IBA-CED and Saylani Welfare Introduce 'Spark Start Program' for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

October 26, 2024: IBA's Center for Entrepreneurial Development (IBA-CED), joined hands with Saylani Welfare International Trust (SWT) on to launch the 'Spark Start Entrepreneurship Program'. The program's orientation ceremony was held at the IBA City Campus, marking the beginning of a six week-long initiative that aims to develop entrepreneurial skills of the youth. Fifty students were shortlisted from 1,000 applicants.

Director IBA-CED, Dr. Lalarukh Ejaz delivered the opening address, underscoring how important entrepreneurship is to create jobs and uplift youth to become self-reliant.

"This is a very exciting opportunity for IBA-CED to team up with an NGO doing such amazing work in Pakistan and we hope the students here leave this room having developed a robust understanding of the entrepreneurial mindset and can hopefully become catalysts in changing Pakistan's economy," she added.

Acknowledging the partnership with SWT, she thanked the representatives for their support. SWT is one of the largest NGOs in the country.

SWT team included Chairman SWT, Mr. Bashir Farooqi and board members: Mr. Shazaib Paracha, Mr. Abu Faisal, Mr. Amjad Chamdia, Mr. Afzal Chamdia, Mr. Furqan Aslam and Mr. Omar Khan.

Mr. Faisal shared his insights on the potential of entrepreneurship as a pathway to sustainable economic growth. He urged participants to embrace entrepreneurial ventures, noting that personal and professional growth in business ventures can exceed what is possible in traditional employment.

Following the welcome remarks, Mr. Azad Ahmed, Manager, IBA-CED, gave an overview of the program's structure. He highlighted that the curriculum combines theory with practice, focusing on key areas including business modeling, marketing, financial literacy, and design thinking. He said that participants would benefit from the speaker sessions, mentoring, and networking opportunities throughout the program.

The ceremony concluded with an inspiring address by Chairman SWT, who encouraged students to cultivate resilience and approach entrepreneurship with a determined mindset. His spiritual reflections left an impression on the participants, setting the tone for the learning journey ahead.