Presidential industrial hub beneficiaries urged to become agents of change

15 November 2025, 11:47 am

By Okwong Geoffery

Beneficiaries of the Presidential Industrial Hub in Pader District have been encouraged to act as agents of change among the youths in their respective communities.
Speaking during a meeting organized for the trainees at the district headquarters on Friday, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Robert Komakech Obina, appealed to the beneficiaries to guide their peers away from destructive behaviors and inspire them toward productive living.
Obina applauded the youths for persevering through the training, emphasizing the importance of unity if they are to succeed. He urged the group’s leadership to prioritize teamwork and cohesion, especially in upcoming meetings.

He further expressed gratitude to the President for supporting the youths not only with technical and vocational training but also with UGX 50 million in seed capital, meant to help the graduates start income-generating activities. Obina revealed that the funds have already been deposited in Pride Bank, Pader branch, and will be used to support and promote the skills acquired by the trainees.

DISO raises concern over lack of national IDs
The District Internal Security Officer (DISO), Kennedy Ojera, also addressed the graduates, expressing concern that many of them do not possess national identification cards—one of the requirements for SACCO membership.
Ojera advised the beneficiaries to use the seed capital prudently for their personal and financial growth. He noted that the President’s gesture is a sign of commitment to ensuring that trainees are empowered with a start-up boost after completing their six-month courses.

He emphasized that whatever the group earns through their SACCO must be carefully managed to enable long-term financial stability.

Beneficiary shares her journey and hopes
One of the beneficiaries, Catherine Ajok, a 21-year-old primary seven dropout and orphan, shared her story of lost hope and renewed opportunity. Ajok said she had always wished to continue with secondary education but was unable to do so following the death of her parents.
She expressed gratitude for being selected for the tailoring course at the hub, saying she never expected such an opportunity to come her way. Ajok added that the skills and support she has received will help her sustain herself even in the future.

“When I eventually get a partner, I won’t depend entirely on him—this training will help me provide for myself,” she said confidently.
Ajok thanked the President for supporting orphans and other vulnerable youths across Pader District.

Graduates guided to open PAL Bank accounts
The meeting also served to inform the graduates about the released SACCO funds and to guide them in opening accounts with PAL Bank (formerly Post Bank) for easier access to the money.
The beneficiaries, who underwent training in four intakes, completed courses in Hairdressing, Tailoring, Carpentry and Joinery, Baking, Welding, Bricklaying, and Concrete Practice over a six-month period, receiving certificates upon graduation.