By: Kanto
Kai Okanta
MTN Uganda has officially
handed over a new MTN Spark Hub at Busitema University, expanding access to
digital skills development, innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities for
students and surrounding communities.
The Busitema facility is the
second MTN Spark Hub established by the company, following the first hub at
Kabale University. The initiative forms part of MTN Uganda Foundation’s UGX4
billion investment over three years to strengthen Uganda’s digital innovation
ecosystem.
The programme is expected to
provide more than 20,000 students and community members with access to
future-focused digital skills training and mentorship.
Through the MTN Skills
Academy, learners using the hub will have opportunities to develop capabilities
in Data Science and Analytics, Software Development and Coding, Artificial
Intelligence and Machine Learning, Cybersecurity and Cloud Computing.
The hub will also provide
collaborative workspaces and mentorship designed to help students and aspiring
entrepreneurs turn ideas into practical solutions and businesses.
MTN Uganda said the
initiative is intended to go beyond providing computers and physical
infrastructure by creating an environment where young people can experiment,
develop ideas and create solutions to challenges within their communities.
Aminah Zawedde, Permanent
Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, emphasised that access
to the facility would extend beyond the university, allowing members of the
surrounding community to strengthen their digital skills.
Francis Gimara, Trustee at
MTN Foundation, said the success of the initiative would ultimately be measured
by the entrepreneurs who emerge, businesses that are built, innovations created
and solutions developed to address real challenges in Uganda.
MTN Uganda said it remains
committed through the MTN Uganda Foundation to investing in communities and
creating opportunities for young people to develop the skills, confidence and
tools required to participate meaningfully in Uganda’s digital future.
The company acknowledged the
Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Cente Tech, AniScholar Career Hub and
Busitema University for their support in establishing the hub.
