Tatenda Macdonald Haruzivi Field Practicum Module Cohort 20 From this module l have learnt the prerequisites necessary to practically put into practice the knowledge acquired from the first module. This where by a Savings Group will be launched in communities.
Through the field practicum, I was able to put these skills into practice within a real community, which boosted my confidence in supporting savings groups
Full Name: Madalo Jobe Cohort:30 Certification: Community Finance Pathway (Certified Savings Group r CSGM)
*Summary of what I have learnt*
The Certified Saving Group Manager (CSGM) program provided me with essential knowledge and hands on skills in establishing, managing, and digitizing community savings groups. I learned how to build strong governance structures, oversee savings and loan activities, keep accurate records, calculate share-outs, and handle conflict resolution effectively. I also gained practical experience in applying digital tools to enhance record keeping and accountability. Through the field practicum, I was able to put these skills into practice within a real community, which boosted my confidence in supporting savings groups. Overall, this training has strengthened my capacity to advance financial inclusion, promote financial literacy, and contribute to sustainable community development.
Nontobeko Sengwayo Cohort 21 Kingdom of Eswatini 🇸🇿 Summary Completing the KAFI certified savings group manager program has been a life-changing experience for me. Throughout the course, I gained practical knowledge about budgeting, saving, investing, responsible borrowing, financial record keeping, savings group formation and governance, savings and loan management, share-out and profit distribution, and digital financial management. These lessons have changed the way I think about money and have given me the confidence to make better financial decisions. Beyond the financial knowledge, the fellowship taught me the importance of leadership, integrity, teamwork, accountability, and empowering others. I now understand that financial literacy is a powerful tool that can help individuals, families, and communities break the cycle of poverty and build a more secure future. The knowledge and skills I have gained have inspired me to take action. I will soon be introducing the Future Finance Program, which aims to empower young people and adults with practical financial literacy skills. My goal is to help others develop healthy financial habits, make informed financial decisions, and achieve financial independence. I am grateful to KAFI for investing in my personal and leadership development. This fellowship has strengthened my passion for financial education, and I look forward to using what I have learned to create a positive impact in my community.
From this module, I have gained a deeper understanding of the prerequisites and practical steps required to apply the knowledge and skills acquired from the first module. The module has equipped me with the necessary knowledge to facilitate the establishment and launch of Savings Groups within communities. It has also enhanced my understanding of how Savings Groups can be introduced, organized, and effectively implemented to promote financial inclusion, savings, and community empowerment
Thokozani Dzantuleni Cohort 27 Certified Saving Group Manager Lesson: Knowledge and skills are to be put into action and as a Group Savings Manager, make sure you guide the group you are leading in every step and also ensure that they maintain accuracy, attendance and compliance.
This module , I have learnt to practice every module inorder to master from every theory. Out of this I was brought to think of Village Savings Loans that slack behind in some of the procedures in managing their group. This module helped me address the gaps faced and I managed to work VSLGs to correct on Cash books, digitalisation of records.
Adewuyi Anuoluwapo Damilola Cohort 6 Nigeria Certified Savings group manager (CSGM) This is a pratical step and trust is really needed in that journey.every lasting savings union is built on integrity and trust.
Name: Faston Bwanali Cohort: 20 Certificate: Certified Savings Group Manager (CSGM) – Community Finance Pathway
What I have learned: I have learned that field practicum is the bridge between knowledge and real-world application. Practical experience is essential in understanding how savings groups operate, addressing challenges, and supporting communities to build strong financial systems. Through field engagement, a Community Savings Group Manager gains skills in group formation, governance, financial management, conflict resolution, and member empowerment. Theory provides the foundation, but practice builds the confidence, leadership, and experience needed to create lasting impact in communities.
