Ignite Change Institute Empowers Vulnerable Residents Through Graduation Training

23 August 2026, 8:33 pm

By Eman Yonah Oruk

Two hundred and Six vulnerable residents from six community groups in Akaka and Wirao parishes, Aber Sub-county, graduated on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Oyoe Primary School.

The graduation followed Six months of training under the Raise Above Poverty (RAP) program implemented by Ignite Change Vocational Institute.

The training covered Biblical foundations, financial literacy, entrepreneurial skills, and life skills in business operation and management.

The graduates represented groups including Kica Arwot, Par Pi Diki, Oryem Can, Bed Imar, Koda Wek Awoti, and Obanga Omaro Wa.

Program Manager Normmy Otyeno emphasized that Ignite Change values the sustainability of groups rather than numbers, focusing on reaching rightful beneficiaries at grassroots levels. He noted that groups established in 2019 are still thriving with success stories in health, education, and community livelihood.

Otyeno stressed that Ignite Change does not give handouts but supports community ideas, including widows, persons with disabilities, elders, and caregivers, with widows forming the majority of graduates.

Program Assistant Sam Odong appreciated the community’s commitment, expressing hope that beneficiaries will stand independently due to the training received. He pledged continued monitoring and encouraged graduates to remain in groups for proper planning, highlighting the team spirit built through the program.

The Community Development Officer of Aber Sub-county praised the Ugandan government for allowing NGOs to operate, acknowledging Ignite Change’s contribution to his office. He assured that the sustainability plan ensures groups will remain strong even if Ignite Change steps away.

LC3 Chairperson France Angora expressed excitement over the training, urging residents to embrace education and apply their knowledge to improve livelihoods through saving.

Executive Director Emily Jones commended the vulnerable community for completing the program, pledging that Ignite Change will continue transforming livelihoods. She encouraged graduates to use their knowledge to move from poverty to better living standards.

Graduates shared testimonies of transformation. Albina Akello, a 76-year-old woman, said the training enabled her to construct a bathing shelter, improving her life significantly.

Meri Felix, a youth from Wirao Parish, testified that Ignite Change lifted him from poverty, taught him about God and business, and helped him start a poultry farm.

This graduation reflects Ignite Change’s mission of equipping communities with practical skills, fostering independence, and promoting sustainable development across Oyam District.