Col. Nakalema Calls on Academicians to Address Uganda’s Youth Unemployment Crisis

Col. Edith Nakalema, Head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), has urged academicians to collaborate in addressing Uganda’s growing youth unemployment crisis. She emphasized that the issue is worsened by corruption and limited access to policymakers, calling for both immediate and long-term solutions.

Speaking during a meeting with academics and other leaders on September 18, 2024, Col. Nakalema highlighted that youth (ages 0-35) make up 82% of Uganda’s population, per the 2024 preliminary census results. She acknowledged the valid concerns of young people, stressing that their majority status gives them a significant stake in the country’s future.

The meeting, held at SHIPU’s Kampala office, aimed to explore solutions to youth unemployment, a persistent challenge. Among the attendees were Kyambogo University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Elly Katunguka, Uganda Management Institute (UMI) Director General Dr. James Nkata, UMI Dean of School of Management Science Prof. Gerald Kagambirwe Karyeija, and Hon. Fred Ruhindi, SHIPU’s Pro Bono Legal Advisor.

Col. Nakalema noted that factors like inadequate access to quality education and training, a skills mismatch, and the dominance of the informal sector contribute to youth unemployment. She acknowledged that while the government has introduced programs like the Youth Livelihood Program (YLP), Skilling Uganda, and the Uganda Youth Venture Capital Fund (UYVCF), the unemployment issue remains a serious concern.

Col. Nakalema stressed that the problem needs academic and research-based solutions. The meeting also focused on strategies to enhance job creation, improve the capacity of educational institutions, and align youth competencies with market demands.

Among the proposals presented to the government are tax waivers for youth startups and the establishment of entrepreneurial skill centers at universities to equip graduates with practical skills for income generation. Prof. Katunguka highlighted the importance of enhancing entrepreneurship training, while Dr. Nkata called for a national employment policy to address the broader employment landscape.

Col. Nakalema concluded by noting that President Museveni is set to meet youth leaders in October to discuss the proposals and explore ways to create an environment where young people can contribute to economic growth.