UMK entrepreneurship project transforms lives of underprivileged students

A groundbreaking entrepreneurship program at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) is significantly improving the prospects of underprivileged students. The 'Nusukopi' cafe project, a pilot initiative, has achieved remarkable success, generating over RM20,000 in sales and approximately RM10,000 in net profit within its first six months of operation.

UMK Vice-Chancellor Datuk Dr. Arham Abdullah highlighted that the program not only enables students to earn supplementary income during their studies but also shifts the approach to aid from direct cash handouts to establishing sustainable business platforms. Twenty underprivileged students were selected to participate, receiving hands-on learning and direct exposure through funding from Maybank Islamic, which provided RM277,000 for operations and training.

"Through this program, students not only learn skills in food and beverage preparation but are also exposed to business management aspects, including supply chains, raw material procurement, and daily cafe operations," Dr. Arham explained at the cafe's opening ceremony. This impactful initiative redefines how aid is provided, focusing on creating lasting business opportunities. Notably, over 70% of UMK's nearly 10,000 students across its three campuses come from underprivileged backgrounds.

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Through this program, students not only learn skills in food and beverage preparation but are also exposed to business management aspects, including supply chains, raw material procurement, and daily cafe operations.