Turning dreams into reality—The story of Seemu

Before the intervention, many youths in Fort Portal faced unemployment and survived on odd jobs such as sand mining, pottery at construction sites, and brick laying. Seemu, a 24-year-old from Kantentebere Cell in Central Division, was among them. After completing S.4, he struggled to make ends meet through these low-paying activities, far from his dream of becoming an electrical engineer.

“I got stuck in the village admiring other people and prayed that someone would identify me,” Seemu recalls.

In 2022, he learned about the SkillUp! programme implemented by JESE with support from Welthungerhilfe. Out of 400 applicants, Seemu was among the 80 selected.

After six months of training (plus two additional months for advanced learners), Seemu gained hands-on experience by working in a local workshop for  7 more months  while saving startup capital for his own business. Upon graduation, Seemu received a start-up kit from JESE, including a welding machine, and continued working for seven months before venturing out independently.

In December 2023, Seemu established his own workshop in Kantentebere village, North division , Fort portal city. Starting with simple repairs, he gradually introduced higher-quality products to remain competitive. Today, he serves about five clients per month, earning UGX 1.5–2 million. His success has enabled him to acquire three plots of land worth UGX 34 million, purchase a motorbike, and support his siblings’ education.

Seemu now trains nine youth (including SkillUp! trainees), turning his workshop into a community training hub.

“My message to young people… be patient, focused, and avoid drugs. Opportunities come to those who are ready.” Seemu concludes.