MTN injects UGX20m into Jinja skills institute
![MTN injects UGX20m into Jinja skills institute](../admin/images/MTN Heta Vocational Ground.jpg)
STATE-OF-THE-ART: A tailoring student tries out a hi-tech sewing machine at the handover of the equipment at the institute in Jinja City over the weekend. COURTESY PHOTO/BUSINESS EDGE
In an ambitious effort to boost vocational training standards in Busoga and beyond, the MTN Foundation, MTN Uganda's philanthropic arm has donated state-of-the-art equipment to Heta Vocational Ground in Jinja City.
The donation worth UGX20 million, underscores MTN's commitment to fostering inclusive, empowered an sustainable development of communities across Uganda.
Speaking at the handover of the equipment, Ms. Hellen Kirunda, the founder of Heta Vocational Ground, highlighted the anticipated impact of this support: "The infusion of modern technology into our operations not only augments our production capacity but also broadens the economic prospects for our learners and the institution at large," she stated.
- The vocational training center, known for its commitment to empowering vulnerable communities, has historically relied on basic tailoring machines for training and employment initiatives. The limitations of such equipment have constrained both the learning velocity and the more than 300 learners at the institute.
This scenario is poised for a significant overhaul following the MTN Foundation's generous provision of industrial-grade tailoring machines, inclusive of embroidery units, alongside four internet-ready computers, and comprehensive phone repair toolkits.
Kirunda said they envision expansion of the center's vocational training offerings to nine additional districts, including Iganga, Kamuli, Luuka, Bugiri, Mayuge, Bugweri, Buyende, Kalio, Namutumba, and Namayingo.
- The institution has been credited for playing a pivotal role in curtailing unemployment and underemployment, fostering job creation through comprehensive skills training in areas crucial for Uganda's sustained economic advancement.
"Empowering the youth with marketable skills is fundamental for sustained community and national development, fostering a cycle of creativity, innovation, and lifelong productivity," Ms. Kirunda said.
Mr Allan Njagala, MTN's Head of Commercial for Eastern Region, said they are committed to a future where every Ugandan, regardless of their background or status, has access to the opportunities afforded by a modern, connected life. "Our partnership with Heta Vocational Grounds embodies our collective pursuit of unstoppable community transformation," he added.
The grant is part of MTN's Changemakers Initiative, which was launched in July last year to support individuals and organizations creating impact in their communities.
The company has since allocated UGX 500 million to support 25 select projects nationwide, spanning various sectors, as part of its broader commitment to investing in Uganda's future. This endeavor aims to empower youth, women, persons with disabilities, and rural communities across five Ugandan regions.
- Over the past decade, the MTN Foundation has contributed UGX 30 billion towards more than 250 projects in education, health, youth empowerment, and more, establishing itself as a key driver of positive change and development across Uganda.