Lira, Uganda – Uganda Technical College (UTC)-Lira is gearing up for its 5th Talent Search event on Saturday November 16, 2024, with a focus on promoting health awareness and highlighting the skills of young people in Lira.
Organized by the Guild Government of UTC-Lira, this year’s event is themed “Empowering the Youth for a Better Tomorrow through Talent Search,” complementing UNESCO’s theme, “Empowering Young People in Higher and Tertiary Institutions to Uphold Health Concerns.”
Drawing an anticipated 2,000-3,000 attendees, the Talent Search welcomes participants from various institutions, including Lira University, Victoria School of Nursing, Uganda Christian Institute (UCI), King James School of Nursing, Good Samaritan School of Nursing, Jerusalem Institute of Health Sciences, National Instructors College Abilonino, and Uganda Martyrs University.
Contestants will compete in categories such as D-Jaying, rapping, modelling, debating, poetry, and public speaking, among others.
Each institution may nominate two participants per category, while UTC-Lira will field three competitors, ensuring a rich display of talent.
Guild Speaker Odongo Aaron emphasized that the event is committed to inclusivity, encouraging participation by people with disabilities, with judging handled by independent, external judges to maintain fairness.
Health education will play a central role in the event, with sessions addressing HIV/AIDS awareness, mental health, and wellness.
These workshops aim to promote healthy lifestyle choices among the youth and align with the event’s overarching health-conscious theme.
With sponsorship from local businesses like City Sounds, QFM 94.3, and the Rotary Club, the event will be hosted in UTC-Lira’s Main Hall, complete with security provided by bouncers and local law enforcement officers to ensure a peaceful setting.
“Attendance will be limited to students to foster a safe and focused atmosphere,” said Guild President Jennifer.
For those unable to attend in person, the event will be streamed live on YouTube, allowing a wider audience to engage with the performances and health initiatives.
Prizes will be awarded to the most outstanding participants, with a focus on meaningful rewards.
Health precautions will also be observed, including the use of soft foods in the eating contest to ensure participant safety.
UTC-Lira’s Talent Search celebrates the skills and creativity of the youth while encouraging them to become empowered and health-conscious leaders of tomorrow.