Editorial:
It was indeed a great move to see the resumption of the secondary schools’ Junior Achievers Trade Fair. This event, inter alia, serves two very important functions. Like the Inter-collegiate Games, it brings the nation’s secondary school students together in one location for healthy rivalry and keen competition; and it presents a wonderful opportunity for the students to socialize, make friends and build healthy relationships.
Generally, it appears that the Junior Achievers were serious about their business, had some sense as to what they were about and they all seemed committed to the cause. They seem to be clear about the fact that the exercise is aimed at preparing them for the world of work, specifically so in gathering momentum to start their own business. It was also commendable to see the Junior Achievers visiting one another’s booths keenly observing what was happening and asking questions. There is where learning takes place.
All the positives notwithstanding, it is worthwhile to take a hard and critical look at some details of the Trade Fair in light of its stated goals and the intentions of the organizers.
It was very evident that the blooming business entrepreneurs tried to implement exactly what was taught in the classroom. Any and every patron was guaranteed a smile and a hearty welcome when approaching the booth and this was quite in order. However, it appeared that the attendants at the various booths were glued to their seats, not even venturing out to do some marketing or to invite patrons to their business place. The only time they ventured out was to take a break or, to a lesser extent, to visit another booth.
In that regard, the marketing aspect of the exercise, from a strictly practical standpoint, was somewhat weak. Maybe some of them would have sold a little more if they had gone out and invited patrons to their business. The young business persons need to learn and know the role of a marketing manager or a sales person in any business.
The number of Junior Achievers who went over to purchase KFC and drinks was not only an embarrassment but it bespeaks a total contradiction to the whole exercise. When business aspirants from SJC and SAASS and MDC are promoting healthy local products, and when business places like AHS and HHSS had such a rich variety of sweet and non-sweet items, and when it was announced that there was a bar and that fried chicken was available on the compound, there was no need for the students to so openly contradict themselves.
This is not intended to mean any offence to KFC for it is known that they are the household name worldwide and are doing a great service to this country. However there is need to emphasize the point in this particular medium. It would have been great if the eats and drinks were purchased at the booths within. It would have meant greater sales for all the business and it would have clearly demonstrated patronage and support among the Junior Achievers of the secondary schools of the nation. It was very encouraging, though, to see some more thoughtful students visibly upset with the KFC scenario.
The turnout of parents and the general public at the Trade Fair was somewhat disappointing. Surely, parents and community would have known if only through the efforts of the students in school. Besides, invitations were extended through the electronic media but it is obvious that the public took no heed. It is always gratifying to the young business aspirants, and to anyone for that matter, when some measure of appreciation is shown for their efforts.
