Panel discussion on opportunities and bottlenecks of youth Entrepreneurships journey In SWER, especially Kaffa zone

Objective of the panel discussion held during Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) was to explore the various opportunities and challenges affecting the entrepreneurial journey in the Southwest Ethiopian Region (SWER), specifically within the Kaffa Zone. By bringing together scholars, government officials from Bonga University, regional labor and industry representatives, and leaders from successful enterprises, the discussion aimed to identify key barriers to entrepreneurship, such as access to funding, skill gaps, and regulatory hurdles. Additionally, it highlighted available resources and support structures to foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. The outcomes of the discussion revealed a consensus on several actionable ideas and directions for improvement. Participants emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between academic institutions and local enterprises to better align educational programs with market demands. They proposed life skills training programs to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with essential business acumen. Notably, the dialogue underscored the importance of government policies that prioritize support for startups and small businesses. Participants left with a renewed commitment to creating a supportive environment for entrepreneurship in the region, recognizing that sustained collaboration among stakeholders is crucial for overcoming existing challenges and unlocking the full entrepreneurial potential within SWER.