Uganda - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Campus CONNECT is an Online media platform that avails students in Universities and the youth across the country an opportunity to grow their social networks and also get access to opportunities(Jobs, internships, remote jobs, mentorship programs) easily.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Just like LinkedIn and very may other Online platforms that offer the world an opportunity to get access to jobs(remote and physical), mentorship programs and different career conferences. Campus CONNECT is also just like those platforms but the only difference is that it is majorly concentrated on the YOUTH and the students in Higher Institutions of learning. We are here, first of all to inter-link the youth around Uganda through their respective Institutions of higher learning and their various disciplines hence making sure they grow their social networks (capital). Secondly, this project is out to ensure that we bring closer genuine and authentic opportunities to the youth in Uganda through (Mentorship programs, Jobs( physical and remote), Resources inform of Educational/Career conferences). In so doing we are looking forward to ensuring that the youth get access to these opportunities in one place equally without any sort of discriminations. Hence sustaining the future generation.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

The main problem I am trying to solve is unevenly distributed opportunities among the young generation, which has lead to poverty and rise in crime in our nation. There are very many youths out here in Uganda that went to school studied certain disciplines but were never given access to an opportunity to do what exactly their discipline demands them to do. Hence time wasted and destinies shattered simply because they never had access to the opportunities that were out there lingering but because of ignorance. They never had the chance to meet them. We all know that if there is anything that can curb poverty is having a wide network of social capital, because in this world you can not develop and grow on your own without the help of others. We all need men around us in which ever way. Men carry ideas just like this IDEA I presenting, but if I did not have access to it through my NIGERIAN classmate that shared it with me it would have been close to impossible. But look at me now.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

Opening up an account with Campus CONNECT means opening yourself up to the world of genuine and authentic opportunities(Scholarships across the globe, mentorship programs, jobs(physical and remote), Internships, Volunteering .....). Growing your social networks, on this platform students from all higher education institutions across Uganda will be able to reach out to one another for example Law students from Makerere, KIU and UCU can be able to link up and prepare educative programs or even get togethers according to their discipline. The potential employers will be given a platform that can help them get the suitable candidates for certain job opportunities that are available to them that is to say through career programs, internships and volunteering. Non Governmental Organizations that are interested in the youth will now have a platform of getting to them easily without straining hence saving time on their side but then also getting access to the right people without compromise.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

My project is directly aimed at serving majorly the YOUTH in our nation. It is the reason as to why I named it Campus CONNECT, simply because the biggest number of the youth are in higher institutions of learning in the nation. This is a rate determining step for their lives because it is the level where they are being bridged from one stage of life to another. If they are not given the right opportunities trust me they then miss it. The targeted beneficiaries of this project are youth in Universities/Institutes, those that have just graduated and are finding hardships getting to opportunities. The Ladies in our nation are found of being undermined and left out. So due to authenticity which is one of the core values of our platform they will not be left out.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-03-05

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

7

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

2

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

Name: Muwanguzi Samuel Institution: Makerere University Discipline: Bachelor of Science In Computer Science Status; Student Name: Busuulwa Jordan Institution: Makerere University Discipline: Bachelor of Science In Computer Science Status: Student Name: Namuyomba Sylvia Institution: Kyambogo University Discipline: Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering Status: Student Name: Lawal Idris Bagiwa Experience: Ph.D In Computer Science, Lecturer at University of the People. Name: Budala Edmund Institution: Mbarara University of Science and Technology Discipline: Software Engineering Status: Student Name: Oluwatoyin Adebayo Skills: Content Creation, Videography, Video Editing, Idea Generation and Community Management. Experience: 3 years + Name: Namugga Sharifa Institution: Mbarara University of Science and Technology Discipline: Software Engineering Status: Student

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

i) Communication services (telecommunications, media, interactive services)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

As far as my project is concerned - The No Poverty Goal directly lies in our jurisdiction because when we start looking at the number of the Youths in Our nation that have really had the chance or Opportunity to go to school and have failed out on developing their careers or even failing out on being positioned in the disciplines they were disciplined into during their stay in school. That alone comes with very many things that is to say; Loss of hope due to the lack of opportunities to work or even have access to further education through scholarships and also fail out on the job requirements nowadays inform of experience which they could have developed during mentorship and volunteering programs . Campus CONNECT comes with opportunities that are not only realistic but also authentic and of a certain degree of integrity. Here the youth's hope will have been revived hence carrying a certain level of hope and positive mindset towards life that actually things are possible. (No poverty)