MODULE 8 SUMMARY Tne field objective and goal is to establish a functional, and sustainable savings group that serves the needs of its members. The first step is the community outreach by mapping the target community through mobilization drive to sell the benefit of the savings group. Another step is to draft the group and facilitate the selection of leadership, thus Chair, Secretary and Treasurer, and ensure that the process is democratic. During the first meeting, savings group manager should lead by observing through letting the elected leaders to lead, while coach them on meeting facilitation. Make the members to understand about the attendance tracking as a core part of their financial commitment. Review and check ledger and point out and collect the errors. When the disputes arise during practicum, facilitate the a resolution by using the rules and not personal opinions. In addition, show the group how to track their progress and delinquency management, besides, encourage social bond to sustain financial ones. And members should be helped to on group identity (name and vision), because it helps to stick group members together.
The field assessment should be based on three pillars, which are Financial Accuracy, Member Attendance and Rule Compliance, to help the group to survive. Assess all members regularly, especially during cash count, and document success because stories validate the impact. Observe and identify the group weaknesses, and build a fix for it now. As practicum goes to an end, find the exit plan to ensure that the group can function on its own. Conduct a fina feedback session and listen to the field. Compile the report observation consists of the success, challenges and lessons learned, and that experience helps to build a case study for future KAFI students. Finally, encourage group members to stay in touch with the KAFI Foundation for advanced training and support.
Cohort: 30 Certification: Certified Savings Group Manager (CSGM) – Community Finance Pathway
I have learned that establishing a functional and sustainable savings group requires careful planning, proper member selection, and strong financial education. A successful group should have members with diverse skills and financial backgrounds who can work together toward common goals. I learned the importance of educating members about responsible borrowing, the difference between harmful debt and productive credit, and carefully reviewing loan applications. I also learned that clear financial reporting and progress tracking through dashboards help members understand the group’s performance and stay motivated. Overall, proper guidance, transparency, and good management are essential for building a strong and sustainable savings group.
Thelmah Kabamba 🇿🇲 Cohort 27 Certified Savings Group Manager (CSGM) – Community Finance Pathway
I have learnt that the field practicum is where knowledge is transformed into practical skills. It has shown me that understanding savings groups in theory is not enough; the real impact comes from applying that knowledge within the community.
I have also learnt how important proper mobilization, leadership, financial record keeping, member participation, rule compliance and conflict resolution are when establishing and managing a savings group. As a Savings Group Manager, my role is not only to guide members but also to empower them to eventually manage the group confidently on their own.
Most importantly, theory is learned, but practice is earned. This practicum has strengthened my confidence and shown me that financial inclusion becomes meaningful when knowledge is put into action to create lasting change in communities.
Joseph Kiringi Cohort 9 Kenya Field Practicum During community outreach Start where there is already trust. Sell the benefit of having a saving group, not the product. Only work with those who are willing to attend regularly and participate actively. Commitment is the filter for success. Ensure a balance of skills and financial backgrounds of group members. Diversity strengthens group resilience. Guide the group to write their own constitution. It must be 'by the members, for the members' Oversee a transparent election for the Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer. Ensure the process is democratic In the first meeting practice opening the box, checking records, and collecting savings Ensure the Treasurer handles the cash correctly from day one. Publicly verify all counts Explain the dangers of debt and the power of productive credit.Borrow to build, not to consume. Let the leaders lead while you observe and coach during the initial meetings Coach the leaders on professional meeting etiquette. Enforce the register. Make members understand that attendance is a core part of their financial commitment Review the ledger after each meeting. Point out errors before they become habits. If conflict arises during your practicum, facilitate a resolution using the group's constitution Help the Secretary prepare the first monthly report. Ensure it is clear and presented to all. Show the group how to track their progress. A visual growth chart is a massive motivator. Monitor the first loan cycle and address any late payment immediately Encourage the group to have a 'social' element—a cup of tea or a short lesson at the end of meetings. Help them pick a name and a vision. A group with an identity is more likely to stick together Your assessment is based on three pillars: Financial Accuracy, Member Attendance, and Rule Compliance. Watch the members during a cash count. Do they look confident or suspicious? Trust is visible in the eyes. Perform a surprise audit Take photos of the group in action. Record their success stories for their tell your impact Identify weaknesses and build a fix for it immediately Scale potential for the next level As your practicum ends, slowly reduce your presence. Ensure they can function without you. True success is being unnecessary. Celebrate the group’s completion of their first month. Celebration reinforces the habit. Write down your observations: successes, challenges, and lessons learned. This is your professional portfolio. Ensure your work in the field was honorable and transparent. Integrity is your brand identity
Full Name: Othelloe T. Wagboe Jr. Cohort: 34 Certification: Certified Savings Group Manager (CSGM)
Summary of What I Learned:
Through the Field Practicum, I learned how the knowledge and skills gained from the training can be applied in a practical community setting. The practicum helped me understand the importance of effective communication, proper group management, accurate record keeping, savings and loans management, and teamwork when working with savings groups.
