Context of the Training Course

Entrepreneurial training should not be seen as separate instrument independent from other promotional activities. The proposed training course is only one part of the necessary promotional package for small scale women entrepreneurs, even if it is an essential one. To set up or improve a business, access to loans, information, follow-up consultancy and, in many cases, specific additional training is needed.

In most countries institutions for the promotion of small scale enterprises and specific credit schemes are available. The programme should relate the training activities to the relevant institutions/organizations.

Local training institutions which plan to organize a training course should be capable of providing adequate follow-up. The success of training is not measured by the transmission of knowledge alone, rather it is (or should be) measured by the successful application of knowledge and how the trainees use their skills to improve their daily business activities. The implementation phase for setting up a new enterprise or expanding an enterprise - is the most difficult step to undertake. Sufficient support should be provided by the local institution. They should keep records, make field visits, send questionnaires, act as an information centre and organize a weekend workshop in order to follow up on the participants.

The following schedule should be followed for the implementation of follow-up activities, whereby the timing is expressed in terms of weeks preceding the end of the course: