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Hello ,
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In collaboration with SNV as part of the YEE project, Jacana conducted an online pilot business training programme with nine youths across Zambia. This was the first time Jacana had delivered an online training programme.
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As a first step, Jacana conducted a short interview with each participant to find out what motivated them and what sort of business they wanted to start or expand.
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In total, the participants attended 10 two-hour sessions spread over four weeks. Days were set aside so that participants could complete and submit homework assignments for marking. The training took place via a live chat connection, which allowed for interaction between the trainer, Collins Musonda, and the participants, as well as amongst the participants themselves.
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By the end of the training course, every participant had drawn up their own Lean Canvas business plan and a cost-price calculation for the product or service they intend to sell.
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In the end, seven participants completed the course and received a certificate.
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“Much appreciation goes to SNV under YEE project through Jacana for organizing this online training which has been really interesting, motivating and very helpful to me. I have now realized why many businesses fail while others succeed and also the importance of financial plan and bookkeeping, to mention a few. From today onward, I shall be implementing them in my business. Looking forward to learning more as we also put them in practice and share the information we have learnt to others in order to succeed and develop our communities.” Reaction from one of the participants.
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Jacana has learnt a number of things from this pilot:
• 10 participants is the maximum for an interactive online training course.
• It is important that participants know how a mobile phone or computer works.
• Participants must be able to read and write in English.
• Participants must be motivated.
• A basic knowledge of arithmetic is required.
• Of course, a good internet connection is essential.
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Should you be interested in an online business training and you meet the requirements, please get in touch by replying to this newsletter.
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As part of the same SNV YEE projects, Jacana also carried out a number of other activities.
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For example, 70 youths received a partially sponsored portable solar pump. These youths are spread across the Eastern Province of Zambia. The youths received a discount coupon via SNV, which they could use to collect a portable solar pump from a local shop for a fee of K500 (25 euros). This is also the address where any repairs to the pump can be carried out. In this way, the shopkeeper generates income, and friends or acquaintances of the youths can also purchase a portable solar pump from the local shop.
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Another programme undertaken by Jacana involved business, financial and marketing training and mentoring a total of 140 youths, spread across Chipata and Petauke. This training took place at Jacana’s training centres.
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A total of 8 groups were formed. From each group, 2 ‘Champions’ were selected, who received additional guidance from Jacana to mentor up to 10 youths in setting up or expanding a business. Of the 140 participants, 119 young people obtained a certificate. Some young people dropped out for various reasons.
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Meeting with the Champions
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“Before this business training, I didn’t know anything about how to run my business but after the training, I know how to write and keep bookkeeping records. Furthermore, I started calculating cost pricing to my business and am really thankful for."
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“Before I started the business training by SNV through Jacana, I didn’t know my income and expenditures. But The Youth champion used to help me how to keep my records. I am thankful because I am now able to track my finances.”
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