Zetech University has trained more than 200 boda-boda operators from Witeithie Ward, Juja sub-county on financial management, customer service and business management.
The training according to the varsity Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academics, Research and Student Affairs, Prof. Alice Njuguna, is meant to equip the riders with crucial skills in financial management, excellent customer service and identification of opportunities to grow their businesses.
The training, which took place at the Zetech University Technology Park in Mang’u was facilitated by the School of Business and Economics, officials from the Kenya Revenue Authority and the Juja Traffic Police is part of the University’s Community Outreach activities to celebrate 25 Years of Scholarly Excellence.
Prof. Njuguna noted that the initiative is geared towards enabling players in the boda-boda sector make a decent living as well as explore other business opportunities. She revealed that in coming months the initiative will be spread to other riders within Ruiru and Juja constituencies.
The don averred that universities and other higher learning institutions in the country need to use their resources to cultivate cordial relationships with the community in ways that contribute positively and address the community’s needs and concerns.
“Data from the Motorcycle Assembly Association of Kenya shows that the motorcycle (boda-boda) business in Kenya generates about Ksh 400 million daily, which translates to 3.4 per cent of Kenya’s GDP. These sector plays a pivotal role in growing the economy even at the grass-root levels and hence the need to support them with relevant knowledge and skills that will promote their business,” Prof. Njuguna said.
Prof. Njuguna also indicated that they will be exploring other forms of training that they can impart to the riders citing financial literacy to enable them prudently manage their finances which will in turn facilitate their growth economically.
“It is therefore crucial for stakeholders in the education and government sectors to empower SMEs in the boda-boda sectors and help them explore ways through which they can expand their businesses,” she said.
Some of the beneficiaries led by Lewis Kibe who operates at Kibute area within Witeithie Ward hailed the University for the Noble Course saying that the training will play a pivotal role in the stability of their business.
“Most of us have been toiling and moiling hard but end up saving nothing. We are however glad that this institution has ‘opened our eyes’ and enlightened us on diverse ways we can grow our wealth from our business. We wish other institutions can emulate the same and extend such support to other groups,” Kibe said.
By Kamau Njoroge
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