The University recently hosted an enlightening “Entrepreneurship is for Everyone” event to mark the Global Entrepreneurship Week. Organised by the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development in partnership with Visa, the event held on 14 November, emphasised the importance of entrepreneurship and financial literacy.
A highlight of the occasion was R10,000 SEED Fund awarded to ten diligent Hospitality students who participated in the Entrepreneurship Work Integrated Learning (eWIL) programme, made possible by the generosity of the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality, and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA).
In her opening and welcoming address, Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, DVC: Research, Innovation and Engagement emphasised the role of partnerships in building an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. She extended the University’s gratitude to the Banking Association of South Africa, Visa, CATHSSETA and all other stakeholders for their commitment to this initiative.
“As we embark on this journey, we should remember that the goal of entrepreneurship extends beyond profit. It is about creating solutions, generating employment and addressing the socio-economic challenges that face our society. By embracing this vision, we can contribute to an economy where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and entrepreneurship truly reflects the diversity of our communities,” she said.
Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, DVC: Research, Innovation
and Engagement welcoming the guests.
“I encourage all students to engage fully, connect with mentors and peers and embrace the wealth of knowledge that will be shared. Remember that the journey of entrepreneurship is one of continuous learning and growth and we are here to support you every step of the way,” she added.
Outlining the event's purpose, Dr Edgar Nesamvuni, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences, reaffirmed the University’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship through education. He discussed how the Faculty’s 2018 curriculum reform was designed to ensure graduates leave equipped as entrepreneurs.
“When students complete their studies, they should graduate as entrepreneurs. Our theme, ‘Entrepreneurship is for Everyone,’ reflects our aim to provide the necessary resources and skills to students to transform their ideas into sustainable businesses. In their third year, students spend six months focusing exclusively on their entrepreneurial projects,” he explained.
Dr Edgar Nesamvuni, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences outlining the purpose of the event.
Dr Nesamvuni highlighted the University’s extensive support systems, including entrepreneurship coaches stationed at the Polokwane, eMalahleni and Pretoria Campuses. These coaches are dedicated to mentoring students and helping them refine their business initiatives.
Advocate Mikateko Joyce Maluleke, Director-General of the Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, delivered the keynote address, stressing the importance of financial inclusion in promoting equitable economic participation. “We envision a society where everyone, regardless of gender, age, or disability, can participate fully and equally in our economy. Entrepreneurship is a powerful means to achieving this vision,” she asserted.
Adv Maluleke underlined the need for entrepreneurship to be accessible to all, particularly women, youth and persons with disabilities who often face exclusion from economic opportunities. She lauded the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and its partners for their unwavering commitment to inclusivity and excellence in fostering entrepreneurial talent.
Lebogang Mpye, Executive Manager for Learning Programmes at CATHSSETA, encouraged students to utilise their skills to succeed in a rapidly changing business environment. She acknowledged the inherent challenges of entrepreneurship, urging students to approach these hurdles as opportunities for personal and professional growth. “Surround yourselves with like-minded individuals who inspire and challenge you to achieve your full potential,” Mpye advised.
Mlamuli Mbambo, “Author of Winning the Money Game” and Dr Frank Magwegwe, Head of Financial Wellness and Advisory at Nedbank, presented valuable sessions on financial literacy and access to financial and non-financial support.
These discussions offered students practical guidance for managing finances and the far-reaching rewards of financial wellness. The NYDA provided an overview of their offerings for youth development and their commitment to supporting youth entrepreneurs, citing the partnership with TUT CED.
The event also featured motivational testimonials from successful entrepreneurs, Katlego Mogopodi, founder of Mogopodi Adventures and Katlego Ngakane, founder of KEK Adventures. Both shared how perseverance and a positive mindset enabled them to overcome significant challenges, inspiring students to remain determined in adversity.
According to Dr Patrick Ebewo, Head of TUT CED and Head of the Department of Entrepreneurship, this year’s Global Entrepreneurship Week celebration at the University was a resounding success, highlighting the transformative power of entrepreneurship in shaping a more inclusive and equitable economy.
“Through partnerships and structured support, the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development continues to provide opportunities to students to build sustainable businesses, contribute meaningfully to society and achieve economic independence. The University celebrates the inspiring efforts of its student entrepreneurs and its partners in advancing the entrepreneurial spirit and fostering a brighter, more inclusive future for all,” he concluded.
Advocate Mikateko Joyce Maluleke, Director-General
of the Department of Women, Youth, and Persons
with Disabilities giving the keynote address.