Kampo App is a one-stop shop for students on the go.
Started by students for students, the application provides learning materials, sample tests and more for university students eager to improve their learning and understanding of different concepts. Recently exhibiting at the annual Kenyatta University career week, the founders Stephen Kilelu Director Product Development, Ochieng Warren Director of Outreach and Abdi Adan Director of Innovation, have big plans for their startup. The trio spoke to The Sauce on how they developed and grew the app, that could revolutionize education in institutions of higher learning.
When did the app launch, and what inspired you to build it?
We launched the app on the 26th January 2019 during the Kenyatta University career week. This followed the completion of the 2.1.7 version with advanced features. We decided to build the app following difficulty of accessing notes and other revision materials especially with the onset of exams. With time we realized that students needed access to more services, information, and opportunities which made us add in more features. Currently, the students can get accommodation services, shopping, events, internships, seminars, jobs and conference information on the app.
What are the most challenging aspects of each member’s roles in the Kampo app?
Our roles were precisely selected according to each member’s ability. We believe we are all quite good at what we do and find it easy handling the tasks. The main challenge is the acquisition and allocation of resources.
How did you three meet?
Abdi and I were working on an artificial intelligence speaker when we met Steve. We were looking for an app developer and were referred to Steve. It was during the conversation that we came to know of the Kampo app and decided to work on it full time.
What has been the biggest hurdle in launching the app?
We consider getting the academic materials from the lecturers being the most challenging part in launching the app. We had to convince all the lecturers from the different schools to give us their notes.
Have your expectations of the success of the app been met?
Our expectation for the first quarter has been met since we have been able to surpass the 3,000 downloads target. Our social media engagement rates have also been very impressive.
What have you learned about business throughout the process of building the app?
The main lesson I have learned from the development of Kampo is rapid prototyping. I would encourage every young entrepreneur looking forward to launching a startup to embrace the lean startup way, never wait for the perfect conditions.
Any developments for the Kampo App in 2019?
We have great plans for the year 2019. We look forward to having to have the Kampo app launch in all Kenyan universities this year by May. We are working on partnerships with other university student leaders to ensure we get all the academic content. We hope to be the market leader for academic content in African universities in the next five years.
