In the remote town of Pader District in Northern Uganda Acholi Sub-region, nestled amidst the serene backdrop of nature, an extraordinary event took place at Blessed Daudi Okello and Jildo Irwa Catholic parish formerly known as Pader Town Parish. Over two days, the Parish buzzed with energy and enthusiasm as it hosted a comprehensive leadership and management training for the youth to become the Site management committees (SMCs) of Blessed Daudi Okello and Jildo Irwa ICT Centre established by BOSCO Uganda LTD with funding from Internet Society. This transformative training was aimed at equipping SMCs with the essential skills required to manage the ICT Centre project in their area.
Day One:
Foundations of Leadership and Risk Management
The first day commenced with a warm welcome from the parish leaders, Rev Fr. Kennedy (Curate of the parish) setting a tone of excitement and purpose. The sessions began with an in-depth exploration of the evaluation of past ICT projects. The youth engaged in group activities to review previous projects, identifying successes and areas for improvement. This reflective exercise fostered a deeper understanding of project dynamics and the critical factors contributing to successful outcomes.
Following this, the focus shifted to the composition of the leadership of the site management committees. Participants were introduced to the roles and responsibilities essential for effective site management. Through interactive discussions and role-playing exercises, the youth gained insights into the importance of diverse leadership and the strengths each member brings to the committee.
The afternoon sessions were dedicated to risk management. Participants learned to identify potential risks in project planning and implementation, and more importantly, strategies to mitigate these risks. Real-life scenarios allowed the youth to brainstorm and propose solutions, enhancing their problem-solving skills.
Day Two:
Conflict Management, Sustainability, and Monitoring
Day two kicked off with an engaging session on conflict management. Recognizing that conflicts are inevitable in any group setting, the training provided practical techniques for resolving disputes amicably. Role-playing exercises helped the youth practice these techniques, preparing them to handle conflicts constructively in real-life situations.
The next segment focused on sustainability and income-generating activities. This session was particularly inspiring, as it highlighted innovative ways to ensure the longevity and financial viability of the ICT Centre. Participants brainstormed ideas for community-driven initiatives that could support the project and benefit the local economy.
Documentation and record keeping were emphasized in the following session, underscoring their importance for transparency and accountability. The youth learned best practices for maintaining accurate records, which are crucial for tracking progress and making informed decisions.
The final session covered monitoring and evaluation. Participants were introduced to various tools and techniques for assessing the effectiveness of their ICT Centre. By setting measurable goals and regularly reviewing progress, the youth were equipped with the skills to ensure continuous improvement and success of their initiatives.
Empowering the future leaders
The two-day training concluded with a heartfelt closing ceremony. The Curate of the parish (Rev Fr. Kennedy) commended the participants for their dedication and active participation.
The impact of this training extends beyond the two days of intensive learning. It has sown the seeds of leadership, responsibility, and innovation in the hearts of the youth. As they step into their roles in the site management committees, they carry with them the knowledge and confidence to drive the ICT Centre towards a brighter, more sustainable future for the community.
Below are some of the photos taken
This remarkable event at the Blessed Daudi Okello and Jildo Irwa ICT Centre (formerly Pader Town Parish) has truly empowered the next generation of leaders, ensuring that the ICT Centre will not only thrive but also pave the way for continued growth and development in Pader Town
Compiled by Mwaka Emmanuel Venish