By Benjamin Jumbe
Government is considering introduction of cooperatives as an independent subject in the school curriculum.
This is in a bid to interest and improve awareness of Ugandans about cooperatives.
Speaking ahead of the international cooperative day slated for July 7th, the state minister for cooperatives Frederick Gume says with a special subject on cooperatives introduced the young generation will be able to appreciate their importance in the country’s growth.
Gume reveals that the ministry is also planning to upgrade the cooperatives colleges in Kigumba and Tororo to start offering degree courses.
He also notes that over Shs13bn has been spent in compensating cooperatives around the country and so far 8 have benefited. The total budget estimated to cover the compensation mounts to Shs140bn.
In a related development the government has confirmed that plans are under way to revive the defunct cooperative bank.
Minister Gume says the bank will provide soft and affordable loans to farmers which cannot be offered by the current commercial banks, adding that consultations are already under way.
Uganda has 15,000 registered cooperatives dealing in various activities like, transport, agricultural marketing, diary and fishing, among others.
The 96th International Co-operative Day will be hosted by WALIMU Saccos Union at the Civil Service College in Jinja.
