This MTN program addresses the gap between digital skills and employment opportunities, aiming to create real tech-savvy professionals.

Uganda youth are set to gain essential digital skills, thanks to a strategic partnership between the MTN Foundation and Uganda Christian University (UCU).

Through its fintech platform MoMo, MTN said the collaboration marks a significant milestone in its shared mission with UCU to equip young Ugandans with the tools they need to excel in the digital age.

Stephen Mutana, chief strategy and stakeholder officer at MTN Mobile Money Uganda said the integration of the Skills Academy into UCU’s coursework, specifically within the Foundational Basic Computing unit, will provide students with a strong foundation in practical digital skills.

“At MTN Uganda, we believe that everyone should enjoy the benefits of a modern connected life, irrespective of their background or status and this includes access to opportunities.

“Our partnership with Uganda Christian University therefore marks a pivotal chapter in our mission to ensure that every young Ugandan has access to the digital skills needed to succeed in today’s economy,” he said.

Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, UCU vice-chancellor David Mugawe said the collaboration with MTN Uganda on this initiative greatly enriches their curriculum and provides the university’s students with invaluable digital skills training.

“UCU is dedicated to educational excellence and preparing our students for the future. The signing of this MoU exemplifies the fruitful collaboration between the private sector and educational institutions in fostering meaningful change and driving Uganda’s digital agenda forward.

“It is a testament to our collective responsibility to equip our youth with the skills necessary to lead Uganda into a digitally empowered future.,” said Mugawe.

Key to the MTN and UCU partnership is the integration of the MTN Skills Academy into UCU’s curriculum to bridge the digital skills gap and foster economic growth through education and technology.

“Together, we’re integrating the MTN Skills Academy into UCU’s curriculum, specifically within the Foundational Basic Computing unit, to ensure students receive hands-on digital training,” said Mutana.

The MTN Skills Academy, a part of the telecoms giant’s broader Digital Skills for Digital Jobs initiative, has already seen over 1,420 youth enroll since its launch in Uganda. This program addresses the gap between digital skills and employment opportunities, aiming to create real tech-savvy professionals.