A major cross-community, cross-border business programme is helping build the business acumen of tomorrow’s young entrepreneurs.
The Knowledge through Enterprise for Youth (KEY) Programme recently brought together young people from 78 Northern Ireland schools who celebrated their graduation from the scheme.
The scheme aims to develop enterprise and entrepreneurial skills and enhance the young people’s understanding of other traditions.
Young Enterprise Northern Ireland and Junior Achievement Ireland coordinated the programme with funding from the International Fund for Ireland.
Over seven months, more than 900 students took part in special workshops, outdoor activities and tasks designed to build motivation, confidence and entrepreneurial skills and embed a greater understanding of their peers’ background and culture.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Dr Adrian Johnston, chairman of the International Fund for Ireland, said: “The KEY Programme is a great example of how business education can have a positive impact on young people. It has fulfilled a dual role of developing confidence and business skills while promoting understanding and tolerance.
“For many young people, KEY has been their first opportunity to mix with peers from other traditions and backgrounds. By taking part I hope each student has gained a new perspective on what it takes to be successful both in business and in life. Our congratulations go to all those who have graduated from the KEY Programme. I hope their experiences and the lessons of KEY can be carried forward.”
Ciaran Sheehan, chairman of Young Enterprise Northern Ireland, said: “The 900 KEY students deserve to be commended on all their hard work over the past year.
“The entrepreneurial aspect of KEY means that pupils have been brought together to work in their business teams, and this has an impact that reaches beyond their time on the programme.
“KEY has thrived because of the immense enthusiasm, ambition and talent of the students and the support from the International Fund for Ireland that has enabled us to instil enhanced business acumen and provide life-changing experiences.”
Each year, 12 participants who displayed exceptional entrepreneurial skills as judged by their peers go on to participate in the Canadian Junior Achievement Conference,
held in Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. This event brings hundreds of young people together from around the world to get a firsthand look at the international world of business.