We educate and train children to become employable young people with real work prospects, to support both themselves and their families. Often the best route is training at a local vocational college.

75% of the Ugandan population is under 30 years old and there is a huge youth unemployment problem. The culture has been to push children to O-levels, A-levels and even university, but many graduates struggle for years to find employment and often end up running businesses that have nothing to do with their qualifications. For children who are academically bright, we continue to encourage them into secondary education, so that they can do degrees/ professional training in their chosen career such as teaching, law, medicine and engineering. But for those who would struggle, it is better for them and their families to choose the quickest route into employment.

How does it work?

Children with lower academic ability are encouraged to branch straight into vocational training after their primary education (around age 14). After two years they are then ready (around age 16) to go into work and start earning money. 

Egessa was at the bottom of his class. He was not going to manage O-levels and went straight into carpentry training. After two years he gained an internship at a local workshop and because of the character-building Child of Hope had invested in him, his new employers really appreciated his commitment, his faithfulness, and his integrity. They offered him employment during his college holidays and with the money he was paid he was able to help his mum pay the rent and to buy food for the family. Children like Egressa who opt for vocational training have increased self-worth and esteem as they can see they are no longer at the bottom of the class.

Courses range from vehicle mechanics, hairdressing, catering, plumbing to tailoring and dressmaking. We continue to monitor their progress and our social workers visit them in their colleges on a weekly basis to make sure they are attending classes and that their tutors are happy with their progress. We also ensure that they receive medical care and that their meals at college are paid for or they come back to our school for lunch. 

How can I help?

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