Business School to launch another 'incubator' programme

Business School to launch another 'incubator' programme

HADTHIAH PD HAZAIR
BRUNEI-MUARA

Thursday, January 24, 2008

GRADUATES of vocational-technical education will have a chance to turn their skills into business ventures with the business coaching programme to be launched on Feb 4.

The Business School in Gadong is opening up its doors wider to its graduates who are interested in joining its business incubator programme.

"We've 'incubated' two enterprises so far ... The programme will help them to market this and become entrepreneurs," said the programme's training officer, Pg Hjh Norashikkin Pg Dr Hj Amir. The objective of the three-phase programme, she said, is not just to reduce unemployment, but more importantly, accelerate private sector growth in the country.

The two-week phase, which involves visits to the Registrar of Companies Department, the Municipal Board and a LiveWIRE workshop, will train participants on the basic skills in managing a business.

"We'll also invite young successful entrepreneurs ... to share their experience with the participants," Pg Hjh Noorashikkin said.

To give participants a hands-on experience on how it feels to run a business, the programme has scheduled "business for a day". The session will allow them to operate a retail stall to offer and market their goods and services.

Those who go on to the second and final phases will be given full support in running their business.

"We guide our students when they start up their own businesses and also regularly monitor their progress."

Graduates involved in the second phase of the programme will have the opportunity to learn how to draft a business plan. They may also be sent for commercial exposure to ready themselves before they embark on running their own businesses.

"We 'incubate' our graduate entrepreneurs for an average of two years. In which time, they will receive full support from us. We also help them source for financing through the micro-credit scheme so they are able to expand," the training officer said.

The Brunei Times