I also learned that managing a savings group requires patience, accountability, transparency, and the ability to work closely with members. Practical experience makes it easier to identify challenges, support members, and apply appropriate solutions.
As a future Certified Savings Group Manager, the Field Practicum has strengthened my confidence in applying what I have learned to real-life situations. I believe these practical skills will enable me to support savings groups effectively, promote financial inclusion, and contribute to the economic empowerment of individuals and communities.
Through the Field Practicum, I learned how the knowledge and skills gained from the training can be applied in a practical community setting, therefore it is recommended to share your work in the field was honorable and transparent. You represent the KAFI brand.
Malawi | Cohort 36 Certified Savings Group Manager (CSGM)
The Field Practicum has taught me that theory is only the foundation; real learning happens when knowledge is put into practice. I have learned how to apply the skills gained throughout the training, from mobilising and forming savings groups to supporting leadership, record keeping, savings and loans management, conflict resolution and accountability.
I have also learned that a successful savings group requires trust, transparency, discipline and active participation from its members. As a Savings Group Manager, my role is not to control the group, but to guide, support and empower members and leaders to confidently manage their group.
Most importantly, this module has strengthened my confidence in working with communities and shown me that financial inclusion becomes meaningful when knowledge is transformed into action. The greatest success is not simply starting a savings group but helping members build a group that can remain strong and sustainable even without constant support.
Lucius Manyamba white Malawi 🇲🇼 Certification CSGM Cohort 36
I have learnt that the field practicum is where knowledge is transformed into practical skills. It has shown me that understanding savings groups in theory is not enough; the real impact comes from applying that knowledge within the community. As the person who is representing KAFI hub I need to show accuracy transparency and accountability when teaching and observing the groups
I have learned that practical field experience is essential in turning knowledge into meaningful community impact. Through my training and engagement in community health activities, I have come to understand that financial empowerment is closely linked to the overall wellbeing and resilience of individuals and families. As a Certified Savings Group Manager, I have gained practical knowledge in group formation, leadership, savings management, record keeping, conflict resolution, and member empowerment. This experience has strengthened my understanding of how well-managed savings groups can promote financial inclusion, independence, and community development. More importantly, I have learned that sustainable change requires not only knowledge, but also trust, effective leadership, accountability, and genuine engagement with the communities being served.
Obed Chisanga Zambia Cohort 38 Your goal is to establish a functional, sustainable savings group that serves the needs of its members.
Start by mapping your target community. Identify people with shared financial goals and trust. Host an interest meeting. Use clear language to explain how a savings group benefits them personally. Gauge commitment. Only work with those who are willing to attend regularly and participate actively. Facilitate the selection of members. Ensure a balance of skills and financial backgrounds. Oversee a transparent election for the Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer. Ensure the process is democratic. Hold a mock session. Practice opening the box, checking records, and collecting savings. Hold a mock session. Practice opening the box, checking records, and collecting savings. During the first four meetings, step back. Let the leaders lead while you observe and coach. Does the Chair keep time? Is the Secretary accurate? Coach them on professional meeting etiquette. Help them pick a name and a vision. A group with an identity is more likely to stick together. Your assessment is based on three pillars: Financial Accuracy, Member Attendance, and Rule Compliance. As your practicum ends, slowly reduce your presence. Ensure they can function without you. Check the physical security of the group's cash storage one last time. Ensure your work in the field was honorable and transparent. You represent the KAFI brand.
Monica Nelima Linyonyi Kenya Cohort 37 This module has deepened my understanding of the practical steps and prerequisites needed to apply the knowledge gained from the first module.
I have learned how to establish, organize and launch Savings Groups within communities and how to effectively support their implementation. Most importantly, the module has shown me how Savings Groups can promote financial inclusion, a culture of saving and community empowerment.
From Module 8, I learnt that theory becomes meaningful when it is put into practice. The main goal of a field practicum is to establish a functional and sustainable savings group that can continue operating independently.
I learnt that members should be involved in creating their own constitution and rules so that they feel responsible for the group. For example, instead of imposing rules on members, I would guide them to agree on how much they save, how loans are given, and how disputes are handled.
I also learnt the importance of leading by observing. During the first few meetings, I should allow the elected leaders to take responsibility while I observe, coach and support them. This helps build confident and self-sufficient leaders.
Another lesson was dispute mediation. If members disagree, I learnt that the constitution should be used to guide the solution rather than relying on personal opinions or taking sides. For example, if a member fails to repay a loan on time, the group should follow the agreed rules on late payments.
I also learnt the importance of monitoring loan repayments early. If a member misses a payment, it should be addressed immediately before the problem becomes a larger default.
Finally, I learnt that trust and accurate records are essential. During a cash count, members should be able to see that the money is accounted for, and surprise audits can confirm that the cash matches the ledger. At the end of the practicum, I should gradually step back so that the group can operate successfully without depending on me.
Overall, I learnt that true success is not simply starting a savings group, but developing a group that is trusted, well-managed and capable of continuing on its own.
I learned that the field practicum provides an opportunity to apply financial literacy knowledge in real-life situations. It helped me improve my communication, teamwork, leadership, and community engagement skills. I also learned how to identify financial challenges, educate people, collect feedback, and measure the impact of financial literacy activities. The practicum strengthened my confidence and showed me the importance of serving and empowering communities.
Cohort 40 Zimbabwe From this module, I have gained a deeper understanding of the prerequisites and practical steps required to apply the knowledge and skills acquired from the first module. The module has equipped me with the necessary knowledge to facilitate the establishment and launch of Savings Groups within communities. It has also enhanced my understanding of how Savings Groups can be introduced, organized, and effectively implemented to promote financial inclusion, savings, and community empowerment
My name is Amy Misora from Zimbabwe in the Cohort 40. In this final chapter I learned how to apply the knowledge and skills from the training in a practical setting. It helped me understand group management, savings, record keeping, communication, and problem-solving through real-life experience.
Olawuyi Ayorinde Oluwabunmi Cohort 45 Country Nigeria
These lessons have changed the way I think about money and have given me the confidence to make better financial decisions. Beyond the financial knowledge, the fellowship taught me the importance of leadership, integrity, teamwork, accountability, and empowering others. I now understand that financial literacy is a powerful tool that can help individuals, families, and communities break the cycle of poverty and build a more secure future. The knowledge and skills I have gained have inspired me to take action. I will soon be introducing the Future Finance Program, which aims to empower young people and adults with practical financial literacy skills. My goal is to help others develop healthy financial habits, make informed financial decisions, and achieve financial independence.
Wilson Stenala Cohort 7 Country: Malawi Borrow to profit not to consume. This module prepares us to practice all the basic financial literacy skills in order to have successful saving groups. Proper planning, careful implementation, clear monitoring and good evaluation.
Leader should reflect on what is happening and what was planned in order to follow a good direction.
Tatenda Macdonald Haruzivi
ReplyDeleteField Practicum Module
Cohort 20
From this module l have learnt the prerequisites necessary to practically put into practice the knowledge acquired from the first module. This where by a Savings Group will be launched in communities.
From this module l have learnt the prerequisites necessary to practically put into practice the knowledge acquired from the first module.
