Uganda has a large number of orphans, with an estimated 2 million children having lost one or both parents, representing about 11–12% of all children. HIV/AIDS, especially during the 1980–2000 period, was a major cause, along with other diseases, poverty, limited access to healthcare, and armed conflicts.

The Teso sub-region has poverty and HIV prevalence levels above the national average. More than half of the population lives in multidimensional poverty, and social challenges remain high. This combination results in a high number of orphans and other vulnerable children in the region.

The Ugandan government mainly plays a regulatory and policy role and offers limited direct support to orphans and vulnerable children. As a result, these youths depend largely on NGOs, faith-based organizations, and community-based initiatives for support.

ECO fills an important gap by supporting not only young children but also adolescents, a group often overlooked once they reach the age of 15–19, when many international support programs end. This project addresses that critical transition period to adulthood.

ECO was founded in 2018 and works in collaboration with schools and local partners to provide educational, developmental, and social support to vulnerable children and adolescents. Its focus is on education, skills development, and emotional support.

Since 2018, ECO has supported 4,032 orphans and vulnerable children and collaborates with more than 50 schools. The organization uses play and group activities for younger children and focuses on vocational and life skills training for adolescents

During the first nine months, 30 orphans will participate in vocational training through apprenticeships. In partnership with the national program “Skilling Uganda,” participants will choose one of five trades: tailoring, baking and pastry, hairdressing/beauty, motorcycle mechanics, or masonry and concrete construction.

After completing the training, participants will receive certificates, starter tool kits, and three months of coaching to find employment or start small businesses. It is expected that about two-thirds will become self-employed and one-third will find jobs in the private sector.

The project will enable 30 adolescents to acquire sustainable livelihood skills and become economically self-reliant. Local artisans and businesses will also gain experience in mentoring vulnerable youths, strengthening community capacity.

Graduates will be encouraged to join Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), enabling them to save, access small loans, and invest in local enterprises, contributing to the sustainability of the village economy.

The project will run for one year, with nine months of training followed by three months of coaching and business or job placement support. Participants will receive starter tool kits upon completion.

Total project costs are UGX 20,869,000. ECO will contribute UGX 3,091,000 for selection, compensation, and monitoring of master artisans. External funding of UGX 17,778,000 is required to implement the apprenticeships and provide the tool kits.