By our reporter
Dokolo- A total of 619 students from three technical institutes have graduated in various vocational short courses after successfully completing their studies.
The graduation ceremony was held Wednesday at Adwoki Technical Institute in Dokolo district.
The graduands were from Adwoki Technical Institute, Dokolo Technical School and Obete Memorial Vocational Institute in Kangai all in Dokolo district.
They attained certificates in the various disciplines including tailoring and garment cutting as well as catering and hair dressing after a 3-months study period.
According to Dr. Robinson Isaac Ogwang, a TASO board member, the students were enrolled by PACE with support from TASO under a global fund programme.
The programme which runs from 2020 upto 2023 is being implemented in 20 districts throughout the country to help adolescent girls obtain skills for self-reliance.
The beneficiaries are from Kitgum, Pader, Dokolo, Mbale, Jinja Iganga, Hoima, Buvuma, Bukwo, Nakasongola and Bulisa among others.
All the students who graduated on Thursday received start up equipment and resources to hire a business area.
Hilda Namutebi, the PACE communication specialist noted that the granduands were equipped with sewing machines for tailoring department as well as salon and catering services equipment to enable them work in their communities.
Sam Omiat, Director Adwoki Technical Institute said the institution is fully prepared to train more students in the next admission program.
“I want to appreciate PACE for entrusting us with this project. Adwoki Technical Institute has capacity to handle even 500 trainees so give us more children.” said Omiat.
Omiat appreciated the effort by PACE, TASO, students and their parents who contributed a lot in making the program a success.
Ketty Adongo and Joyce Akullu who trained from Adwoki Technical school expressed optimism for new life after going through difficult times as young and single mothers.
“While I was home, I went through a lot until when PACE came to my rescue. I have received skills and these skills will enable me to live happily and raise my child like other parents.” Said Adong