The future of work in Uganda explored at The Annual Human Capital Leaders Conference
Kampala: The Annual Human Capital Development Conference, held at the Four Points Hotel by Sheraton, Kampala, brought together business leaders, policy makers and HR professionals to discuss innovative strategies to empower today’s workforce.
This year’s conference organized by Incredible Youth International (IYI) focused on innovation and skills development to increase future employability of Uganda’s workforce.
Hon. Balaam Barugahara, Minister of State Youth and Children Affairs opening the conference
Hon. Balaam Barugahara Minister of State of Youth and Children Affairs highlighted the role that Government is playing in supporting youth in Uganda, “We recognize the potential of the youth in this country and we’re committed to supporting them to thrive in entrepreneurship. We have put in place funds to support the youth like the Youth Livelihood Fund of about 200 billion UGX available in banks with minimal interest rates,” he said as he officially opened the conference.
Hon. Amelia Kyambadde, Senior Presidential Advisor on Industry addressing the conference participants
Speaking at the event, Hon. Amelia Kyambadde, Senior Presidential Advisor for Industry emphasized the importance of including the rural youth in the conversation on workforce development and the future of the workforce in Uganda. “There’s a large number of our youth workforce that need support to even understand the basic paperwork and processes to access the Government initiatives available to them to help them grow. We must explore solutions for them as well,” she urged while giving her opening remarks.
Simon Harvey, CEO Harris International delivering a speech
The conference was headlined by Dr. John K. Galiotos, Dean of Workforce Development Southern University, a globally recognized expert in workforce development. He delivered an insightful keynote address on the future of work and preparing Uganda for a globalized economy. “It is important that Uganda’s workforce is ready for the future of work to address the challenges of a rapidly evolving job market. Even though technology like AI will take over 85 million jobs, it will also create 97 million new jobs. Ugandans must develop the required skills to position themselves for those jobs,” he said.
The event also showcased best practices and cutting-edge insights for workforce development, with many participants praising the practical solutions offered for addressing the nation’s pressing workforce challenges. Dr. Galiotos highlighted that Uganda with its abundant nature and climate is well-positioned in the region to stand out in the area of renewable energy and decarbonisation and this is where the Ugandan workforce should invest in building capacity. He also noted that as the country industrializes, skills in Safety, Health and Environment will become increasingly critical and indispensable in the future.
The success of the Annual Human Capital Leaders Conference reaffirmed its position as Uganda’s leading event on workforce empowerment and skills development. Attendees left the event equipped with actionable strategies to enhance their workforce’s performance, adaptability, and future-readiness.
