On Sunday, March 2, 2025, the OTTE AR Inspire Education program launched its first mentorship and empowerment meeting, bringing together 15 young people eager to navigate life beyond Senior Six. Held in partnership with Mavuno Christian Fellowship, which generously provided the venue, the gathering marked the beginning of a series of initiatives aimed at equipping young people with the skills, knowledge, and support necessary to achieve their full potential.
A Community in Transition
Among the attendees, 12 were Senior Six graduates—commonly referred to as “Vacists”—while the remaining three were volunteers of the OTTE AR Foundation in Uganda. For many, this period between completing secondary school and the next phase of their lives is filled with uncertainty. The meeting provided a platform for participants to share their experiences and express the challenges they face as they transition into adulthood.
One of the most pressing concerns raised was the economic burden placed on Vacists by their families. Many shared that their parents now considered them adults, expecting them to fend for themselves financially. However, with limited job opportunities, they found themselves struggling to secure employment.
Young women, in particular, highlighted the dangers of job-seeking, revealing instances of sexual exploitation in their pursuit of work. This underscored the urgent need for structured mentorship programs to guide them through this vulnerable period. Additionally, the participants expressed frustration over their lack of skills and startup capital, making it difficult for them to engage in meaningful activities during their long vacation, which extends until August 2025.
A Commitment to Mentorship and Skills Development
Recognizing these challenges, the OTTE AR Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to supporting these young individuals through mentorship, career guidance, and skills training. As a first step, participants filled out forms to provide insight into their specific needs, allowing the foundation to tailor its programs accordingly.
To ensure sustained support, the group agreed to hold monthly mentorship meetings complemented by skills training workshops. These initiatives will provide young people with practical tools, entrepreneurial knowledge, and emotional support to help them navigate this critical stage of their lives with confidence.
Looking Ahead
The OTTE AR Inspire Education program is more than just a meeting—it is a movement dedicated to transforming lives. By creating a safe and nurturing space, the foundation is empowering Tororo’s youth to take charge of their future and break the cycle of financial instability and exploitation.
As the initiative continues to grow, OTTEAR invites partners, mentors, and well-wishers to join in this mission. Together, we can equip young people with the skills and opportunities they need to become leaders, innovators, and change-makers in their communities.
Stay tuned for more updates on OTTE AR Inspire Education as we continue to build a brighter future—one mentorship session at a time.
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