What is the Tailoring Course?
We have set up a tailoring course in Wakiso, Uganda, specifically for low-income women and single mothers. This program is structured over three terms, with each term welcoming 35 women for an intensive 240 hours of training. The curriculum blends hands-on practice with theoretical knowledge, ensuring participants become skilled tailors ready to take on the world of garment creation.
At the end of the course, participants sit exams accredited by the Uganda Ministry of Education and Sports. Those who pass receive a nationally recognised certificate, a powerful credential that opens doors to employment or entrepreneurial opportunities.
Why is This Course So Important?
In many parts of Uganda, particularly in low-income areas, women face significant barriers to finding stable, well-paying jobs. This economic challenge often limits their ability to provide for their families, affecting access to education, healthcare, and basic necessities. The tailoring course tackles this head-on by equipping women with a marketable skill that can generate a sustainable income.
Research suggests that when women earn an income, they invest heavily in their families’ well-being. For example, the extra money from tailoring can cover school fees, medical expenses, and better nutrition, directly improving living standards. Beyond economics, tailoring is a creative and fulfilling craft that allows women to express themselves while building confidence and independence. It’s also a skill that can be passed down to future generations, creating a legacy of self-sufficiency.
The impact doesn’t stop at the individual level. By empowering women, the course strengthens entire communities. As families gain financial stability, local economies benefit, and children have better opportunities to thrive. It’s a ripple effect that can transform lives for years to come.
Comprehensive Support for Success
We don’t just teach tailoring and send participants on their way. We provide a holistic support system to ensure long-term success. After completing the course, graduates receive assistance with job applications, helping them secure employment in the tailoring industry. For those with entrepreneurial ambitions, Time to Help supplies materials to start their own businesses, such as fabric and tools, along with financial resources to get them off the ground.
The cost of supporting one woman through this journey is surprisingly affordable. For instance, £300 covers a three-month training term, including tuition and supplies. An additional £25 per week ensures each participant has transport and meals, removing barriers to attendance. And for £100, Time to Help UK can provide a sewing machine, giving a graduate the tools to launch her own tailoring business. These figures highlight how even small donations can make a significant impact.
A Collaborative Effort
The tailoring course is a collaborative project, with Time to Help UK partnering with organisations like Time to Help Netherlands and Nile Humanitarian Development Agency to deliver the program. The training takes place at a vocational training centre in Wakiso, where experienced instructors guide participants through a rigorous curriculum. The course runs five hours a day, weekdays, balancing practical sewing techniques with theoretical lessons on garment construction and design. This structured approach ensures participants gain a deep understanding of the craft, preparing them for real-world challenges.
How You Can Get Involved
If this initiative inspires you, there’s a way to get involved! Time to Help UK welcomes donations to keep the tailoring course running and to expand its reach. Your contribution could fund training for a woman, provide her with a sewing machine, or cover her daily expenses during the course. Every little bit helps, and together, we can support more women in building brighter futures for themselves and their families. Visit the donation page to learn more about how you can make a difference.
A Bright Future for Uganda’s Women
Time to Help’s tailoring course is a shining example of how education and skill-building can transform lives. By empowering women with the ability to earn a living, the program is not only changing individual trajectories but also uplifting entire communities. It’s a reminder that small, targeted interventions can have far-reaching impacts, especially when they prioritise empowerment and sustainability.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Wakiso, Uganda |
| Target Group | Low-income women and single mothers |
| Duration | Three terms, 240 hours per term |
| Participants per Term | 35 women |
| Certification | Nationally recognised by Uganda Ministry of Education and Sports |
| Support Provided | Job applications, business startup materials, financial resources |
| Cost Breakdown | £300 for training, £25/week for transport/meals, £100 for a sewing machine |
| Partners | Time to Help Netherlands, Nile Humanitarian Development Agency |
Until next time, stay inspired!