Anthony's life has been a journey filled with struggles and obstacles. As a young man growing up in Uganda, a country where the general unemployment rate stands at 4.28% while the youth unemployment rate is at 6.58% as Reported by Development Aid on 13th Aug 2023.
He faced financial difficulties and lacked access to quality education. Despite these challenges, Anthony never gave up on his dreams and kept pushing himself to achieve his goals.
Although Anthony has never been involved in any acts of violent extremism, he has been exposed to scenarios on the streets where fellow young people were demonstrating and facing police brutality which is considered one of the PUSH factors to Violent Extremism. This exposure makes Anthony among the many young people who have been exposed to violent extremism. As an underprivileged young man, unemployed with so many frustrations, he could have engaged in any dangerous acts, but he was patient with life. Fortunately for Anthony, he got lucky and joined Katwe Skills Centre, thanks to Uganda Muslim Youth Development Forum (UMYDF) partnership with FCA Uganda and a generous funding from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland, Anthony has learned valuable skills that have changed his life.
He shared with us his story of how he faced financial struggles throughout his life, even as a senior four-leaver with a certificate. He aimed to get a first grade, but due to financial struggles and lack of quality materials, he only got a second grade in Senior Four. Anthony had to work to get what he wanted, such as part of the school fees. After completing his exams, he had to leave his certificate at school since he couldn't afford to pay for it.
One day, Anthony's friend, who was studying Hone Electronics at Katwe Skills Centre, told him about a school where they could study for free. Anthony had previously wanted to study mass communication but due to financial struggles, he couldn't. He decided to come to Katwe Skills Centre for a short course in Home Electronics, and currently, he has the skills. Now he offers Home Electronic services like domestic installation of electricity in houses, and installing light sockets and switches. Anthony can now earn a living from the skills he has learned at Katwe Skills Centre.
Katwe Skills Centre Home Electronic Class in Session
Anthony appreciates the staff and teachers who have been good to them, especially his die-hard teacher Madam Regina, who has constantly guided them. He came to school for a certificate but developed an interest in electricity and now works as an electrician. Anthony is not working for massive repayments, but he can earn enough money to provide for himself and also support his mum.
Anthony's mum is a vendor who sells clothes; this is where she gets the little money to support herself. Anthony knows that his mum needs more money to save and increase the capital, but what she gets is not enough. When Anthony works and gets 200k, he sends her like 100k to help her enrich her business; he hopes one day she will also be happy.
He has undergone a significant change in his personality - he has become a more peaceful person. His time at the Katwe Skills Centre has furthered this transformation. They have been taught about peacebuilding by people like Madam Aaliyah, who have encouraged them to look at the bigger picture and have hope. Through their lessons, Anthony has learned that anyone can succeed in life. They have even been trained in creating business plans. With a small capital of even 200k UGX, Anthony started a Chapat business, and now he earns 10k UGX daily. He also takes the time to teach his fellow youth about Peace and Business.
Photo: Katwe Skills Centre Students During Peacebuilding Lessons.
Anthony no longer feels the need to shout on the streets and demand change from the president. Instead, he teaches people to stop indulging in such activities and explains the consequences - they might lose their lives and leave their families behind. Anthony encourages people to focus on peace instead of engaging in conflicts and disrespect. They have been able to handle simple problems like disagreements and disrespect among vendors thanks to these teachings.
He is planning to pursue a diploma in electrical engineering, but he wants to finish his current studies first. He aims to establish a strong source of income. To achieve this, Anthony plans to study three modules, obtain a working permit, and work as an electrician to pay for his diploma tuition. He wishes to be limitless in his career choices.
His second plan is to start an electronics business. He has already made plans for it as they were taught how to plan businesses. Although he has not yet acquired the equipment, Anthony has already secured a space for a workshop. He wants to specialize in electrical gadgets, such as freezers, and provide installation services. He aspires to run a successful electronics business.
Anthony's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination. Despite all the challenges he faced, he never gave up on his dreams. By learning new skills, Anthony has been able to improve his life and the lives of those around him. His story is an inspiration to many young people in Uganda who face similar struggles. We thank FCA Uganda for the partnership in implementing the Katwe Skills Centre Training program, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland for the generous Donation
