The Power Of Numbers And the Influence To Markets

The story of Kabarak is one of vibrancy, resilience, and profound change—a powerful illustration of the deep connection between educational institutions and local economies.

Picture a town alive with energy, where the laughter and camaraderie of eager scholars filled every corner. This was Kabarak in the early 2020s, a place transformed when the government began placing students in private universities. The impact was immediate: businesses thrived, apartments brimmed with tenants, and hotels buzzed with activity. It was a remarkable era, with Kabarak pulsing with the spirit of its student community.

However, in 2022, the government’s decision to withdraw from placing students in private universities sent shockwaves through Kabarak. The change hit hard and fast. Apartments became vacant, small businesses faced the daunting reality of closure, and the lively hotels that once rang with laughter fell silent. Residents who had once envisioned a bright and prosperous future found themselves searching for opportunities beyond their hometown, causing Kabarak’s economy to struggle.

During my time in Kabarak from October to November, I had the privilege of speaking with numerous SME owners, and it was both enlightening and heart-wrenching to witness the weight of this transition. Their stories of resilience and heartbreak brought to light the human side of these economic shifts. As a student of Kabarak University, I felt the vibrancy of the town and understand the stark contrast to what it has become.

The statistics paint a sobering picture:

?? Student Population Decline: Kabarak University saw enrollment decrease from over 9,500 students to around 6,000.

?? Business Closures: Approximately 1 in every 3 businesses in Kabarak town closed due to the significant drop in student numbers.

?? Economic Impact: Once thriving, the local economy faced a steep decline, leaving many SMEs fighting to survive.

This narrative underscores the vital role educational institutions play in shaping local economies. Schools are not just places where knowledge is imparted; they are critical lifelines for communities, generating needs for housing, food, entertainment, and various services, while altering the fabric of those around them.

As we engage in discussions around sustainable economic planning, we cannot overlook the reliance of local economies on key institutions like universities. Disruptive policies and decisions don’t merely impact students; they send ripples through entire communities, touching countless lives.

Yet, amid these pressing challenges, Kabarak still holds a flicker of hope. The resilience of its people shines brightly as a testament to their potential. By embracing innovation and diversifying income sources, Kabarak can begin to heal and flourish once more. This community possesses the talent and drive to seek new opportunities, nurture entrepreneurship, and rekindle the vibrant spirit that once defined it.

Kabarak’s experience reveals a poignant truth: when people come together, opportunities abound; when they depart, economies can wane. With the right innovative strategies and a spirit of collective action, we can forge resilient ecosystems that thrive—not simply by relying on a single element but through the diverse contributions of all its members.

Kabarak University