The Al Jazeera Media Institute (AJMI) organised a "Young Entrepreneurs" course to cultivate entrepreneurial thinking in children and introduce them to the fundamentals of project planning and transforming ideas into viable projects through a practical learning experience, AJMI announced on its website.
Sixteen young people participated in the course, working as a team. They were divided into three groups that established three startup companies, simulating a real-world entrepreneurial environment.
The participants demonstrated a high level of engagement and commitment throughout the programme, along with a remarkable ability to learn and apply their knowledge practically. This was evident in the final business presentation, where the children introduced their projects to visitors and a judging panel, showcasing real-world examples of ideas they had developed themselves.
Several participants expressed enthusiasm and pride in their experience. Saad al-Mahmoud said that the course taught him the basics of project planning and how to launch a real business idea. He noted that his participation in the business exhibition was a unique experience, during which he felt proud to present his project.
Fatima Saud al-Dulaimi explained that the course helped her to present her idea confidently and plan her project step by step. She considered her participation in the business exhibition on the final day, and presenting her project to the public, a pivotal moment in her experience.
The course instructor, Dr Rania al-Jamal, emphasised that teaching entrepreneurship to children goes beyond simply starting a business. It includes building confidence, developing creative thinking, and teaching them how to turn ideas into reality.
She noted that what the participants demonstrated during the course reflects the importance of early investment in children's minds as an investment in the future.
