DUSHANBE, August 3, 2016, Asia-Plus — Participants at this year’s University of Central Asia (UCA) Summer Camp gained insight into how a business grows from an ambitious idea to a successful enterprise at the Camp’s 2016 Entrepreneurship Evening, held 1 August 2016 at the Royal Beach Resort in Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan.
According to press release issued by UCA, seventy-three students from Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan were tasked with creating a business proposal with the potential to thrive in Central Asia. Each proposal required an original idea that demonstrated positive social impact and aligned with market needs.
The businesses generated by the enthusiastic Grade 10 students spanned a variety of sectors and included environmental innovations, health care technology, alternative energy systems, inventive uses of tourism and public spaces, and organizations providing assistance to the disabled.
Working in groups of four, students reportedly used a planning model that outlined the specific areas aspiring entrepreneurs must consider. The Business Model Canvas required students to identify key partners, craft a value proposition, establish customer relationships and distribution channels, and determine a cost structure. Groups also generated budgets detailing the resources necessary to launch their ideas.
With a business plan and budget in-hand, each group presented before a committee. They were evaluated on proposed enterprises, social impact, originality and innovation, among other criteria. The presentations helped hone students’ public speaking skills and showcasing what they learnt in the collaborative academic environment
A team of Central Asian and international teachers and counselors guided the brainstorming and discussions. The activity aimed to deepen students’ critical thinking, applied math and creativity, and explore ways to utilize communication, teamwork and leadership skills to transform ideas into reality.
The UCA Summer Camp runs through August 9, 2016. The Camp offers a unique academic enrichment experience for students to improve their English and math skills, receive critical support in the university application process, and learn and share experiences with students from throughout the region through sports, drama, debate, science and field trips.
The University of Central Asia (UCA) was founded in 2000. The Presidents of Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan and His Highness the Aga Khan signed the International Treaty and Charter establishing this secular and private University, which was ratified by the respective parliaments and registered with the United Nations. UCA was established to offer an internationally recognized standard of higher education in Central Asia and prepare graduates to contribute leadership, ideas and innovation to the economies and communities of the region. UCA brings with it the commitment and partnership of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
