Karatina University’s School of Business, in partnership with Marketplace Simulations from Knoxville, Tennessee USA, organized an interactive four-day faculty ‘Train the Trainer’ workshop at the university’s main campus in Kagochi, from February 24th to 27th, 2025. The workshop brought together participants from over 34 universities spread across USA, Germany, India, Togo, Ghana, Niger, Nigeria, Uganda and host Kenya.
The workshop was officially opened by Karatina University’s Deputy Vice-chancellor in charge of Academic, Research and Students’ Affairs Prof. Franklin Wabwoba on behalf of the Vice-chancellor. He was accompanied by the Deputy Vice-chancellor in charge of Planning, Finance and Administration, Prof Richard Kiai.
The training marks a significant departure from the traditional theoretical learning by advancing a practical approach in business education. One of the organizers, Prof. Teresia Kyalo from the Karatina University thus said, “This workshop comes at a time when we in Kenyan universities are preparing for the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) which lays much emphasis on practical skills-based learning.” She continued, “The simulated learning activities provide the learner with an opportunity to participate in simulated business games, making learning fun.”
Marketplace Simulations, which has been in existence for 28 years, is popular for its comprehensive business simulations that transform theoretical knowledge into practical skills. Their platforms cover disciplines such as marketing, strategic management, and supply chain logistics, providing immersive experiences that prepare students for real-world challenges.
The Marketplace Founder and CEO, Prof. Ernie Cadotte said that his vision is to see the concept spread across Africa as is the case in the rest of the world. “The overwhelming success in this workshop therefore marks a significant milestone in this direction.” He said.
During the workshop, participants engaged in experiential learning through advanced simulations that covered various business aspects, including marketing, human resources, sales, and finance. This equips them with practical insights into company dynamics and the expectations of business professionals.
The ‘Train the Trainer’ workshop resonates well with Karatina University’s commitment to enhance the quality of its business education through innovative and practical approaches in preparing its graduates to meet industry’s demands.