Young Entrepreneurs in Teso Set to Benefit from Ateker AYE Symposium
By Peterson Hiirya.
Young entrepreneurs across Teso are gearing up for the Annual Arteker Young Entrepreneurship Symposium, organized by Lu Arteker Concepts, scheduled for May 9th at Soroti Secondary School.
Speaking ahead of the event, George Okoit, Executive Director of Lu Arteker Concepts, emphasized that the symposium is designed to empower youth with the knowledge and practical skills necessary for business success.
“Our mission is to encourage young people to develop themselves meaningfully within their communities. Knowledge is key—whether you’re starting a business or seeking to enhance your skills, passion, or qualifications,” he said.
The symposium aims to broaden the understanding of entrepreneurship beyond traditional business activities.
Young people will learn how personal skills such as MCing, photography, or DJing can be turned into viable businesses through effective marketing, branding, organization, and resilience. “This platform equips every entrepreneur, whether just starting out or seeking growth, with the knowledge to build sustainable enterprises,” Okoit explained.
Beyond individual business growth, the initiative tackles broader community challenges. Without opportunities for youth, issues such as poverty, domestic violence, early marriages, HIV, and crime can persist.
By providing avenues to learn and earn, the symposium seeks to foster a generation of change-makers contributing positively to Teso’s economy.
Key stakeholders, including URA, URSB, PPDA, and financial institutions, will share insights on business compliance, revenue management, and access to funding.
Past participants have reported that the skills and knowledge gained have helped them establish and expand businesses, creating meaningful impact in their communities.
This year’s keynote speaker is General J.J. Odongo, who brings a wealth of business and leadership experience, alongside Papa Emorimor, one of the region’s most respected entrepreneurs.
Attendance is free, with meals, certificates, and knowledge provided at no cost. Punctuality is emphasized, as gates will close at 9:00 AM sharp.
Mr. Ben Boham Okiror, representative of SOCADIDO and Coordinator of the ADEFO multi-actor partnership project, praised Lu Arteker Concepts for their role in economically empowering young people.
He highlighted that the project unites civil society, local entrepreneurs, government, academia, and professionals to support youth inclusion in Teso’s development.
The initiative also promotes agribusiness and the Farmpreneur Model, transforming subsistence farming into profitable commercial agriculture.
The symposium will inspire young farmers, provide critical skills, and create networking opportunities. Voice of Teso, the official media partner, will support promotion to ensure broad youth participation.
Ms. Sarah Asio, presenter and promotions manager at Voice of Teso, affirmed the station’s commitment: “We are committed to ensuring that information about this symposium reaches as many young people as possible.”
The Annual Arteker Young Entrepreneurship Symposium continues Lu Arteker Concepts’ mission to nurture Teso’s next generation of entrepreneurs, promoting economic empowerment, innovation, and sustainable community development.
