By: Lebohang Maluke

MASERU

IBC College is committed to empowering its students beyond academics. Recognising the critical need for entrepreneurial skills in today’s dynamic job market, the college has partnered with renowned Entrepreneurship Expert Facilitator, Mr. Paseka Ramokoatsi, better known as Mr. PDOLLAR, to deliver a comprehensive entrepreneurship course to its final-year students.

This initiative, spearheaded by Marketing and Public Relations Officer Mr. Potlaki Mokhobatau, aims to equip students with a deeper understanding of business principles and foster a mindset of innovation and growth. Mr. Mokhobatau highlights, “the importance of equipping students with the necessary tools and knowledge to become job creators rather than job seekers.”

They believe in nurturing a generation of individuals who can not only contribute to the economy but also uplift their communities and families.

The entrepreneurship course, which commenced last year on November 19th and 20th, has already yielded positive results. Ms. ‘Matlalane Kobeli, a final-year student, testifies to the transformative impact of the program. “This course has opened my mind to the possibilities of entrepreneurship,” she shared.

“It has ignited our creativity and encouraged to think outside the box. Some of my fellow students have already taken the leap and started their own businesses, while others have gained a deeper understanding of the challenges facing the Lesotho economy and identified potential solutions.”

Key Focus Areas of the Entrepreneurship Course:

The course instils a proactive and entrepreneurial mindset, encouraging students to identify opportunities, assess risks, and develop innovative solutions.

Students gain valuable insights into market research, financial planning, business plans, and business strategy development. They learn how to analyse market trends, identify target audiences, and develop effective marketing and sales strategies.

The program focuses on developing critical skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, communication, teamwork, and leadership. These skills are invaluable not only for entrepreneurship but also for personal and professional growth.

The course encourages students to apply their learning to address real-world challenges, such as unemployment and poverty, by developing innovative business ideas that can create jobs and contribute to economic development.

By providing a platform for students to share their ideas, receive feedback, and network with other aspiring entrepreneurs, the program fosters a culture of innovation and creativity.

The collaboration with Mr. PDOLLAR brings invaluable expertise and real-world experience to the program. As a seasoned entrepreneurship facilitator Mr. PDOLLAR provides students with practical insights and valuable guidance. His hands-on approach and engaging teaching style make the learning experience both informative and inspiring.

The entrepreneurship course at IBC College is not merely an academic exercise; it has the potential to transform the lives of students and contribute significantly to the economic growth of Lesotho. By empowering students to become job creators, the program addresses the pressing issue of unemployment and fosters a more self-reliant and entrepreneurial society.

IBC College’s initiative to integrate entrepreneurship education into its curriculum demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to education. By partnering with experienced professionals like Mr. PDOLLAR, the college is providing its students with the necessary tools and knowledge to succeed in today’s competitive business environment. As the program continues to evolve, it is expected to play a crucial role in nurturing a new generation of entrepreneurs who will drive innovation and economic growth in Lesotho.