ReplyDeleteThrough the field practicum, I was able to put these skills into practice within a real community, which boosted my confidence in supporting savings groups
ReplyDeleteFull Name: Madalo Jobe
ReplyDeleteCohort:30
Certification: Community Finance Pathway (Certified Savings Group r CSGM)
*Summary of what I have learnt*
The Certified Saving Group Manager (CSGM) program provided me with essential knowledge and hands on skills in establishing, managing, and digitizing community savings groups. I learned how to build strong governance structures, oversee savings and loan activities, keep accurate records, calculate share-outs, and handle conflict resolution effectively. I also gained practical experience in applying digital tools to enhance record keeping and accountability. Through the field practicum, I was able to put these skills into practice within a real community, which boosted my confidence in supporting savings groups. Overall, this training has strengthened my capacity to advance financial inclusion, promote financial literacy, and contribute to sustainable community development.
Nontobeko Sengwayo
ReplyDeleteCohort 21
Kingdom of Eswatini 🇸🇿
Summary
Completing the KAFI certified savings group manager program has been a life-changing experience for me. Throughout the course, I gained practical knowledge about budgeting, saving, investing, responsible borrowing, financial record keeping, savings group formation and governance, savings and loan management, share-out and profit distribution, and digital financial management. These lessons have changed the way I think about money and have given me the confidence to make better financial decisions.
Beyond the financial knowledge, the fellowship taught me the importance of leadership, integrity, teamwork, accountability, and empowering others. I now understand that financial literacy is a powerful tool that can help individuals, families, and communities break the cycle of poverty and build a more secure future.
The knowledge and skills I have gained have inspired me to take action. I will soon be introducing the Future Finance Program, which aims to empower young people and adults with practical financial literacy skills. My goal is to help others develop healthy financial habits, make informed financial decisions, and achieve financial independence.
I am grateful to KAFI for investing in my personal and leadership development. This fellowship has strengthened my passion for financial education, and I look forward to using what I have learned to create a positive impact in my community.
From this module, I have gained a deeper understanding of the prerequisites and practical steps required to apply the knowledge and skills acquired from the first module. The module has equipped me with the necessary knowledge to facilitate the establishment and launch of Savings Groups within communities. It has also enhanced my understanding of how Savings Groups can be introduced, organized, and effectively implemented to promote financial inclusion, savings, and community empowerment
ReplyDeleteThokozani Dzantuleni
ReplyDeleteCohort 27
Certified Saving Group Manager
Lesson: Knowledge and skills are to be put into action and as a Group Savings Manager, make sure you guide the group you are leading in every step and also ensure that they maintain accuracy, attendance and compliance.
This module , I have learnt to practice every module inorder to master from every theory. Out of this I was brought to think of Village Savings Loans that slack behind in some of the procedures in managing their group. This module helped me address the gaps faced and I managed to work VSLGs to correct on Cash books, digitalisation of records.
ReplyDeleteAdewuyi Anuoluwapo Damilola
ReplyDeleteCohort 6
Nigeria
Certified Savings group manager (CSGM)
This is a pratical step and trust is really needed in that journey.every lasting savings union is built on integrity and trust.
Name: Faston Bwanali
ReplyDeleteCohort: 20
Certificate: Certified Savings Group Manager (CSGM) – Community Finance Pathway
What I have learned:
I have learned that field practicum is the bridge between knowledge and real-world application. Practical experience is essential in understanding how savings groups operate, addressing challenges, and supporting communities to build strong financial systems. Through field engagement, a Community Savings Group Manager gains skills in group formation, governance, financial management, conflict resolution, and member empowerment. Theory provides the foundation, but practice builds the confidence, leadership, and experience needed to create lasting impact in communities.
Name: Mphatso Khuaulee
ReplyDeleteCountry: Malawi
Cohort: 8
MODULE 8 SUMMARY
Tne field objective and goal is to establish a functional, and sustainable savings group that serves the needs of its members. The first step is the community outreach by mapping the target community through mobilization drive to sell the benefit of the savings group. Another step is to draft the group and facilitate the selection of leadership, thus Chair, Secretary and Treasurer, and ensure that the process is democratic. During the first meeting, savings group manager should lead by observing through letting the elected leaders to lead, while coach them on meeting facilitation. Make the members to understand about the attendance tracking as a core part of their financial commitment. Review and check ledger and point out and collect the errors. When the disputes arise during practicum, facilitate the a resolution by using the rules and not personal opinions. In addition, show the group how to track their progress and delinquency management, besides, encourage social bond to sustain financial ones. And members should be helped to on group identity (name and vision), because it helps to stick group members together.
