The Student Governance and Development Unit in collaboration with Student Housing and Res Life at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), proudly recently hosted a successful and engaging virtual programme. This innovative initiative aimed to inspire and empower students to explore their entrepreneurial spirit, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among the DUT community.
The Student Entrepreneurship Programme was initiated in 2023, it had demonstrated significant growth, marked by successful implementations in 2024. DUT inspired students to participate in entrepreneurial initiatives and activities, nurturing their creative ideas and shaping their future as innovative thinkers and business leaders.
The Dean of Students, Dr Clement Moreku, warmly welcomed the esteemed guests and attendees for taking the time to participate in the programme, which will shape and refine students’ ideas, ultimately grooming them for entrepreneurial success and excellence.
He also mentioned that the biggest challenge facing South African youth is the alarmingly high unemployment rate, which stands at 45.5% for those aged 15 to 34 years, significantly higher than the national average of 32.9%. He further mentioned that unemployment rate for young women in South Africa is a staggering 49.4%.
He stated that entrepreneurship has become the last resort for economic growth, emphasising that through interventional activities, primarily driven by Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs), the economy can be stimulated and job opportunities created.
“According to the ENVISION2030 strategy, under the societal perspectives pillar, which emphasises innovation and entrepreneurship, we are all obligated, both staff and students, to ensure that students are equipped with entrepreneurial skills and knowledge,” said Dr Moreku.
DUT Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane, attended the programme and emphasised the university’s commitment to supporting students’ entrepreneurial endeavours. He highlighted that the existing infrastructure at DUT is designed to help students take their business plans to the next level.
He emphasised that after graduating, students should transform their knowledge into tangible actions and participation in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, making a meaningful impact in their communities.
Project facilitator, Lana Ann Brady, shared her enthusiasm for being involved in this initiative for the second time. She detailed the project’s structure, comprising a 12-week programme scheduled to conclude on the 13 September 2025. Brady encouraged students to develop innovative ideas and identify pressing community problems, with the programme’s kickoff set for 15 March 2025.
Director of Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE), Dr Edwell Gumbo shed light on the complex challenges facing young entrepreneurs in the 21st century.
He identified three key obstacles:
- