The concept of entrepreneurship and the basic steps for creating a business were presented to students of the Vocational High School of the American Farm School in Thessaloniki, following the kind invitation of AFS’ executives and special councelors in professional development and psychology, Mrs. Katerina Stamatika and Mr. Theodosios Tassios.
The young students (would be entrpeneurs) in the agricultural sector, had the opportunity to get acquainted with the Head of microSTARS office, Mrs. Agni Pagouni, who presented the business development services that microSTARS offers, while they managed to learn what microcredit is and to what extent microfinance is applied in Greece, but also to become familiar with issues, such as entrepreneurship, female entrepreneurship, financial management, market research, business planning, and skills development.
During this two-day event, that was held on October 7th and 8th, special emphasis was placed on this year ‘s Borrow Wisely Campaing #2020BWC, an initiative of the Microfinance Centre (MFC) – of which KEPA is a member – that raises public awareness on financial literacy issues. Financial literacy, as defined by the OECD (2012), is a combination of awareness, knowledge, skills, attitudes and behaviors, elements that are necessary for making the right financial decisions, with the ultimate goal of achieving individual financial prosperity.
Through their active participation, the students had the opportunity to discuss the concept of financial health and to be informed about the opportunity given to them to take advantage of the online Health Check Quiz. The purpose of the Health Check Quiz is for every individual to have a clear picture of his/her ability level to manage his/her own finances.
In addition to financial health, the main concern in the midst of the critical situation we are all experiencing, was to ensure the health of students, teachers and external collaborators. Hence, these meetings were held in this direction, with social distances and other personal protection measures.
