Entrepreneurship is more than just starting a business—it’s a mindset that fosters innovation, problem-solving, and economic growth. In today’s rapidly changing world, higher education institutions must integrate entrepreneurial thinking into their curricula to prepare students for real-world challenges. Recognizing this, I had the privilege of conducting a three-hour seminar at Kabul University, where I introduced the Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) program to 500 eager students looking to transform their ideas into sustainable businesses.
As an ANAFAE and ILO-certified SIYB Master Trainer, my goal was to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical business application. The session provided students with a comprehensive understanding of how entrepreneurship can shape their futures and how the SIYB methodology offers a structured, step-by-step approach to turning business ideas into reality.
✔ The Role of Entrepreneurship in Higher Education – Why universities should encourage entrepreneurial thinking to equip students for the modern economy.
✔ Opportunities & Challenges for Young Entrepreneurs – How students can navigate the Afghan business landscape and identify market gaps.
✔ From Idea to Business: The SIYB Approach – Understanding how the SIYB program provides a practical roadmap for starting and growing a business.
✔ Validating a Business Idea – How to assess whether an idea is feasible, scalable, and meets market demands.
✔ The Power of Self-Employment – Why entrepreneurship is a strong alternative to traditional employment in Afghanistan’s economic climate.
The session sparked insightful discussions, with students eager to learn how entrepreneurial skills can enhance their education and career prospects. Many showed interest in enrolling in SIYB training programs to further develop their ideas.
As Afghanistan continues to rebuild and evolve, empowering young minds with entrepreneurial knowledge and practical tools is essential. I am proud to be part of this journey, guiding students toward economic independence and business success through structured learning and mentorship.
📅 Date: September 19, 2020
✍ Author: Mohammad Akbar Mahmoody