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

While Campus CONNECT may not directly address food security issues, it contributes to the Zero Hunger Goal indirectly through several mechanisms that enhance economic stability and community support that is to say: Campus CONNECT can feature opportunities specifically in the agricultural sector, such as internships, jobs, and mentorship programs in agriculture, agribusiness, and food technology. By promoting careers in agriculture, the platform supports the growth of the food production sector, which is essential for food security. The platform can highlight innovations and startups in agri-tech, providing students and young professionals with information on how to get involved in these areas. Innovations in agriculture technology can lead to more efficient food production, better resource management, and reduced food waste, all of which contribute to food security.

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

5

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Since my project is in the communications and media sector. Allow me justify its contribution to the good health and well being Sustainable development goal this way. Every year the Uganda Dental Association (UDA) in partnership with the Makerere University Dental Hospital hold health camps where they offer free and quality dental services to which ever person that presents themselves at the Institution in Makerere on the set dates. How many youths out there are in extreme pain due to dental complications but they can not afford the services. Such opportunities are always available but simply because they are only advertised in the University Campus other youths out there from the other institution will never get to know about them. With the emergence of platforms like Campus CONNECT such awesome initiatives are always going to be advertised on the platform such that the youth of our generation gain access to them without fail. Hence promoting good health and well being of the next gen

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

With Campus CONNECT access to quality and affordable education is inevitable. Someone just has to open up an account with us. With an account, just like people have accounts with Facebook, Whatsapp and Tiktok someone will have a full and an unconditioned access to all the opportunities that have been set to display on our platform in form of Scholarships, mentorship program, career guidance by professionals, internships from reputable institutions and very many other educative conferences that have been organized with an agenda of adding to the people of the next generation. People will have access to the privilege of getting into contact with the people they are studying the same discipline for example the law students will have a privilege of sharing knowledge with other law students in the law forum. That will apply to all other disciplines that there is. Hence people gaining access to a lot of knowledge about certain topics and there in being better at their craft every other day.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Campus CONNECT can contribute significantly to achieving Gender Equality goal by creating an inclusive platform that promotes equal opportunities for all genders. Here’s how: Ensuring that opportunities are accessible to all genders by promoting gender-neutral job descriptions and encouraging companies to adopt inclusive hiring practices. Highlighting scholarships and grants specifically aimed at supporting women in education and professional development given there mere fact that in our societies they tend to be undermined as compared to the men. Monitoring the gender distribution of users, job placements, and mentorship matches to ensure that the platform is serving all genders equitably. Regularly collect feedback from users about their experiences and use this data to make continuous improvements to promote gender equality.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

5

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

While Campus CONNECT may not directly address water and sanitation issues, it can contribute to Clean Water and Sanitation through several indirect yet impactful strategies that is to say; Campus CONNECT can provide educational content on the importance of clean water and sanitation, promoting awareness among the Youth. We can also offer or promote courses, webinars, and workshops on water conservation, sanitation practices, and sustainable water management. Campus CONNECT can contribute to Clean Water and Sanitation by raising awareness, supporting relevant careers, promoting research and innovation, engaging in community and volunteer efforts, advocating for better policies, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. These indirect contributions help equip students and young professionals with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to address water and sanitation challenges

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

5

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Campus CONNECT can contribute to Affordable and Clean Energy in several impactful ways, even if it is not directly involved in energy production or distribution. For example; Connecting students with professionals working in the clean energy sector to guide them in their career paths and foster interest in sustainable energy solutions through our mentorship Forum.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

Certainly! Campus CONNECT can contribute to Decent Work and Economic Growth in several significant ways like; By providing a platform for students and young professionals(youth) to access job opportunities, internships, and remote work options, We facilitate the transition from education to employment. Mentorship programs offered through the platform help individuals navigate their career paths, develop skills, and make informed decisions about their professional futures.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

