Through our 2022 Alumni Survey, a significant proportion of our graduates reported an interest in gaining business skills to assist them in starting their own full-time business or a side hustle business in addition to their primary sources of income. We started a Small Business Management Training Program earlier this year to train our graduates how to plan, establish, comply with local authorities, and run a profitable business.
The training was divided into two phases: the introductory phase and the main training phase.
- 34 alumni attended the introductory phase (Introduction to Small Business and Taxation)
- 20 qualified to proceed to the second phase (Small Business Management Training)
- 10 completed both phases and graduated with a certificate and toolkit to start or grow their existing business.
The 10-week training took place in the Elimu Hub on our campus. It was facilitated by Be The Leader (BTL), an employability and job preparedness training organization. They are well qualified to provide training on employability, career development, leadership, entrepreneurship, and other topics to Kenyan youths.
The Small Business Management Training Program provided our alumni with a comprehensive understanding of business concepts, strategies, and practices. They learned about the importance of financial management, business ideas, and market research. The program also taught them how to create a comprehensive business plan, identify opportunities for innovation, and evaluate the feasibility of their business ideas. Financial management concepts were covered, including revenue, costs, profit, and cash flow. They were introduced to different funding options and legal structures for startups, such as sole proprietorship, partnership, and incorporation. Risk management was also covered, identifying potential threats and addressing them.
The training program had a significant impact on the trainees, enhancing their knowledge and skills, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, and enabling them to develop and refine business ideas. The program also fostered confidence and motivation in the trainees, empowering them to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations.
The graduation ceremony marked the end of the training program. They received a toolkit essential for their respective businesses and certificates, marking the beginning of a new chapter for their businesses.
Our Small Business Management Training Program saw dedicated alumni graduate with essential skills and tools to kickstart their entrepreneurial journey. This not only helps them transform their lives but also empowers the next generation of entrepreneurs!