The innobiz Durban University of Technology (DUT) Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation recently hosted its 2023 two-day Personal Development Programme that was purposefully aimed at enhancing entrepreneurial intelligence and discerning self-awareness, following the Hackathon bootcamp.

Student entrepreneurs who were successful at the bootcamp were invited for a two-day Personal Development Programme facilitated by the X-axis Experience Group. The programme was hosted at the ML Sultan campus on the first day and Virginia Beach on the second day.

Day One of the 2023 Personal Development Programme, innobiz DUT Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation Agri-specialist, Dr Harry Swatson welcomed and congratulated entrepreneurs who had been selected to be part of the Programme and he expressed his gratitude on behalf of innobiz DUT for all attendees. The day started with a concealed business pitch in the form of introductions facilitated by the X-axis Experience Group, the emphasis being the importance of knowing how to market your business when introducing yourself as an entrepreneur.

The innobiz DUT Centre Manager, Ms Nontokozo Ngcobo addressed students on the importance of personal development in entrepreneurship. “This is part of your development as entrepreneurs, the centre does not only focus on the entrepreneurship element, but the aim is to develop all of you holistically. Interpersonal skills are crucial in business as it ensures that when you graduate from this Programme, you are well rounded entrepreneurs that can build sustainable businesses,” explained Ngcobo.

The Personal Development Programme included activities of the day such as ‘personal value sharing’, and ‘chain message’ to name a few. These activities were aimed at exercising entrepreneurs bargaining skills, considering both selling and buying propositions in the field of business. Moreover, it was to equip entrepreneurs with listening and communication expertise.

Day Two of the Personal Development Programme was an outdoor session that included activities such as ‘Blind square’ and ‘water bucket’ aimed at strengthening the trustworthiness and communication skills by minimising conflicts in the field of business.

Student entrepreneurs commended the Centre for providing a holistic programme that does not only focus on developing businesses but includes holistic development of entrepreneurs as well.

Pictured: Student entrepreneurs during the Personal Development Programme.

Photographer: Nontethelelo Mzizi.

Khonzinkosi Magcaba