The Coca-Cola Foundation in partnership with the Wisynco Group, is making a business management training course available to hundreds of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across Wisynco’s network. Owners and employees of corner shops, wholesales, groceries, and supermarkets, can complete the free online course which is being made available through the Coca-Cola Foundation’s ‘Growing Together’ initiative.
As part of their commitment to drive and empower shopkeepers, FUNDES Latin America, with support from The Coca-Cola Foundation designed “Growing Together” to enhance shopkeepers’ success and turn their businesses into centers of higher profits. This course covers topics such as: inclusion and personal growth, managing your business, digitalization of the business, electronic payments, WhatsApp business, inventory and financial health. The course is available on the platform from August 2023 to February 2024 and is accessible on all devices 24 hours per day. It can be completed in one sitting of just 90 minutes, or over time at the candidate’s convenience.
“The contribution of MSMEs to the Jamaican economy cannot be overstated and we are pleased to expand the ways in which we contribute to MSME development through this business course,” said William Mahfood, Chairman of Wisynco Group Ltd. Speaking at the launch of the initiative, held Thursday October 5 at Wisynco’s headquarters in Lakespen St. Catherine, Senator the Honourable Aubyn Hill reminded the gathering about the government of Jamaica’s emphasis on workforce development through training.
“Training and innovation have immense potential to improve productivity, performance and profits. The government of Jamaica continues to encourage companies to prioritise training of employees for better results. Congratulations to Wisynco and Coca-Cola for contributing to a vibrant, informed ecosystem of entrepreneurs,” Senator Hill said.Jamaican MSMEs join thousands of others in Latin America and the Caribbean who are also completing the course. This Coca-Cola Foundation is collaborating with its partners across the region to strengthen the business skills of small shop owners, build their resilience and help them thrive.
The Technology Innovation Centre (TIC) at the College of Business and Management at the University of Technology and the Professional Services Unit (PSU) at the Mona School of Business and Management at the University of the West Indies provide training, mentorship and development for businesses at various stages of their life cycles. Representatives of both institutions encouraged MSMEs to continue pursuing growth using the expertise available at tertiary institutions across the island.
“Enriching the knowledge base of MSMEs empower them to grow. We applaud Wisynco and Coca-Cola for recognizing the crucial need for capacity building,” said Andrea Bolton-Fyffe, Incubator Manager, TIC. In concurring with the role of education in MSME growth, Ms Diane M. Edwards, Director of the PSU said: “The course uses new modalities of education delivery with content that is engaging, relatable, and presented in clear, simple language…we encourage entrepreneurs to work toward professionalising their businesses and to remain on a continuous learning cycle because learning is key to growth.” – Diane M. Edwards, Director of the PSU.
Registration for the course can be completed at: www.growingtogetherjm.echo.timetoknow.com