The field assessment should be based on three pillars, which are Financial Accuracy, Member Attendance and Rule Compliance, to help the group to survive. Assess all members regularly, especially during cash count, and document success because stories validate the impact. Observe and identify the group weaknesses, and build a fix for it now. As practicum goes to an end, find the exit plan to ensure that the group can function on its own. Conduct a fina feedback session and listen to the field. Compile the report observation consists of the success, challenges and lessons learned, and that experience helps to build a case study for future KAFI students. Finally, encourage group members to stay in touch with the KAFI Foundation for advanced training and support.
Cohort: 30
ReplyDeleteCertification: Certified Savings Group Manager (CSGM) – Community Finance Pathway
I have learned that establishing a functional and sustainable savings group requires careful planning, proper member selection, and strong financial education. A successful group should have members with diverse skills and financial backgrounds who can work together toward common goals. I learned the importance of educating members about responsible borrowing, the difference between harmful debt and productive credit, and carefully reviewing loan applications. I also learned that clear financial reporting and progress tracking through dashboards help members understand the group’s performance and stay motivated. Overall, proper guidance, transparency, and good management are essential for building a strong and sustainable savings group.
Thelmah Kabamba 🇿🇲
ReplyDeleteCohort 27
Certified Savings Group Manager (CSGM) – Community Finance Pathway
I have learnt that the field practicum is where knowledge is transformed into practical skills. It has shown me that understanding savings groups in theory is not enough; the real impact comes from applying that knowledge within the community.
I have also learnt how important proper mobilization, leadership, financial record keeping, member participation, rule compliance and conflict resolution are when establishing and managing a savings group. As a Savings Group Manager, my role is not only to guide members but also to empower them to eventually manage the group confidently on their own.
Most importantly, theory is learned, but practice is earned. This practicum has strengthened my confidence and shown me that financial inclusion becomes meaningful when knowledge is put into action to create lasting change in communities.
Joseph Kiringi
ReplyDeleteCohort 9
Kenya
Field Practicum
During community outreach Start where there is already trust.
Sell the benefit of having a saving group, not the product.
Only work with those who are willing to attend regularly and participate actively. Commitment is the filter for success.
Ensure a balance of skills and financial backgrounds of group members. Diversity strengthens group resilience.
Guide the group to write their own constitution. It must be 'by the members, for the members'
Oversee a transparent election for the Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer. Ensure the process is democratic
In the first meeting practice opening the box, checking records, and collecting savings
Ensure the Treasurer handles the cash correctly from day one. Publicly verify all counts
Explain the dangers of debt and the power of productive credit.Borrow to build, not to consume.
Let the leaders lead while you observe and coach during the initial meetings
Coach the leaders on professional meeting etiquette.
Enforce the register. Make members understand that attendance is a core part of their financial commitment
Review the ledger after each meeting. Point out errors before they become habits.
If conflict arises during your practicum, facilitate a resolution using the group's constitution
Help the Secretary prepare the first monthly report. Ensure it is clear and presented to all.
Show the group how to track their progress. A visual growth chart is a massive motivator.
Monitor the first loan cycle and address any late payment immediately
Encourage the group to have a 'social' element—a cup of tea or a short lesson at the end of meetings.
Help them pick a name and a vision. A group with an identity is more likely to stick together
Your assessment is based on three pillars: Financial Accuracy, Member Attendance, and Rule Compliance.
Watch the members during a cash count. Do they look confident or suspicious? Trust is visible in the eyes.
Perform a surprise audit
Take photos of the group in action. Record their success stories for their tell your impact
Identify weaknesses and build a fix for it immediately
Scale potential for the next level
As your practicum ends, slowly reduce your presence. Ensure they can function without you. True success is being unnecessary.
Celebrate the group’s completion of their first month. Celebration reinforces the habit.
Write down your observations: successes, challenges, and lessons learned. This is your professional portfolio.
