Stanbic Bank Uganda marked a significant milestone with the launch of the 10th edition of the Stanbic National Schools Championship, under the theme “The Battle of Champions.”
This annual initiative has grown over the past decade into a transformative platform, nurturing youth entrepreneurship, fostering innovation, and equipping students with practical skills for life.
Speaking at the launch event held at Kampala Serena Hotel, Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Sports, lauded the championship for its impact on youth development.
“Quality education is holistic education,” Dr. Turyagyenda emphasised. “This programme is helping young Ugandans develop not just cognitively but also emotionally and practically. The initiative aligns perfectly with the national curriculum, transforming students into innovative and skilled future leaders.”
A Decade of Transformation
Over the past 10 years, the championship has reached more than 540,000 students, teachers, and community members, with over 600 innovative business ideas generated annually. This has resulted in the creation of over 200 new businesses in sectors such as manufacturing, renewable energy, agriculture, and food production.
Mumba Kenneth Kalifungwa, the Chief Executive of Stanbic Bank Uganda, highlighted the programme’s success and future aspirations.
“This championship is more than a competition; it is a platform that transforms learners from job seekers into job creators. We’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone and announce that this year’s winners will travel to South Africa for an exposure visit to our parent company, Standard Bank Group,” Kalifungwa said.
He added that the initiative has seen an investment of 7 billion Ugandan Shillings over the past decade, underscoring the bank’s commitment to empowering Uganda’s youth.
Expanding Reach and Impact
To commemorate its 10th anniversary, the programme has expanded to include 150 schools and over 60,000 students across Uganda, an increase from 100 schools in previous editions. This year’s competition promises an even greater impact, with a focus on encouraging innovative projects and fostering entrepreneurial skills among participants.
Cathy Adengo, Stanbic Bank’s Head of Sustainability, described the championship as a cornerstone of the bank’s youth empowerment mission.
“As Uganda’s largest bank, we have a duty to create meaningful interventions for the youth. The championship complements the national curriculum, providing students with skills and experiences beyond traditional education,” Adengo remarked.
The Vision for the Future
Dr. Turyagyenda also highlighted the alignment of the championship with Uganda’s Vision 2040, which aims for national transformation through innovation and skills development.
“National transformation depends on the quality of graduates from our education system. The Stanbic National Schools Championship is a prime example of how we can prepare our youth for a prosperous future,” she noted.
The programme’s emphasis on holistic development, incorporating cognitive, emotional, and practical learning, has set a benchmark for youth-focused initiatives in Uganda.
Student Success Stories and Alumni
The event featured testimonials from alumni who have benefited from the championship. Many have gone on to start successful businesses or pursue further education.
Kalifungwa emphasised the importance of tracking alumni success: “We’re thrilled to see how past participants have thrived. Their stories inspire the next generation to dream bigger and achieve more.”
As the competition kicks off, Dr. Turyagyenda encouraged students and teachers to embrace the championship’s opportunities with enthusiasm.
“This is your chance to innovate, collaborate, and grow. Think beyond the classroom and create solutions that benefit your communities and the nation at large,” she urged.
The Stanbic National Schools Championship continues to stand as a beacon of hope for Uganda’s youth, transforming education and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation.