Next generation of ‘enterprisng’ students learn about business
MORE THAN 450 PUPILS FROM NORTH CORK BRING THEIR BUSINESS IDEAS TO THE TABLE
MORE than 450 enterprising secondary school students from across North Cork have been given a platform to show they have what it takes to become the next generation of successful Irish entrepreneurs.
The students and their teachers took part in a ‘ brainstorming’ day at the Mallow’s Springfort Hall Hotel, where they were offered helpful insights by business experts into how to create their own budding enterprises.
The event was part of the annual Student Enterprise Programme – run under the auspices of the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) North Cork – which is aimed at encouraging students to set up and run their own businesses over the course of the academic year.
Facilitated by The Entrepreneurs Academy, recognised as one of Ireland’s leading innovation training companies, it gave the students the opportunity to learn about new global business innovations and how to adapt brainstorming techniques for use in developing ideas for their mini-companies.
One of the highlights of the day was the address by the ‘Smooth Remove’ team from Boherbue Comprehensive, who won the 2019 Student Enterprise senior title with their ergonomic wooden device, which allows people with back problems or mobility issues to comfortably take off their shoes.
Their teacher, Aine Ní Bhriain, said the programme was a hugely positive experience for the students.
“We had an amazing year. The whole programme was such a positive event to be involved in. We were delighted with our national success and, of course, we are so proud to be the reigning senior champions of student enterprise in North Cork too. We hope to continue with this success with the programme this year,” she said.
Business advisor with the LEO. Joan Kelleher, said the speakers gave a fascinating insight into how they achieved their success.
“Their advice was sucked up by the students, who were then split into groups for practical workshops to help them come up with ideas for this years competition. The outcomes were many and varied, and it will be very interesting to see how the students develop their ideas over the next sixmonths,” said Ms Kelleher.
“Here in North Cork we are very fortunate to have such dedicated teachers who work tirelessly every year to help their students learn about the importance of entrepreneurship. Our success at both senior and junior levels nationally this year is testament to the work being put in on a local level,” she added.
The co-ordinator of the North Cork Schools Enterprise Programme, Garry Lowe of Whizzkids Training, said organisers were delighted with the large turnout for the event.
“There was a lot of positivity in the room. We hope they will take on board the processes we have shown them and apply them again and again over the coming months. Today’s event could be the start of a successful entrepreneurial career for some of these students,” he said.
The next event in the Schools Enterprise calendar is the Christmas Trade Fair in December at the Mallow GAA complex, when students will set up stands and put their products and services on display to the public.