Forty student-entrepreneurs from across Nigeria’s South East region have received ₦100,000 each in business funding at the 2025 South East Students Entrepreneurship and Innovation (SESEI) Conference, held at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. The ₦4 million disbursement was made possible through the support of the Humanitarian Achievement and Outreach Foundation.
The conference, which brought together over 600 young innovators, provided a platform for inspiration, learning, and direct support. It attracted a diverse mix of student entrepreneurs, startup founders, development partners, and industry leaders, all united by a common goal—youth-led innovation for economic transformation.
Organized by the Humanitarian Achievement and Outreach Foundation and convened by its founder, Mr. Emmanuel Anabueze, the SESEI Conference is fast becoming a landmark event for student-led entrepreneurship in the region. In his address, Anabueze described SESEI as a platform designed to identify, empower, and elevate the next generation of changemakers.
“We’re not just funding ideas,” he said. “We’re investing in the minds behind those ideas. This is about igniting transformation at the grassroots by believing in the creativity and resilience of young people.”
The Foundation stated that the funding is only the beginning of a broader strategy to provide student innovators with continued access to mentorship, networks, and capital, crucial elements for long-term enterprise success.
Speakers at the event emphasized innovation, values, and community impact. Orjinta Nnaemeka Orji challenged students to embrace emerging technologies, especially Artificial Intelligence (AI), as tools for building resilient, future-ready ventures. Arnold Ekweoba, an entrepreneur, urged attendees to lead with integrity and build businesses that leave meaningful impact.
The conference also featured keynote addresses from notable professionals. Dr. Sammy Adrian Ajufo spoke on the influence of media in shaping brand identity and market visibility for startups, while Mrs. Rosemary Ezeani of the Oluebube Charity Foundation encouraged students to root their ventures in value, vision, and service to their communities.
For many participants, the conference was more than just an event—it was a turning point. Chukwuemeka, a final-year student and grant recipient, said the experience gave him the clarity and courage to turn his business idea into something real. Another attendee, Amaka, described the gathering as “hopeful and empowering,” noting that she had never witnessed a student-focused programme of such scale and impact.
With its strong focus on empowerment, access, and opportunity, the SESEI Conference 2025 has reaffirmed the power of youth entrepreneurship to drive sustainable development. As the Foundation looks ahead to deeper interventions, the goal remains clear: build a pipeline of student innovators who are ready to solve local problems, create jobs, and contribute to Africa’s economic future.
