The interplay of learning and worklife experiences : a case of job creation by small and medium enterprises (SMEs}in Kampala- Uganda

Abstract

This research was intended to study the interplay between learning and work life experiences, taking a case of job creation by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Kampala. SMEs create employment, thereby reducing unemployment, which is a problem in Uganda, and affects both the educated and those that are not. In most cases many people keep looking for employment and when they do not find it they remain unemployed. Many of these people have skills, but they are not able to use them to create employment for themselves. The experiences of successful SME entrepreneurs could strengthen formal education, to reduce the problem of unemployment. This is a significant study because the lessons learned from it can lead to improvement in education and encourage people to start employment for themselves and for others, leading to a reduction in the unemployment problem, which is rampant in Uganda. The study was carried out on five Enterprises which were selected from various SMEs that attended a workshop organized by the Private Sector Foundation of Uganda in March 2010 for SMEs. These included a manufacturer of energy-saving stoves and cooking systems, a beekeeping equipment manufacture, a mushroom grower, a furniture company and a producer of herbal products. Information was gathered through carrying out interviews and observation. The study gave rise to a number of findings and these included the following. One does not need to have the technical knowledge to be able to start an enterprise. Much can be accomplished through other people. Some enterprises develop from people's hobbies, even without prior intention to turn them into enterprises. In order to create employment it is important to be creative and to put into practice knowledge acquired. People who intend to start enterprises should start early, when they are still young and energetic because it is very demanding. Integrity is very essential if one is to succeed in self -employment and it should be cultivated right from an early age and in school. Education is very important in job creation, even in cases where people start enterprises from using skills they acquired from elsewhere other than from school. Also, networking and social skills are essential in enterprise. People can start enterprises even without a lot of funds. It is very possible to start small and grow over time. A number of recommendations were made, including the following. Learners in various fields should not only be equipped with technical skills but rather, other skills such as social skills need to be developed. In addition, attention should also be paid to their gifting and hobbies because these can reward their carrier. Opportunities should be created for teachers and students in institutions to learn from entrepreneurs' experiences. Creativity should also be promoted in the course of training so that learners can be able to think and come up with enterprises, even after they leave school. They should be able to use the knowledge, skills and resources they have productively. In conclusion, job creation can be achieved by many more people than is the case today. There is need for flexibility on the part of people who seek employment, especially those who are educated. There are many opportunities around us and knowledge in various forms. Thus, the knowledge and skills acquired should be put into practice to create jobs, and this can lead to reduction in the unemployment problem.