On September 10, 2026, Nyakagyeme Regional Model Community Learning Center (CLC) in Rukungiri District marked a historic milestone: the graduation of its first cohort of 28 vocational skills trainees. The celebration was part of Uganda’s national events in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the International Literacy Day, underscoring the global significance of local achievements in adult education.
The event which was jointly organised by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Rukungiri District Local Government and DVV International, was officiated by Hon. Jacklyn Mbabazi – State Minister for the Elderly and Hon. Jim Muhwezi – Minister of Security, who also doubles as the area Member of Parliament – Rujumbura County. Other dignitaries included the District Chairperson, Chief Administrative Officer, DVV International’s Regional Director for East/Horn of Africa, school leaders, civil society representatives, and local government officials.
In her remarks, Hon. Mbabazi emphasized the transformative role of adult learning and education. She reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to expanding CLCs nationwide through the €20 million SUICOLEW Project (Support to Integrated Community Learning for Wealth Creation), which runs until 2030. This initiative will provide second chance education, vocational skills training, and lifelong learning opportunities for both youth and adults.
The area Member of Parliament and Minister of Security, Hon. Jim Muhwezi, who has been instrumental in the establishing of Nyakagyeme CLC pledged additional support to meet growing demand. His commitments include:
- Constructing an extra shelter for vocational skills training
- Establishing a water irrigation system to strengthen the CLC’s agro demonstration facilities
These investments aim to enhance both the infrastructure and sustainability of the center.
On the same occasion, the Regional Director emphasized the relevancy of investing in literacy as a means to equitable and inclusive education. Ms. Frauke further commended the leadership in Uganda both national and local for prioritising investment in Adult Learning and Education through budget and other resources allocation at all levels. Here, Ms. Frauke handed over a set of training materials and equipment worth 10,000 Euros to support training efforts at Nyakagyeme CLC. This pack of equipment included computers and accessories, tailoring equipment and materials as well as hair dressing equipment and materials.
The inaugural graduates at Nyakagyeme Regional Model CLC included:
- 8 trainees in Basic Computer Applications
- 20 trainees in Tailoring and Garment Cutting
All were assessed by the Uganda Vocational Training and Assessment Board, which has recognized Regional Model CLCs as official vocational skills assessment centers under the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development
Nyakagyeme Regional Model CLC now stands as a beacon of opportunity in Western Uganda. With strong government backing, local leadership, and multisectoral partnerships, the CLC is poised to expand its reach, empowering communities through education, skills development, and sustainable livelihoods.