Ensure your work in the field was honorable and transparent. Integrity is your brand identity
Full Name: Othelloe T. Wagboe Jr.
ReplyDeleteCohort: 34
Certification: Certified Savings Group Manager (CSGM)
Summary of What I Learned:
Through the Field Practicum, I learned how the knowledge and skills gained from the training can be applied in a practical community setting. The practicum helped me understand the importance of effective communication, proper group management, accurate record keeping, savings and loans management, and teamwork when working with savings groups.
I also learned that managing a savings group requires patience, accountability, transparency, and the ability to work closely with members. Practical experience makes it easier to identify challenges, support members, and apply appropriate solutions.
As a future Certified Savings Group Manager, the Field Practicum has strengthened my confidence in applying what I have learned to real-life situations. I believe these practical skills will enable me to support savings groups effectively, promote financial inclusion, and contribute to the economic empowerment of individuals and communities.
Lovemore Mabishe
ReplyDeleteZimbabwe
Cohort 33
Certificate. Certified Savings group manager
Knowledge learned should be shared with the community for them to be able to use
ReplyDeleteThrough the Field Practicum, I learned how the knowledge and skills gained from the training can be applied in a practical community setting, therefore it is recommended to share your work in the field was honorable and transparent. You represent the KAFI brand.
ReplyDeleteQueen Nkhata
ReplyDeleteMalawi | Cohort 36
Certified Savings Group Manager (CSGM)
The Field Practicum has taught me that theory is only the foundation; real learning happens when knowledge is put into practice. I have learned how to apply the skills gained throughout the training, from mobilising and forming savings groups to supporting leadership, record keeping, savings and loans management, conflict resolution and accountability.
I have also learned that a successful savings group requires trust, transparency, discipline and active participation from its members. As a Savings Group Manager, my role is not to control the group, but to guide, support and empower members and leaders to confidently manage their group.
Most importantly, this module has strengthened my confidence in working with communities and shown me that financial inclusion becomes meaningful when knowledge is transformed into action. The greatest success is not simply starting a savings group but helping members build a group that can remain strong and sustainable even without constant support.
Lucius Manyamba white
DeleteMalawi 🇲🇼
Certification CSGM
Cohort 36
I have learnt that the field practicum is where knowledge is transformed into practical skills. It has shown me that understanding savings groups in theory is not enough; the real impact comes from applying that knowledge within the community. As the person who is representing KAFI hub I need to show accuracy transparency and accountability when teaching and observing the groups
Sarah isaac Oladokun
Delete🇬🇭 ghana
Cohort 5 Q
I have learned that practical field experience is essential in turning knowledge into meaningful community impact. Through my training and engagement in community health activities, I have come to understand that financial empowerment is closely linked to the overall wellbeing and resilience of individuals and families. As a Certified Savings Group Manager, I have gained practical knowledge in group formation, leadership, savings management, record keeping, conflict resolution, and member empowerment. This experience has strengthened my understanding of how well-managed savings groups can promote financial inclusion, independence, and community development. More importantly, I have learned that sustainable change requires not only knowledge, but also trust, effective leadership, accountability, and genuine engagement with the communities being served.
Obed Chisanga
ReplyDeleteZambia
Cohort 38
Your goal is to establish a functional, sustainable savings group that serves the needs of its members.
Start by mapping your target community. Identify people with shared financial goals and trust.
Host an interest meeting. Use clear language to explain how a savings group benefits them personally.
Gauge commitment. Only work with those who are willing to attend regularly and participate actively.
Facilitate the selection of members. Ensure a balance of skills and financial backgrounds.
Oversee a transparent election for the Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer. Ensure the process is democratic.
Hold a mock session. Practice opening the box, checking records, and collecting savings.
Hold a mock session. Practice opening the box, checking records, and collecting savings.
During the first four meetings, step back. Let the leaders lead while you observe and coach.
Does the Chair keep time? Is the Secretary accurate? Coach them on professional meeting etiquette.
Help them pick a name and a vision. A group with an identity is more likely to stick together.
Your assessment is based on three pillars: Financial Accuracy, Member Attendance, and Rule Compliance.