5

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Campus CONNECT can contribute to Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure by promoting innovation, supporting sustainable industrial development, and enhancing digital and physical infrastructure among the youth that is to say; Offering training and educational resources that equip users with the skills needed for jobs in emerging and sustainable industries, such as renewable energy, green technology, and digital innovation. Collaborating with industries to create internship and job opportunities that focus on sustainable practices and technologies, promoting responsible industrial growth.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Campus CONNECT aligns with the Reduced Inequalities Sustainable Development Goal by promoting inclusivity, equal access to opportunities, and supporting marginalized or disadvantaged groups, for example: The platform provides equal access to job listings, internships, and remote work opportunities, regardless of socioeconomic background, ethnicity, gender, or disability. Through highlighting the scholarships and educational grants we end up supporting access to higher education for underrepresented groups hence reducing disparities in educational attainment.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Campus CONNECT can contribute to Sustainable Cities and Communities by promoting sustainable development practices, enhancing community engagement, and supporting urban and rural development in various ways like; Providing information on sustainable living practices, including energy efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable transportation options through adverts, articles and journals that are ran on the platform. Hosting events focused on sustainable lifestyles and urban planning to educate users on how to contribute to sustainable cities and communities both virtually and physically.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

5

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Campus CONNECT is a platform that can support responsible consumption and production by creating awareness through advertising of conferences that have been put in place with a motive of educating the nation as far as responsible consumption and production is important and also show or reveal to them the goodness of circular economy.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

6

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

As far as Climate change and its impacts are concerned, Campus CONNECT is a platform that can be relied on as far as educating the young generation that is totally green as far as climate change and the impacts are concerned. This can be attained through passing on of adverts that are then run by the team on the platform creating an awareness, running different articles on the platform that are directed towards educating the young generation on the reasons as to why they should embrace climatic change advocacy as something very important.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

5

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Campus CONNECT can contribute to Life Below Water through raising awareness, promoting conservation efforts, and supporting initiatives that protect marine ecosystems and biodiversity among the youth by providing information on marine biodiversity, ocean conservation, and the impacts of human activities on marine ecosystems through articles, webinars, and educational campaigns.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

5

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Connecting our users with volunteer opportunities focused on biodiversity monitoring, habitat restoration, and wildlife conservation efforts. Supporting and promoting student-led projects and campaigns that raise awareness about local biodiversity conservation issues and advocate for sustainable practices through giving them the platform.

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Supporting capacity-building initiatives for governmental and non-governmental institutions to strengthen their ability to uphold rule of law, human rights, and democratic governance. Fostering partnerships with universities, governmental agencies, and civil society organizations to promote good governance and institutional transparency.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Connecting the youth, universities, NGOs, and businesses to foster collaborations on sustainable development projects and initiatives. Facilitating dialogues and partnerships among diverse stakeholders to address complex challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality.

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

3

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

3

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

2

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.08 Justification

When you look around the online world there are very many products that offer the service that the product I have envisioned creating offers e.g LinkedIn and very many other websites out there. My project idea is unique and innovative in away that when you take a keen look out there to most of those platforms that are offering the similar services like I am going to be offering

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

Just like LinkedIn and very may other Online platforms that offer the world an opportunity to get access to jobs(remote and physical), mentorship programs and different career conferences. Campus CONNECT is also just like those platforms but the only difference is that it is majorly concentrated on the YOUTH and the students in Higher Institutions of learning. We are here, first of all to inter-link the youth around Uganda through their respective Institutions of higher learning and their various disciplines hence making sure they grow their social networks (capital). Secondly, this project is out to ensure that we bring closer genuine and authentic opportunities to the youth in Uganda through (Mentorship programs, Jobs( physical and remote), Resources inform of Educational/Career conferences). In so doing we are looking forward to ensuring that the youth get access to these opportunities in one place equally without any sort of discriminations. Hence sustaining the future generation.

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

Yes I am, well when I saw the talent that my elder sister possesses as far as weaving crotchets and other artistic crafts is concerned. I there and then encouraged her to not be self fish with her skill but also find other ladies and teach them which she did and now has a small group called KUSAASIRA CROTCHETS. they are making these crafts and selling them for a living I also encouraged her to find a way of being part of the NSSF Hi-innovator challenge.