RITAH

As students prepare for their long holidays, educationists and community leaders in Namayingo District are urging them to engage in entrepreneurial activities.

This advice comes as a way to empower students to earn a living and avoid becoming a burden to their families and communities during the break.

The call was made by local stakeholders who highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship as a means of combating rising issues such as teenage pregnancy and criminal activities.

In an interview with our reporter, Walugembe Suleiman Juko, the Deputy RDC of Namayingo District emphasized that the upcoming festive season presents both an opportunity and a challenge. He urged all stakeholders to join efforts in curbing criminal activities and the worrying rise in teenage pregnancies that have become prevalent in the region.

Benard Mugunya, a teacher at Fortune Secondary School, pointed out that Namayingo faces several socio-economic challenges such as fishing, sand mining, and emerging gold mining businesses, all of which have led some school-going children to drop out of school and contributed to the increase in teenage pregnancies in the area.

Speaking to Natumanya Emimma Benina, an educationist, she encouraged all students, especially those who have completed their exams or are nearing the end of their studies, to apply the knowledge they have gained to start small businesses or entrepreneurial ventures to support themselves during the break.

Aggrey Mayende, the chairperson of the Busia Head Teachers’ Association, also echoed this sentiment, urging final-year students to embrace practical work such as produce trading and other locally-based businesses, as these activities provide valuable skills and a source of income while they prepare for further education.

In interviews with several students who are currently sitting for their Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) exams, many expressed their readiness to apply entrepreneurial skills they’ve learned in school. Several of the students revealed plans to start small businesses or join local ventures during their holidays.

Mugeni Shaban, a local trader who deals in firewood, shared that his business has been a reliable source of income and encouraged other students to take up similar ventures during their holiday breaks.