Knowledge is Treasure
A nationwide youth movement dedicated to the full development of humanity across Uganda — building skills, character and opportunity for young people and vulnerable communities.
A movement for holistic human development
Founded on Christian principles and open to all, Mukono YMCA College equips young people and vulnerable communities with the skills, character and opportunities to transform their lives — and their nation.
The first mention of a YMCA in Uganda was made in a 1913 report of the World Alliance. The matter rested until 1947, when the World Alliance of YMCAs in Geneva sent Dr. George Haynes to investigate the possibilities for YMCAs in Africa. He met in Uganda E. M. K. Mulira, and as a result the present site for the Headquarters — the Kampala YMCA building — was chosen.
- Established in 1913 and rooted in Christian values
- Led by a National Council and Board with branch leadership
- Non-discriminatory in religion, tribe and age
- Serving youth and vulnerable groups across Uganda
More than a century of service
From its Kampala headquarters to the Rwenzori region of Kasese, Mukono YMCA College has grown into a national family of branches and institutions delivering education, skilling and care to young people.
Vision, mission & goal
The principles that guide how we serve young people, families and communities every day.
Our Vision
A transformed self-sustaining Institution that focuses on effective leadership which promotes full improvement of humanity.
Our Mission
Provision of full development of humanity, with specific emphasis on the youth and other vulnerable groups.
Our Goal
Promotion of self-reliance and participation of all stakeholders in YMCA activities.
Our core values
Four principles guide every decision, programme and relationship across the YMCA family.
Caring
We act with compassion and put the wellbeing of young people and communities first.
Honesty
We are transparent and accountable in everything we do and say.
Respect
We honour the dignity, diversity and potential of every person we serve.
Responsibility
We take ownership of our actions and our impact on society.
Three pathways to opportunity
Build practical ICT skills, learn to drive professionally, or master a global language — and open doors to work, study and enterprise.
Computer School
Over 24 hands-on ICT courses — from Microsoft Office and graphics to programming, networking, accounting and electronics repair.
- Microsoft Office & Typing
- Graphics, Web & Animation
- Programming & Cyber Security
- Repair, Networking & Holiday classes
Driving School
Certified driving instruction for manual and automatic vehicles, with full support for your Learner's and Driving Permit processing.
- Professional instructors
- Flexible 30-min or 1-hour lessons
- Permit processing support
- Weekend training on request
Languages
Internationally relevant language skills in English, German and Kiswahili to unlock global study, work and business opportunities.
- Study-abroad preparation
- International job competitiveness
- Business & travel advantage
- Recognised certification
Centres of learning & opportunity
From comprehensive campuses to community schools, our institutions combine education with care and skilling.
YMCA Comprehensive Institute (YCI)
Kampala & Buwambo CampusUganda's first chartered Other Degree Awarding Institution (established 1986), offering 30+ NCHE-accredited vocational and technical courses — from business and IT to hospitality, fashion and technical trades.
Visit websiteYMCA College of Business Studies, Jinja
JinjaA Jinja-based college preparing students for business administration, management, entrepreneurship and finance through diploma, certificate and short courses that blend theory with hands-on experience.
Visit websiteMukono YMCA College
Kakinzi, MukonoKakinzi YMCA Day & Boarding School and college, combining education with residential care for orphans.
Enquire about admissionsMukono YMCA Branch School
Mukono, Western RegionVocational and skilling institution serving learners across the western region.
Enquire about admissionsFive branches across Uganda
From the capital, Kampala, to the Rwenzori region of Kasese — find the branch closest to you.
Kampala
HeadquartersThe primary branch and national headquarters, home to foundational programmes that the other branches build upon.
Mukono
WesternServing the western region with skilling and youth development following the Kampala YMCA programme model.
Mukono
CentralHome to Kakinzi YMCA Day & Boarding School, which also serves as an orphanage, plus beautician courses.
Jinja
EasternA vibrant branch with a children's park, social development, computer, catering, tailoring, hairdressing, counselling and commercial courses.
Kasese
RwenzoriFocused on skilled trades and agriculture — carpentry & joinery, brick-making, concrete practice and agroforestry.
Not sure where to start?
Reach out to our national office and we'll connect you with the branch closest to you.
Contact usFrom enrolment to employment
A simple path that takes you from your first enquiry to a recognised qualification.
Enrol
Register at your nearest branch and choose a programme that fits your goals.
Learn
Train with experienced instructors using real tools and equipment.
Certify
Earn a recognised certificate that proves your competence.
Thrive
Find employment or launch your own enterprise with confidence.
News & events
Jinja Branch celebrates new graduates
Congratulations to our latest cohort of graduates across catering, tailoring and ICT programmes at the Jinja branch.
Read moreIntake open for Computer School
Applications are now open for the Certificate in Computer Maintenance and the Certificate in Electronics at the Kampala branch.
Read moreYouth Leadership Camp 2026
A national gathering of young leaders for training, mentorship and fellowship rooted in YMCA Christian values.
Read moreReady to begin your journey?
Enrol in a skilling programme, partner with us, or support our mission to empower Uganda's youth.