In the mid-term of February, the United Nations Association of Uganda (UNAU) embarked on a series of chapter visits across some of the regions of the country, fostering knowledge exchange, mentorship, and skills development for young leaders.
Over the weekend, Gulu University played host to an insightful orientation session focused on the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) platform. The session, facilitated by Desmond Anywar from the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), provided students with practical guidance on signing up for the UNV portal, understanding the requirements, and identifying opportunities aligned with their academic backgrounds.
The UNAU Secretary-General led an engaging discussion on soft skills and strategies to stand out in a competitive job market. Emphasizing the power of personal branding, he urged participants to leverage social media to showcase their skills and advocate for their passions. In today’s dynamic world, employers value authenticity and track record- digital platforms serve as a window into an individual’s journey and impact.
A critical highlight of the engagement was a session on the dangers of tobacco consumption, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 3 on good health and well-being. The discussion explored the importance of tobacco taxation in Uganda, particularly for youth, while debunking industry myths. Participants identified cigarette products violating Uganda’s Tobacco Control Law, citing brands like Oris that lack health warnings and pictorial labeling and flavored to entice youths to consume them. Witnessing young champions take an active stance on public health issues was truly inspiring.
At Nkumba University, the discussions centered on the essence of volunteerism, serving humanity beyond borders. With 17 Sustainable Development Goals, students were encouraged to identify areas within their communities where they could drive meaningful change. No impact is too small; every effort contributes to a larger vision. They were also advised to seek mentorship and deepen their learning experiences wherever possible.
The week wrapped up with an orientation at Kyambogo University, where success stories underscored the transformative power of volunteering. African United Nations Youth Representative Nasasira Isaac shared a thought-provoking quote: “When you hang around the barber shop, sooner or later, you will get a haircut.” His journey from youth representative to co-founding Youth Against Alcohol and Drugs exemplifies the power of surrounding oneself with inspiring mentors and opportunities.
The engagements were not just about discussions, fun-filled activities like Simon Says added an element of excitement, testing participants’ attentiveness and rewarding winners with books. To close the sessions, the UNAU Secretary-General shared the inspiring story of UNAU’s inception, its growth over 27 years, and its role in empowering young people in institutions across Uganda. He reinforced the importance of networks, emphasizing that opportunities often stem from recognizing challenges and turning them into actionable solutions.
In his final remarks, he encouraged young people to take initiative, make the most of available resources, and never shy away from applying for opportunities. “The world is ready for those who take action. Value yourself, seek mentorship, and embrace intergenerational solidarity. Don’t miss the train.
By Kalema Andrew Arnold
