneficiaries of the Agribusiness Project supported by the International Labour Organization (ILO), an initiative aimed at equipping young people with practical skills and opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.
The graduation ceremony brought together graduates, parents, community leaders, partners, and friends of the institution to celebrate the learners’ dedication and hard work. For many of the graduates, particularly those from Kalungu District who participated in the ILO-supported programme, the training represented a transformative journey. Many enrolled with limited access to formal education and have now graduated with practical agribusiness skills that can enable them to improve their incomes and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
The chief guest, Mr Akansiima Benedict, the national coordinator of the Ending Child Labour in Supply Chains (CLEAR Supply Chains) Project: Addressing the Root causes of child labour in supply chains through an area-based approach Project, shared that equipping young people in agribusiness is in response to addressing the root causes of child labour, and the coffee farming and value chain present the opportunity to create decent work opportunities for youth to supplement their incomes. He urged the graduates to utilize the skills gained to create income sources for themselves.
In his address, the Director of MVTI, Francis Kamulegeya, reaffirmed the strong partnership between the institute and Masaka Diocese, highlighting its importance in ensuring the institution’s growth, sustainability, and long-term success. He emphasized that MVTI is committed to providing quality vocational training rooted in a strong Catholic foundation that nurtures both academic excellence and moral character.
The Director also introduced the newly established MVTI Board of Governance, comprising seven members drawn from Masaka Diocese and the institution’s management. The Board will provide strategic leadership and oversight to guide the institute’s development and ensure that it continues to respond effectively to the skills needs of learners and communities.
While congratulating the graduates, Mr Kamulegeya Francis encouraged them to remain committed to lifelong learning and to make use of the opportunities available through the institute. He highlighted initiatives such as the half-bursary scheme for learners with disabilities and the progression pathway that enables beneficiaries of the ILO-supported Agribusiness Project to further upgrade their education and skills.
The graduation ceremony also reflected MVTI’s broader commitment to empowering young people through practical and market-relevant skills training. Through partnerships with development organizations, government institutions, and the private sector, the institute continues to create opportunities that enable learners to transition successfully into employment, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance.
As MVTI celebrates this historic first graduation, the institution remains committed to expanding access to quality vocational education and training, empowering more young people with the skills, knowledge, and values needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.
We congratulate all the graduates on this remarkable achievement and wish them every success as they begin the next chapter of their educational, professional, and entrepreneurial journeys.
