EMPOWERING INCLUSION OF PWDS THROUGH EMPLOYABILITY SKILLING

UCC, NUDIPU, AND EIGHT TECH DRIVE DIGITAL EMPLOYABILITY AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES.

In a bold step towards an inclusive digital economy, the National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIPU), in partnership with Eight Tech Consults Limited and with support from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) under the UCUSAF initiative, successfully conducted a four-day online training on employability and entrepreneurship skills for persons with disabilities across Uganda.

Held virtually on the 2nd, 3rd, 6th, and 7th of October 2025, the training leveraged digital platforms to reach participants from various regions of the country demonstrating the transformative power of technology in promoting inclusive learning. The initiative aimed to bridge the digital and employment divide by equipping participants with practical knowledge and skills to thrive in today’s evolving job and business landscape.

“This program has shown us that persons with disabilities have the potential to compete and succeed when given the right tools, skills, and opportunities,” said Mr. Walugembe John Bosco, Focal Person at NUDIPU.

Empowering through Skills

The interactive online sessions focused on key areas designed to enhance both professional and entrepreneurial capacity. Training modules included:

• Soft Skills: Strengthening communication, teamwork, and self-confidence in professional settings.
• CV Writing: Developing impactful résumés that highlight abilities and experiences.
• Application Letters: Crafting persuasive applications to increase employability.
• Financial Management: Building financial literacy for personal and business growth.

A total of 79 participants out of 100 registered successfully completed the training. The sessions were delivered by four dynamic Trainers of Trainers Mr. Isaac Mbabazi, Fiona Nambogo, Mr. Musa Mwabu, and Shirah Narindah who used accessible online tools and participatory methods to ensure inclusivity and engagement throughout the program.

Challenges and Lessons

While the online model enabled broader participation, several challenges were observed including budget limitations, limited training days, and the absence of physical, hands-on sessions that would have strengthened practical experience and job placement opportunities. Despite these constraints, the virtual format proved effective in reaching a wider audience of persons with disabilities who might otherwise have faced mobility or logistical barriers.

Sustainability and the Way Forward

To build on the success of this virtual training, NUDIPU and its partners are exploring the establishment of ICT Hubs across Districts as centers for ongoing Digital Skills Training, content creation, and entrepreneurship mentorship. These Hubs will provide accessible physical spaces to complement online programs, ensuring continued learning and innovation.

Participants are also being guided to register with local governments and Organizations Persons Disabilities (OPDs) to promote sustainability and integration within community structures.

“We are committed to building sustainable pathways for Persons With Disabilities to access Technology, Employment, and Business Opportunities. With continued support from partners like UCC and Eight Tech, the vision of digital inclusion can become a national reality,” added Mr. Walugembe.

A Step Toward an Inclusive Digital Future

As Uganda accelerates its digital transformation, initiatives like this online training mark a significant milestone in promoting equal participation for all. By empowering persons with disabilities with employability and entrepreneurship skills, UCC, NUDIPU, and Eight Tech Consults are not only bridging the digital divide but also redefining inclusion in the digital era.

Together, these partners are demonstrating that true empowerment begins with access, skills, and opportunity ensuring that every individual, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s social and economic development