Introduction to Entrepreneurship: Empowering High School Students
Author: Iston Dwija Utama
Wednesday, August 23rd, 2023. BINUS University @Bandung Creativepreneurship Program is empowering high school students through Community Service. The primary goal of the community service initiative was to introduce, educate, and inspire high school students about the exciting world of entrepreneurship. Through this project, the BINUS Business School faculty member introduced them to entrepreneurial concepts, strategies, and real-world examples; we aimed to ignite their passion for business, product development, and innovation. Through interactive sessions, engaging discussions, and hands-on activities, we encouraged students to envision themselves as future entrepreneurs—bold visionaries who could transform ideas into impactful ventures.
Why Entrepreneurship Matters
As a speaker, Iston Dwija Utama explained that entrepreneurship goes beyond the traditional boundaries of profit-driven business. It is a cognitive framework that strengthens resilience, encourages creative thinking, and promotes skillful problem-solving. This educational project sought to demonstrate how this entrepreneurial spirit is widespread. Regardless of the student’s aspirations for leading technological advancements, assembling creative works, or tackling urgent social issues, our goal was to establish the belief that entrepreneurial opportunities encompass a wide range of fields.
The Journey: Story of the Activities
In a bid to foster entrepreneurial spirit and critical thinking among local high school students, a dynamic project unfolded at SMA Kalam Kudus Bandung. Here’s a glimpse into the engaging journey:
Welcoming Atmosphere: The project kicked off with warm smiles and enthusiastic greetings to the students, setting the tone for a day filled with inspiration and learning. Emphasizing that entrepreneurship knows no bounds, the team conveyed that it’s a path open to all.
Engaging Presentations: Meticulously crafted presentations covered a spectrum of essential topics: Understanding Entrepreneurship: From defining entrepreneurship’s pivotal role in economic growth to sharing inspiring success stories, students were immersed in the diverse world of entrepreneurship.
Exploring Business Models: Diving into various business models, including subscription-based services and e-commerce, students were encouraged to think critically about value creation and sustainability.
Interactive Discussions: The highlight of the sessions was the lively Q&A, where students posed thought-provoking questions, sparking insightful conversations and personal anecdotes.
Fostering Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills: Through engaging activities and hypothetical scenarios, students were challenged to think creatively and develop innovative solutions to real-world problems. Brainstorming sessions led to a plethora of imaginative ideas ranging from sustainable fashion to global tutoring apps.
Benefits for Students and School:
Student Empowerment: Students left with enriched knowledge of entrepreneurship, market research techniques, and newfound confidence in their abilities to tackle challenges.
School Impact: The project enriched the school’s curriculum, inspiring students to take initiative and organize mini ventures, thus nurturing leadership skills among the student body.
Conclusion: Nurturing Tomorrow’s Innovators
As the project concluded, it left behind more than just lessons on entrepreneurship; it sowed seeds of possibility and ignited a flame of creativity in the hearts of students. With hopes for a future where these young minds become the leaders of innovative ventures and social movements, the project celebrated the beginning of a transformative journey.
