In a critical move to bridge the communication gap between government and citizens in this digital age, the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, in a groundbreaking partnership with DStv Uganda (MultiChoice Uganda), on Friday successfully graduated over 200 Government of Uganda communicators.
This intensive, week-long training in Strategic Communications and Digital Skills marks a significant leap forward in enhancing public service delivery and rebuilding trust.
The rigorous program convened communication officers from Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) across the entire government spectrum.
It served as a dynamic platform for invaluable cross-sector collaboration, fostering peer learning and igniting a renewed commitment to effective, impactful public communication.
Dr. Aminah Zawedde, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, underscored the profound vision behind the initiative.
“As the government, we are committed to building a digitally literate, informed, and engaged society,” she stated.
“Through this training, we have laid a strong foundation for enhanced communication that resonates with our people and reflects the realities of the digital age. I am confident that the skills you have gained will not only improve service delivery but also rebuild public trust in government messaging,” she added.
This strategic collaboration between a key government ministry and a leading private sector entity like MultiChoice Uganda (DStv Uganda) exemplifies a powerful public-private partnership.
Hassan Saleh, the Director at MultiChoice Uganda, expressed the company’s enthusiasm about this skilling exercise and the partnership with the government.
“MultiChoice Uganda is thrilled about the success of our partnership with the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, which has culminated in this impactful week-long training, where government communicators have gained additional valuable skills to help them perform their roles more effectively,” Saleh said.
The initiative equipped participants with crucial modern communication techniques, including crisis communication and management, localising government messaging, visual storytelling, event narration, and strategic use of various digital platforms.
In an era where misinformation can rapidly undermine public confidence, empowering government communicators with these advanced skills is paramount.
This training, according to Dr. Zawedde, signifies a pivotal step towards ensuring government communication is credible, timely, and impactful, ultimately strengthening the bond between the state and its citizens and driving national development forward.