By Mikee Natinga Norico
Centralians gather in full support as CPUR kicks off the academic year with CENTREPRENEUR: Centralian Student Entrepreneurs Fair.
To kick off the academic year with a celebration of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, the ĢƵ Republic (CPUR) launched ĢƵCENTREPRENEUR: Centralian Students Entrepreneurs FairĢƵ on July 21 at the Alumni Promenade Concert Park. The two-day event features 32 student-run booths, spotlighting the talents, creativity, and business acumen of Centralian student entrepreneurs.
Organized by the CPUR Ministry of Organizations and Fraternities, the fair serves as a platform for students to promote their products and servicesĢƵranging from food and beverages to fashion and lifestyle itemsĢƵwhile fostering a sense of community among the universityĢƵs aspiring business leaders.
ĢƵThis event is more than just selling,ĢƵ said Kristine Macapagal, one of the student entrepreneurs. ĢƵItĢƵs a chance for us to connect with fellow students and let more people know about our brand and products.ĢƵ
Despite its success, organizing the event wasnĢƵt without its challenges. Ma. Theresa Magbanua, CPUR Senator and Minister for Organizations and Fraternities, explained that time constraints were one of the biggest hurdles. ĢƵWe couldnĢƵt set up during the weekend since the administration did not permit it, and with classes being canceled, scheduling became tight.ĢƵ
In an exclusive interview, CPU Republic President Jellian Precious Ganda shared insights into the vision and efforts behind CENTREPRENEUR. According to Ganda, the fair was initiated in response to the growing community of student entrepreneurs at CPU. ĢƵWe wanted to support Centralian business owners and facilitate networking opportunities across colleges and departments,ĢƵ she said.
The main objectives of CENTREPRENEUR are closely aligned with the CPU RepublicĢƵs broader mission of student empowerment and engagement. ĢƵCENTREPRENEUR directly supports these goals by helping students grow their businesses, expand their reach, and gain exposure to real-world entrepreneurial experiences,ĢƵ Ganda noted.
Centralians enjoy a variety of offeringsĢƵfrom food to fashionĢƵduring the bustling CENTREPRENEUR Fair.
Preparations for the event began during the summer term. Ganda emphasized the commitment of the 21st Parliament, highlighting the continuous monitoring and strategic planning that went into making the fair possible. ĢƵWe owe it all to our participants who were enthusiastic enough to show up,ĢƵ she added.
The selection process for the student entrepreneurs was based on early registration, followed by a screening of their business proposals. ĢƵWe ensured that all applicants complied with university policies and were ready to present professionally,ĢƵ Ganda explained.
While there were no formal external partnerships, Ganda credited the university administration and staff for their invaluable support in enabling the event to happen. ĢƵIt was a collaborative effort, and we are grateful for the opportunity.ĢƵ
When asked about future plans, Ganda affirmed the CPU RepublicĢƵs commitment to sustaining and expanding initiatives like CENTREPRENEUR. ĢƵWe conduct strategic planning every semester to identify how we can better support students and create more opportunities for them to thrive.ĢƵ
In a message to her fellow student entrepreneurs, Ganda expressed her admiration: ĢƵI am extremely proud of our CENTREPRENEURS. Hopefully, this experience provided them with insights and confidence that they can carry forward in their journey.ĢƵ
The two-day fair served not only as a vibrant marketplace but also as a testament to the dynamic spirit of CentraliansĢƵcreative, resilient, and ready to lead. With more programs in the pipeline, the CPU Republic remains steadfast in its mission to uplift and empower every Centralian.