COFFEE shops are generally the place of many students opt to go for study when the libraries are closed or young professionals, who want to catch up with some work after office hours.
The coffee shops, however, are not always the quietest and best place to go to do work or study as it can be noisy at times. The WiFi at some establishments are also not that great. The beverage and food can also be quite expensive.
Some students would also transfer to fast food chains, which operate 24/7, when some of the coffee shops close at midnight.
"We saw students studying in fast food chains, which is very inconvenient for them since the place can be noisy," Revsan Elizalde, one of the partners of Seekhana, told SunStar Davao.
He added that during his college days, he also had the similar experience of sometimes having to study at a coffee shop or a fast food chain.
Elizalde saw this as an opportunity and pitched it to his friends, who are his business partners.
Then in September 2016, Seekhana Study Hub Cafe opened its doors at Bella Vie Building, Marfori Heights, Circumferential Road to young professionals and students in a bid to provide them with a quiet and conduceive place to study and work.
Elizalde said “seekhana” is a Hindi word meaning “learn.”
He said one of their biggest concern in establishing the study hub was tailoring it to fit the needs of their target market, the students, in terms of the rates they offer. Eventually, they were able to come up with rates and packages that will be easy on the wallet of the students.
They have walk-in and memberships rates. They have three packages for their membership rates, 40 hours (P749), 60 hours (P999), and 100 hours (P1,499). The membership rates can be consumed any time and are good for one month. The package includes unlimited brewed coffee and free Wifi.
Walk-in rates are at P100 for three hours and P200 for 24 hours. This packages also includes free Wifi and unlimited brewed coffee.
Aside from the affordable rates, Elizalde said they have also placed emphasis in ensuring that quality service is provided to their customers.
Seekhana Study Hub Cafe also offers meals and beverages, napping kit, and print, copy, and scan services.
The cafe features cubicles for individuals who want to study or work without being disturbed. There are also tables and chairs that cater to groups or pairs who plan to go here. Power outlets are also strategically placed around the cafe.
Looking forward, Elizalde said they are eyeing to expand or add another branch in the city where it will be accessible to students and also ready for their operations.