Government Communicators Strengthen Digital Skills Through ICDL Training

The Ministry of ICT & National Guidance (MoICT&NG) concluded a five-day digital skills training program for communication officers from Government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Held from 26th to 30th May 2025 at the National ICT Innovation Hub in Nakawa, Kampala, the training formed part of a broader initiative to strengthen digital competencies within the public service.

This initiative followed a digital skills needs assessment conducted in January 2025, which revealed significant knowledge gaps among government communication staff. In response, MoICT&NG developed a structured program aligned with the International Certification of Digital Literacy (ICDL) framework to empower officers with practical tools for effective communication in a digital-first environment.

The training focused on two core ICDL modules. Computer and Online Essentials introduced foundational skills in computer usage, internet navigation, and digital safety, while Digital Marketing covered online content creation, social media strategy, search engine optimization, and campaign analytics. Training was delivered by ICDL-accredited instructors through hands-on sessions, collaborative group activities, and real-world case studies tailored to the participants’ roles.

Addressing the participants on the last day of training, Dan Muhenda, Market Development Executive at ICDL Africa, praised the participants for their perseverance, focus, and successful performance. “Over the past five days, you have demonstrated outstanding commitment. Despite the distractions of our digital era, you stayed the course, mastered key skills, passed your exams, and proved you are capable of applying these competencies to international standards. We are proud of what you’ve achieved and remain committed to supporting the Government of Uganda as it builds a digitally skilled workforce,” he stated.

Commissioner for Communication, Information and Dissemination, Mr. Moses Watasa, also addressed the group, encouraging them to apply the knowledge gained to their daily work and underscoring the Ministry’s intention to assess real-world implementation, particularly in local government centers. “This training is just the beginning,” he said. “What matters now is how you translate these skills into impact. Let’s prepare for the next modules with the same level of commitment.”

Closing the training officially, Ms. Sophia Nantongo, Under Secretary at MoICT&NG, commended the officers’ active participation and reiterated the Ministry’s vision of building a digitally empowered public service. “Empowered communicators are essential to effective governance,” she remarked. “With the knowledge you’ve gained, you are better positioned to deliver accurate, timely, and impactful public communication across digital platforms.”

The next phase of training, set for July 2025, will cover two additional ICDL modules: Cyber Security, which introduces safe ICT practices, data protection, and secure internet use; and Presentation, which focuses on creating and delivering compelling presentations using digital tools.

This training series represents a significant stride toward professionalizing government communication and advancing Uganda’s digital transformation through a capable and future-ready public service.