As your practicum ends, slowly reduce your presence. Ensure they can function without you.
Check the physical security of the group's cash storage one last time.
Ensure your work in the field was honorable and transparent. You represent the KAFI brand.
Monica Nelima Linyonyi
ReplyDeleteKenya
Cohort 37
This module has deepened my understanding of the practical steps and prerequisites needed to apply the knowledge gained from the first module.
I have learned how to establish, organize and launch Savings Groups within communities and how to effectively support their implementation.
Most importantly, the module has shown me how Savings Groups can promote financial inclusion, a culture of saving and community empowerment.
Ebenezer Ndhlovu 🇿🇼cohort 40
ReplyDeleteFrom Module 8, I learnt that theory becomes meaningful when it is put into practice. The main goal of a field practicum is to establish a functional and sustainable savings group that can continue operating independently.
I learnt that members should be involved in creating their own constitution and rules so that they feel responsible for the group. For example, instead of imposing rules on members, I would guide them to agree on how much they save, how loans are given, and how disputes are handled.
I also learnt the importance of leading by observing. During the first few meetings, I should allow the elected leaders to take responsibility while I observe, coach and support them. This helps build confident and self-sufficient leaders.
Another lesson was dispute mediation. If members disagree, I learnt that the constitution should be used to guide the solution rather than relying on personal opinions or taking sides. For example, if a member fails to repay a loan on time, the group should follow the agreed rules on late payments.
I also learnt the importance of monitoring loan repayments early. If a member misses a payment, it should be addressed immediately before the problem becomes a larger default.
Finally, I learnt that trust and accurate records are essential. During a cash count, members should be able to see that the money is accounted for, and surprise audits can confirm that the cash matches the ledger. At the end of the practicum, I should gradually step back so that the group can operate successfully without depending on me.
Overall, I learnt that true success is not simply starting a savings group, but developing a group that is trusted, well-managed and capable of continuing on its own.
Kenneth James
ReplyDeleteCohort 39
Malawi
I learned that the field practicum provides an opportunity to apply financial literacy knowledge in real-life situations. It helped me improve my communication, teamwork, leadership, and community engagement skills. I also learned how to identify financial challenges, educate people, collect feedback, and measure the impact of financial literacy activities. The practicum strengthened my confidence and showed me the importance of serving and empowering communities.
Cohort 40
ReplyDeleteZimbabwe
From this module, I have gained a deeper understanding of the prerequisites and practical steps required to apply the knowledge and skills acquired from the first module. The module has equipped me with the necessary knowledge to facilitate the establishment and launch of Savings Groups within communities. It has also enhanced my understanding of how Savings Groups can be introduced, organized, and effectively implemented to promote financial inclusion, savings, and community empowerment
My name is Amy Misora from Zimbabwe in the Cohort 40. In this final chapter I learned how to apply the knowledge and skills from the training in a practical setting. It helped me understand group management, savings, record keeping, communication, and problem-solving through real-life experience.
ReplyDeleteOlawuyi Ayorinde Oluwabunmi
ReplyDeleteCohort 45
Country Nigeria
These lessons have changed the way I think about money and have given me the confidence to make better financial decisions.
Beyond the financial knowledge, the fellowship taught me the importance of leadership, integrity, teamwork, accountability, and empowering others. I now understand that financial literacy is a powerful tool that can help individuals, families, and communities break the cycle of poverty and build a more secure future.
The knowledge and skills I have gained have inspired me to take action. I will soon be introducing the Future Finance Program, which aims to empower young people and adults with practical financial literacy skills. My goal is to help others develop healthy financial habits, make informed financial decisions, and achieve financial independence.
Wilson Stenala
ReplyDeleteCohort 7
Country: Malawi
Borrow to profit not to consume. This module prepares us to practice all the basic financial literacy skills in order to have successful saving groups. Proper planning, careful implementation, clear monitoring and good evaluation.
Leader should reflect on what is happening and what was planned in order to follow a good direction.
Ishmail Kamara
ReplyDeleteCohort 41
Sierra Leone
Gauge commitment. Only work with those who are willing to attend regularly and participate actively.