Shaping a new generation of entrepreneurs

In celebration of Student Entrepreneurship Week (SEW) 2024, the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Research (CEDAR) at SPU hosted a special one-day event titled Student Entrepreneurship Day 2024 under the theme #Educators4Entrepreneurship. This initiative highlights SPU’s commitment to integrating entrepreneurship education into all student learning, equipping them with essential skills to become self-sustaining entrepreneurs.

A key focus of the event was fostering collaboration between SPU and the Northern Cape TVET College, further enhancing student entrepreneurship development in the region. The event showcased the support offered to studentpreneurs in higher education and provided them with exhibition spaces to share their entrepreneurial journeys and achievements.

Prof Pierre Joubert, Dean of the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, set the tone for the day, urging students to approach entrepreneurship practically. He shared stories of successful entrepreneurs who, despite adversity, thrived in their ventures, reinforcing the belief that resilience and innovation are key to success. Prof Ricardo Peters, Director of CEDAR, emphasised the critical role of entrepreneurial theory and the innovative thinking required at institutions of higher learning, a vision deeply aligned with SPU’s goal to produce graduates capable of transforming society.

The event included remarks from Mr Sandile Shabalala of the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE), who commended SPU’s contributions to fostering student entrepreneurship. Mr Thabo Mokoena from the Northern Cape TVET College also introduced a student entrepreneur who shared their journey, highlighting the invaluable support from their campus.

Mr Chad Lucas, Officer at SPU’s Economic Activation Office (EAO), presented CEDAR’s services and introduced the inaugural CEDAR Studentpreneur of the Year Awards, recognising students who have excelled in entrepreneurship. These awards aim to nurture entrepreneurial talent, offering resources and guidance to enable students to turn ideas into impactful businesses.

A standout moment came from Thembani Mavunda, a second-year BSc Mathematical and Computer Science student, conveyed how CEDAR and the EAO were pivotal in helping him register his company and develop a product prototype. His story is a testament to SPU’s commitment to supporting student entrepreneurs in realising their potential and contributing to the economic development of the region.

The keynote speaker, Mr Willem Gous, an award-winning entrepreneur, delivered a masterclass based on his book Side Hustle Success. Gous provided practical exercises for building a business, encouraging students to tap into the resources they already possess to start their entrepreneurial journeys. His workshop culminated in a live pitch contest where students showcased their businesses, highlighting the practical, hands-on learning approach embraced by SPU.

The CEDAR Studentpreneur of the Year Awards celebrated students excelling in four categories:

  • Innovation and Prototype of the Year: Thembani Mavunda
  • Promising Techpreneur: Calson Netshikulwe
  • Social Impact Project of the Year: ENACTUS Farmily
  • Servant Leader of the Year: Thato Saul & Lethabo Mmuiemang

The students were awarded this recognition based on their involvement in CEDAR projects and programmes, and their use of resources and services provided at the Centre to excel in their entrepreneurial journeys. Winners received cash prizes and copies of Side Hustle Success to further support their entrepreneurial pursuits.

Through initiatives like Student Entrepreneurship Day, SPU strengthens its role as a leader in fostering entrepreneurial talent, aligning with its mission to produce graduates who tackle societal challenges and contribute to economic growth. This Entrepreneurship event empowered students with the skills to not only uplift themselves but also to drive positive change within their communities.

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