FCA Uganda graduates youth for higher education and work
The Iteme Preparatory Program, supported by FCA Uganda, continues to equip refugee and host community youth in Uganda with essential skills for higher education and employment.
A new cohort, a new milestone
Kampala, 8 January 2026 — Fifty-six (56) students have graduated from the Iteme Preparatory Program, supported by Finn Church Aid (FCA) Uganda and Kepler, a nonprofit higher education organisation based in Kigali, Rwanda.
Drawn from both refugee and host communities, the graduates successfully completed the program in December 2025, marking the first cohort of Year Two.
The graduation ceremony, held at the FCA Solutions Hub in Kampala, celebrated the completion of an intensive four-month preparatory course designed to bridge the gap between secondary education and access to higher education and employment opportunities.
Preparing youth for what comes next
The Iteme Preparatory Program equips high school graduates with critical competencies, including English language proficiency, professional skills, basic ICT, numeracy, and career readiness.
Together, these skills enable participants to navigate university admissions processes and compete more effectively in the labour market.
Speaking at the ceremony, FCA Uganda Deputy Country Director, Mr. Stephen Ssenkima noted that the initiative provides crucial support for students who are unable to transition immediately from secondary to higher education, helping them prepare for the next steps.
“Acquiring a skill is one thing, but putting it into practice is another,” Ssenkima told the graduates. “Use the skills you have gained here, and if you do not find opportunities, come to us. We will support you further to ensure you can continue your journey.”
He reaffirmed FCA’s commitment to expanding inclusive education pathways for refugee and host community youth through strong partnerships.
Growth beyond academics
For many graduates, the program marked a significant turning point in both personal and academic development.
Graduate Gok Martha Ajang shared how the experience shaped her beyond the classroom.
“The Iteme Program gave me more than lessons. I found discipline, courage, and confidence, qualities I’m not sure I could have developed on my own,” she said.
“The soft skills I gained will stay with me wherever I go, whether at university or in the workplace. This is proof that we can achieve excellence if we commit ourselves fully.”
She added, “The training went beyond books and lessons. I learned how to prepare for interviews, work in teams, and present myself with confidence. These skills will stay with me whether I am in university or in the workplace.”
Ahmed Ibrahim Hussein, a Sudanese graduate, described the program as life-changing.
“The Iteme Program gave me the opportunity to resume my studies and work toward my goals,” he said.
“I learned how to explore alternative options, gained ICT skills that I can use to apply for scholarships, and improved my English in both writing and speaking. On the first day of class, I could not speak in front of people, but now I can do so with confidence. I am truly grateful to FCA for the guidance, patience, and chance to grow.”
Scholarships and bright futures
Of the 56 graduates, seven have already secured scholarships to pursue university studies at Kepler College in Kigali, underscoring the initiative’s role in opening doors to higher education and life-changing opportunities.
Bridging potential to opportunity
As they graduate, Iteme alumni join a growing community of young people better equipped to navigate higher education systems and employment pathways, serving as a bridge between potential and opportunity for refugee and host community youth alike.
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Text and Images: Linda Kabuzire/FCA