Bernard Bett is currently pursuing an International Action Learning MBA at Business School Netherlands (BSN). Based in Kenya, Bernard has over 10 years of experience in monitoring and evaluating agricultural programmes, focusing among others on smallholder farmers in the dairy and poultry sectors. Through his work with international organisations and projects funded by USAID, the UN, and the World Bank, Bernard is dedicated to improving agricultural development practices and outcomes.
Q: Hi Bernard, thank you for joining us. Can you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
Bernard Bett: Thank you for having me. My name is Bernard Bett, and I come from Kenya. I work with international organisations in Kenya, primarily focusing on monitoring and evaluating programs for smallholder farmers in the dairy, poultry, and other agricultural sectors. I have over 10 years of experience in this field, working with various donors including USAID, the UN, and the World Bank.
Q: What motivated you to pursue an MBA, and why did you choose Business School Netherlands (BSN)?
Bernard: I chose to pursue an MBA because I wanted to enhance my skills and knowledge to better address the challenges in agricultural development. I chose BSN because it allows me to work while studying, thanks to its Action Learning methodology. This approach is practical and hands-on, allowing us to tackle real-world problems while we learn. It’s a perfect fit for me because it integrates learning with my work.
Q: How has the Action Learning methodology impacted your learning and professional growth?
Bernard: The Action Learning methodology at BSN has been very beneficial. It’s practical rather than theoretical, which means we are dealing with actual problems as we study. For example, in one of our courses, we focused on agricultural extension methods. By applying what we learned, we could determine the most effective methods for working with smallholder farmers. This approach has already shown benefits, and I’m confident it will continue to do so.
Q: Can you give an example of how you are applying Action Learning in your work?
Bernard: Yes, one example is in making strategic decisions for smallholder farmers. We used Action Learning to decide on the best agricultural extension methods that would work for them. This practical application of our studies has helped improve our decision-making processes and has been beneficial for our programmes. By the end of my MBA, I expect to see even more benefits from this approach.
Q: How has the international aspect of BSN’s programme influenced your experience?
Bernard: Meeting my fellow students in person has been a great experience. Before, we interacted online, but meeting face-to-face has enhanced our learning and collaboration. We’ve been able to share experiences and learn from each other, which has been very enriching. The professors have also been very insightful, opening my eyes to new possibilities and ways to utilise my skills and knowledge.
Q: How was your experience at the physical conference in the Netherlands?
Bernard: The conference was fantastic. It provided an environment where we could tackle various issues from our organisations and put our learning into practice. Sharing and discussing these issues with colleagues and professors was very valuable. It was an intense but rewarding experience that has been very practical and eye-opening.
Q: What key insights have you gained that you plan to implement in your work?
Bernard: One key insight is the importance of strategy improvement. I’ve already started sharing some of these insights with my organisation, particularly in enhancing our strategies. Although the programme has been intense and there hasn’t been much time to communicate back home, the few ideas I have shared have been well received and will be implemented.
Q: What do you see as the broader impact of your MBA on your organisation and the agricultural sector?
Bernard: The broader impact of my MBA will be significant. By integrating Action Learning into our practices, we can foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement. This approach helps us address challenges more effectively and contributes to the advancement of agricultural development in our region.
Q: Any final thoughts on your journey with BSN?
Bernard: My experience at BSN has been transformative. The Action Learning methodology has highlighted the importance of practical, hands-on learning in addressing complex issues. As I continue to apply my newfound skills and knowledge, I hope to inspire other professionals in the agricultural sector to enhance their impact through advanced education and collaborative learning.
Q: Thank you so much, Bernard, for sharing your insights. We wish you all the best in your journey and future endeavours.
Bernard: Thank you very much. I’m looking forward to graduating and making significant contributions to agricultural development and beyond.
