Chrisland Schools has taken a bold step in educating its learners about entrepreneurship and business.
During its recent Entrepreneurship Day, Chrisland School Opebi transformed its grounds into a bustling marketplace, inspiring young entrepreneurs to showcase their enterprising spirit with colorful displays of goods, including beads, clothes, snacks, books, and toys.
The atmosphere was buzzing as the young entrepreneurs eagerly showcased their products, employing various marketing tactics to attract patrons to their stalls.
Firesanmi Olaleye, a year-four-year-learner, energetically waved handmade bead necklaces in the air, calling out to passersby about the unique designs and affordable prices. His craftsmanship, learned from his mother and sister, paid off as his bead sales totaled over N6,000. “Bead making is a form of relaxation to me, but you need a master and constant practice to gain mastery of the art. Come and see my beautiful beads, made with love and perfect for any occasion!” he exclaimed, drawing a number of curious buyers to his stall.
Another student, Oluwatenianu Alonge, confidently stood behind her table of clothes, each piece neatly folded and arranged by size and style. “Get a great deal on quality clothes!” she called out. She sold about ten items, with patrons appreciating the value and her approach.
Alonge explained that her desire to help people look good inspired her to sell clothes at affordable prices, with prices determined by the quality of the cloth. She also expressed her aspiration to become a doctor in the future, adding that she hopes to sell shoes and other basic necessities while practicing medicine.
The Deputy Head Teacher of the School, Mrs. Mark Agatha Chikanelle, shared insights into the objectives of the event. She noted that the primary aim was to educate the pupils about the world of entrepreneurship, innovation, and business.
According to her, the objective was achieved as the pupils took responsibility for their businesses, created ways of selling their products, and ensured minimal or zero losses on that day.
In the lead-up to the event, Chikanelle explained that the school had provided thorough preparatory sessions on what it entails to run a business and how to select and run a good business. “We also made them register their businesses in the office, and as they did, we asked them what they wanted to sell and why. We gave them better options where we felt what they wanted to sell may not yield enough income,” she said.
The event had a profound impact on the pupils, as many began to appreciate the daily efforts of their working parents. “They were particularly excited about the money they earned from their entrepreneurial ventures. Some of them who sold all their products were very excited that they could make so much money from making beads, cocktail drinks, and baking, among others,” Chikanelle concluded.
