By Jeff Mwangi.
Students from Chuka University had the unique opportunity to be empowered on entrepreneurship, courtesy of the LIAM Foundation Project.
Speaking during the Young Entrepreneur Business Summit held at the university’s main campus, Dr. Fred Akama, founder of the LIAM Foundation Project, revealed that this was the second summit of its kind, following a similar event held at Masinde Muliro University earlier this year.
Dr. Akama explained that the project collaborates with universities to ignite and nurture the entrepreneurial talents and creativity of young people.
He emphasized that students often engage in small businesses within the communities surrounding universities, using these ventures as side hustles to make ends meet.
“The LIAM Foundation aims to streamline and support these students’s small businesses, providing students with the tools to grow and succeed”. Noted Dr. Akama.
As part of the initiative, Dr. Akama announced that the foundation is registering students who already run businesses or have promising business ideas.
He noted that, these students will undergo a four-month incubation program designed to accelerate the growth of their ventures, and at the end of the program, the top 10 students will each receive Ksh. 100,000 to boost their businesses or bring their ideas to life.
” The foundation plans to expand its reach in 2026, with forums scheduled at 20 universities across the country to empower more students in entrepreneurship,” said Dr. Akama.
Professor Andrew Muguna, a lecturer at Chuka University, commended the program, highlighting its potential to mentor students by equipping them with practical business skills that complement the theoretical knowledge taught in class.
He noted that Chuka University has already launched an entrepreneurial program with start-up funds for small businesses.
However, he acknowledged that the LIAM Foundation Project is an invaluable addition that will elevate Chuka University’s status as an entrepreneurial hub.
Norris Mbotela, Global President of the Young Entrepreneur Business Summit, underscored the importance of such initiatives, noting that many university graduates struggle to find employment.
” Projects like the LIAM Foundation empower students to become self-employed, whether during their studies or after graduation,” said Mbotela.
Ann Njeri, Vice President of Chuka University, praised the summit for its timely relevance, stating that it provides solutions for young people who have ambitious visions but lack the means to realize them.
“I urge students in universities across the country to embrace the LIAM Foundation Project. This project has potential to impact society through entrepreneurship,” Njeri said.
This collaborative effort between Chuka University and the LIAM Foundation Project sets a powerful example of how institutions can prepare students to become job creators, fostering innovation and self-sufficiency among Kenya’s youth.
Edited by John Majau.
