By Nathan Eyagu 

Soroti City was buzzing with excitement as Junior Achievement Uganda held its first-ever boot camp in the Teso sub-region. From September 3rd to 6th, Paxland transformed into a hub of innovation, hosting students from institutions such as UMCAT School of Journalism, Horizon Institute, Kyambogo University Soroti, and more.

This dynamic four-day event, part of the Junior Achievement Social Equity Program funded by the Zurich Foundation, aimed to inspire and equip young people with entrepreneurship skills.

“It’s our first time in Teso, and it’s been an incredible experience,” said Noah Omuya, Junior Achievement Uganda’s Communication Officer. “The enthusiasm from the youth here is beyond what we imagined. They’re hungry to learn, grow, and take control of their futures.”

The Junior Achievement Social Equity Program isn’t just about teaching theory—it’s about sparking real change. Focused on start-ups, business management, planning, and problem-solving, the boot camp is designed to give young people the tools they need to become job creators. No more waiting for jobs—these youth are learning to build their own businesses from the ground up.

“This year, we’re expanding to more regions like Mbarara, Gulu, Masaka, and Lira,” Omuya explained. “Our goal is to impact over 20,000 Ugandan youth by the end of this year, and 50,000 by the end of our three-year partnership with Zurich Foundation. We’re shaping the future.”

Over the four days in Soroti, students dove into workshops and discussions on entrepreneurship. But the real magic happened on the final day, when participants pitched their business ideas, detailing the problems they aimed to solve and how their solutions would impact their communities.

“The energy during the pitches was electric,” Omuya shared. “These young entrepreneurs have bold ideas, and they’re ready to turn them into reality.”

The excitement doesn’t stop at Paxland. Junior Achievement Uganda will continue mentoring the young entrepreneurs through weekly virtual sessions every Thursday, helping them refine their ideas and prepare for the next big event—the final competition in Kampala. Set for November or December, this competition will bring together the best teams from across Uganda to compete for a chance to represent the country at the Africa level.

“The winner doesn’t just get a trophy,” Omuya teased. “They’ll gain opportunities for internships, recognition, and connections with global platforms like the Career Merchant Program. We’re setting them up for long-term success.”

The boot camp earned high praise from local leaders, including Joseph Ojatum, Deputy Tourism Minister and Documentation Officer of the Iteso Cultural Union. Ojatum applauded Junior Achievement Uganda for giving Teso’s youth the skills and mindset to thrive in business.

“This initiative is game-changing,” Ojatum said. “It’s transforming the way young people in Teso think about entrepreneurship and their future. If they embrace this knowledge, we’re looking at a brighter future for the entire region.”

The impact of the boot camp was undeniable. Participants expressed their gratitude for the hands-on training, practical advice, and mentorship that will guide them long after the event.

“This boot camp has completely changed my mindset,” one participant shared. “I now believe I can create my own business and succeed.”

As Junior Achievement Uganda continues to spread its impact, the youth of Teso—and Uganda as a whole—are stepping into a future filled with opportunity and promise. This is just the beginning of their entrepreneurial journey, and the future looks brighter than ever.