the way you know how to play ukelele is by playing it.
most people don't take lessons
you would only need to sound it out.
taking lessons is for going professional, not starting out. It can be, but if it's for fun you don't really want lessons.
you could save money, or ask for it on christmas/cultural equivalent.
you could ask for it on your birthday.
though most likely you would have to promise that you are gonna play it.
but you don't need lessons to knead the dough of music.