By Nathan Eyagu 

Soroti City — Jeressar High School has announced a strategic partnership with COSMESS Uganda, a capacity-building organization focused on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and youth skills development, to launch a comprehensive skills training program for students starting in First Term 2026.

The initiative is designed to equip students with practical, hands-on skills that will prepare them for employment, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance in today’s competitive job market. COSMESS Uganda, which collaborates with over 50 secondary schools across the country, aims to empower youth with relevant vocational competencies.

Catherine Baatyo, CEO of COSMESS Uganda, highlighted the importance of the program, noting that while Uganda continues to produce many graduates, the job market cannot absorb them all. She emphasized the mission of nurturing job creators rather than job seekers by equipping students with practical skills that make them self-reliant.

She explained that the program aligns with the government’s Competence-Based Curriculum and contributes to the broader objectives of Uganda Vision 2040, which stresses that every Ugandan should acquire at least one practical skill. She also referenced Vision 2024, highlighting that having a National ID is essential for accessing key services, demonstrating the importance of structured skills development in building capable citizens.

Under the program, students will have the opportunity to gain practical knowledge in areas such as electrical installation, catering and bakery, fashion and tailoring, hairdressing and beautification, automotive electrical and electronics, and agriculture-based skills.

The program will initially target Senior Two (S2) and Senior Three (S3) students, with each student paying 50,000 UGX termly to enroll in a selected skill course. Upon completion, learners will be assessed and awarded certificates recognizing their acquired competencies.

The school administration also called upon the public to take advantage of open admissions, encouraging parents and guardians to enroll their children as the school expands its academic and vocational offerings.

With this partnership, Jeressar High School aims to provide students with practical skills that enhance employability, foster entrepreneurship, and prepare youth to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s growing economy.