Kabarak University today hosted the official launch of the NCBA Bank Business Development Program for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) at the Nakuru City Campus. The event brought together representatives from NCBA Bank, members of the University Management Board, faculty from the School of Business and Economics, entrepreneurs, and other distinguished guests.
The program, established through a partnership between Kabarak University and NCBA Bank, seeks to equip entrepreneurs with practical skills, knowledge, and strategies necessary for sustainable business growth and economic empowerment. Through this initiative, participants will gain valuable insights and tools to strengthen their enterprises and navigate the evolving business environment.
The event began with welcoming remarks and introductions of guests, followed by presentations highlighting the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in supporting entrepreneurship. Participants were introduced to the objectives of the four-month program, which focuses on strategic business planning, financial management, innovation, marketing, technology integration, and business continuity.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Henry K. Kiplangat underscored the vital role of entrepreneurship in driving economic growth, job creation, and innovation. He noted that many SMEs continue to face challenges such as inadequate planning, weak financial management structures, and limited access to markets, making capacity-building initiatives increasingly important.
Prof. Kiplangat commended NCBA Bank for its commitment to supporting entrepreneurs beyond traditional financing and reaffirmed Kabarak University's dedication to offering practical, research-based, and values-driven education that addresses real-world challenges. He emphasized that partnerships such as this provide meaningful opportunities for entrepreneurs to develop the competencies needed to build sustainable and competitive businesses.
The program is expected to create a platform for knowledge exchange, mentorship, and networking, enabling participants to strengthen their business operations while contributing to national economic development. By combining academic expertise with industry experience, the initiative seeks to foster innovation and resilience among SMEs across the country.
The event concluded with remarks from the Vice-Chancellor and David Wasamba. Both leaders expressed confidence that the program would empower entrepreneurs with the knowledge, skills, and networks required to grow resilient businesses. They encouraged participants to actively engage in the training sessions and maximize the opportunities presented through the partnership.
The launch officially marked the beginning of a collaborative initiative that is expected to contribute significantly to entrepreneurial development, job creation, and economic growth in Kenya.
