Today, Ntare School hosted a joyful and inspiring graduation ceremony for the first (January 2026 in-take) and second (May 2026 in-take) cohorts of the Foundation of Software Development training program. The event celebrated the successful completion of a three-week intensive training where young women were equipped with practical skills in HTML5 and CSS3 to design and build their own websites.

A Celebration of Growth and Achievement

The graduation began with student project presentations, where participants confidently showcased the websites they developed during the training. Over two hours, the young women presented their work, demonstrating not only technical competence but also creativity and growing professionalism.

Websites Developed by the Participants

During the training, participants worked on real projects and successfully built and hosted their own websites on Netlify. Below are some of the websites developed by the young women:

Lab 1 – Facilitated by Ticha Denis

• Narinda Viola Mildred – My Final Web Project
• Ahumuza Pretty – My Website Project
• Atukunda Shivan – Atukunda’s Personal Website
• Asiimwe Colette – My Final Project
• Kwarisiima Benia – Benia Natural Juices

Lab 2 – Facilitated by Madam Deborah

• Mutesi Doreen – Ting’s Mandarin Language School
• Atuhaire Ruth – Bella Bloom
• Baziina Mariam Claire – Claire Bunny Babies Shop
• Katusiime Evalyne – Eva’s Closet
• Namugeny Patricia – Mama Victor Restaurant

Immediately after the presentations, the participants sat for a one-hour auto-generated assessment that tested both their technical knowledge in HTML5 and CSS3 as well as non-technical competencies such as problem-solving, freelancing, and work-readiness skills.

What the Participants Learned

The training combined technical web development with essential life and professional skills. Participants covered:

• Week 1: Life skills & personal development, Human-Centred Design for problem-solving, and Introduction to Computing.
• Week 2: HTML5 and CSS3 fundamentals, building multi-page websites, and Introduction to Freelancing & Business.
• Week 3: Content Management Systems (WordPress, Webflow & Wix), project development, technical coaching, and Work-readiness training.

A learner-centered methodology was used throughout, emphasizing hands-on practice, scaffolded learning, collaboration, and real-time feedback. This approach enabled the young women to build practical skills while developing confidence and independence.

The ceremony featured inspiring remarks from key stakeholders. A student representative shared the participants’ journey and the impact the training had on their confidence and future aspirations. This was followed by addresses from the Facilitator representative, the Host Headteacher/Administrator, and the Refactory Administrator, each highlighting the importance of digital skills development for young women and the collaborative effort behind the program’s success.

Cake Cutting and Certificate Presentation

Following the remarks from the Guest of Honor, the Headteacher of Ntare School, the atmosphere became even more joyful during the cake-cutting ceremony. Class coordinators from both cohorts, facilitators, Madam Patricia, and the Guest of Honor jointly cut the cake on behalf of the graduates. The cake was happily shared and enjoyed by all participants, marking a sweet celebration of their achievement.

Participants were later awarded certificates of completion, recognizing their dedication and successful completion of the program.

The event concluded with an open conversation session, where participants, facilitators, and administrators shared experiences, challenges overcome, and lessons learned throughout the training. It was a moment of reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to continuous learning.

Appreciation to Ntare School

I extend my sincere gratitude to the administration of Ntare School for hosting the three-week training. Their support in providing space, resources, and a conducive learning environment was instrumental to the success of the program. The school’s willingness to create opportunities for young women to gain digital skills is highly commendable.

Gratitude to Refactory Uganda and the 10X Program

This training was made possible through the 10X Program by Refactory Academy, who engaged me as a consultant to facilitate the program. The 10X Program is a fully funded initiative by the Mastercard Foundation that equips young women aged 18–35 with practical digital skills and connects them to opportunities in the digital economy. I am truly grateful to Refactory for the opportunity to contribute to this impactful work.

A Personal Reflection

As a facilitator, I had the privilege of co-facilitating this training alongside Madam Deborah Kalungi, Director of Top Notch. Walking this journey with the young women has been deeply rewarding. Seeing them grow from beginners to confident web developers who could independently design and deploy live websites on Netlify has been truly inspiring. The graduation was not just a celebration of certificates, but a powerful reminder of the transformation, resilience, and impact of practical, learner-centered training.

Impact and Looking Ahead

The feedback from the participants has been very encouraging. Many shared how the training boosted their confidence, helped them overcome their fear of coding, and opened their eyes to new opportunities in technology. This program has shown what is possible when young women are given access to quality, hands-on digital skills training.

I remain committed to creating more opportunities for young people — especially women — to gain practical tech skills that can open doors to employment and entrepreneurship.

“If you are a school, organization, or institution looking to run similar practical web development training for young women or students, I would be happy to discuss how we can work together.”