Location: Burundi
SDG: #4
Description:
Introducing the Merit First Program, an initiative spearheaded by World Merit Burundi through its local representation council in the Bujumbura mayorship. This visionary program was designed to engage and uplift young students in secondary schools located within Bujumbura town. Its primary focus was on instilling an entrepreneurial spirit, cultivating essential life skills, and fostering the establishment of “Entrepreneurship Clubs” under the World Merit banner.
The program unfolded through a series of impactful events held at various secondary schools, attracting enthusiastic participation from hundreds of students. These events served as platforms for nurturing entrepreneurship, delving into the principles of Stephen Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” as applied to business and personal growth, exploring the role of social media in effecting social change, introducing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), and utilizing Sima Video as a tool to promote UNSDG1.
Moreover, participants were guided in the creation of World Merit Clubs, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among aspiring young entrepreneurs. Success stories were also shared during these gatherings, aiming to inspire and motivate students to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys.
It’s important to note that this groundbreaking project made its debut in January 2019 and spanned a duration of twenty-four months, marking a significant milestone in the pursuit of empowering and nurturing the potential of the youth in Bujumbura.