In an bid to ensure that Ugandans are equipped with knowledge and skills on how to prepare for old age, President Yoweri Museveni has asked the Ministry of Education to integrate issues of ageing in the training curriculum at all levels of learning.

President Museveni's request was contained in a speech read by the Third Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Kirunda Kivejinja, during the commemoration of the International Day for Older Persons held at Kitatya P.S, Wabwoko Sub-county in Kayunga District on Wednesday.

"To be able to prepare for their old age, the youth should develop a culture of saving and having a positive lifestyle," President Museveni said.

During the celebrations which were marked under the theme, "Ageing with security and dignity", a number of older persons among them MP Cecilia Ogwal, Mr Kirunda Kivejinja, Ms Rafayirina Nakabuubi, a radio presenter and 13 others were recognised for their contribution towards the development of the country.

The President also said the government intends to start a social grant scheme through the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development as an alternative social protection intervention geared towards addressing chronic poverty, targeting older persons, orphans and other vulnerable people.

President Museveni said only 7.1 per cent of the older persons have access to pension, of whom 60 per cent are males. He said this leaves older persons working in the agricultural sector which is still predominantly subsistence and characterised by fluctuations in produce prices and irregular income.