WorldSkills competitions are redefining the future of young Ugandans by offering them a platform to enhance their skills, benchmark their skills against their peers, gain international exposure, and secure meaningful employment.
Beyond medals and trophies, WorldSkills competitions are shaping careers of young Ugandans, and proving that vocational training can be a gateway to both professional success and personal growth.
One young Ugandan whose life has been transformed by the WorldSkills competitions is Hussama Mugerwa.
When Mugerwa joined the Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute (UHTTI), Jinja in 2019 to pursue a diploma in Hotel Management, he did not anticipate that vocational education would open him doors to global recognition and prestigious opportunities.
In 2022, Mugerwa represented Uganda at the WorldSkills Africa competitions in Namibia, where he won a bronze medal.
His impressive performance earned him a place at the WorldSkills International competitions in Switzerland, where he emerged as the best performer among all African contestants.
“Taking part in the competitions changed my life personally and professionally,” said Mugerwa.
“Skills competitions helped me secure a job at Uganda’s most prestigious hotel, Serena Hotel. I also built international friendships when I competed in the WorldSkills international competitions,” he added.
Mugerwa believes that Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is the solution to youth unemployment.
TVET’s strength, Mugerwa says, lies not only in imparting practical skills. He points out that vocational training provides career counselling, emphasizes market-relevant skills, and empowers learners to inspire others.
“TVET emphasizes hands-on skills which are highly needed in the job market,” he explained.
“It empowers young people to inspire others to pursue a TVET career. I have been given opportunities to talk to young people at multiple events, encouraging them to consider TVET as a viable pathway,” he added.
From classrooms in Jinja to international stages, Mugerwa’s journey reflects the life-changing power of WorldSkills competitions.
His story underscores that TVET is not a second option, but a direct path to employment, empowerment, and global recognition.
