A group, the Happy Hour Connect in conjunction with the Uyo Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mine and Agriculture (UYOCCIMA) has said it will launch the Akwa Ibom Youth Entrepreneurship Summit on July 15, 2023 in the state.
The initiative, targeting over 5,000 youths within the state and lasting for six months immediately after the summit is meant to build capacity among youths and bridge the gap between governance and the governed.
Speaking in a world press conference on Wednesday in Uyo, the Chairman of the group, Mrs Affiong Ibanga, expressed optimism that the initiative will complement the readiness of the state government to create jobs through the A.R.I.S.E agenda.
She stressed that successful applicants will be trained on verities of vocational skills including financial management, and digital marketing, among others.
“I am delighted to announce the upcoming Akwa Ibom Youth Entrepreneurship Summit, scheduled to take place on the 15th of July, 2023, at Watbridge Hotel in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
“Under the theme “Empowering Youths through Strategic Planning,” this summit aims to encourage an entrepreneurial mindset that will create jobs and build a productive community.
“We’re bridging the gap between governance and the governed. It’s a collective synergy that will bring ideas to bear! We are here to work in line with the A.R.I.S.E agenda and deliver an Akwa Ibom State that we all yearn for.
“The focus areas of this summit will encompass various aspects crucial for entrepreneurial success. We will explore strategic planning, highlighting the importance of setting clear goals, identifying opportunities, and developing effective strategies to achieve business objectives.
“Additionally, we will delve into topics such as financial management, digital marketing, and access to funding, providing participants with practical insights and actionable steps to enhance their entrepreneurial journey,” she added
Mrs. Ibanga hinted that the organisation has established a relationship with some financial institutions including the Bank of Industry (BOI) to provide funding through soft loans to the trainees.
She admonished all young persons who aspire to become successful entrepreneurs, business owners, or industry leaders to seize the opportunity to become employers of labour.
