Our team is grateful for the opportunity to serve and learn from St. Bakhita’s Vocational Training Center (SBVTC) in Kalongo, Uganda. Our project focused on identifying opportunities in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector to advance SBVTC’s goals including:
Achieve self-sustainability for SBVTC within five years
Ensure Innovation Scholars at SBVTC have the resources and support to thrive
Improve the economic prosperity of the region.
Northern Uganda’s ICT sector poses a challenge in terms of infrastructure, access to technology, and digital training, particularly for women. But it also presents an opportunity for SBVTC to become an anchor for digital inclusion given its state-of-the-art computer lab, location in Kalongo, reliable power and internet access, and its passionate students and staff. The ICT program is already nurturing entrepreneurial aspirations among young women, many of whom want to start training centers or tech cafés to serve their communities.
By providing job-aligned internships, creating a support ecosystem, and aligning ICT training with community needs, St. Bakhita can become a launchpad for inclusive digital participation in Northern Uganda. After a semester of research and collaboration between SBVTC and our team, we co-created the following recommendations:
ICT Club for networking, mentorship, and community building
A student-led club that facilitates personal and professional development through mentorship programs, reverse mentorship programs, guest lecturers, treks, and community engagement.
Internships for academic and professional development
Students can support local businesses through ICT-based internships, such as flyer design, record keeping, lab management, or teaching classes, highlighting the utility of ICT for local businesses and the community while assisting students in meeting the requirements for their certificate.
Digital learning and services hub
SBVTC can commercialize unused lab and equipment time and space to operate business ventures in collaboration with the ICT Club and Internship initiatives to provide affordable access to ICT courses, printing services, and rental space to the community. This will also generate some revenue for the school.