We have been running a pilot project for training new entrepreneurs in Burundi together with Fida International and its local operators. During 2020 and 2021 we have trained 5 + 20 + 12 students on NEBA’s Online Business Startup training courses. New businesses have started, and some are still on the process to start.
The second step in our long-term strategy was to provide Pedagogical Training for new teachers. The trained teachers will then run the training programs for new entrepreneurs. So far NEBA has provided online training with some tutoring. In the future, we can provide blended learning, NEBA-online Business startup training together with some traditional classroom training done by trained teachers.
This TTT training consisted of topics like: What is pedagogy, Adult education principles, What is learning and how to improve learning, Key-qualifications and how to improve them. The aim was to focus to train entrepreneurs in entrepreneurial way. During the training we tried to open the difference of traditional training pedagogy and entrepreneurial way of learning.
All 12 students were motivated and took actively part to discussions and groupworks during the first three days. We will follow up the teachers progress by having two other training days after the teaching activity of the trained teachers.
We are looking forward to seeing how this model will be multiplied into neighboring countries as well as within Burundi. Now we are starting new Business Startup training for 3 x 20 new students in six weeks training course. Next year the plan is to train 200 students more. All this with local trained teachers using NEBA Online Business Startup training. This has been possible because the local leaders have been working diligently and actively to facilitate the training. Without Fida staff’s efforts this would not have been possible.
By training and helping the local teachers to become experts in entrepreneurial pedagogy, we do believe we can build up and support a local economy and educational development leading to better future for many.
Mr. Jouni Suonpää
The Founder and Chairman of NEBA (North European Business Academy)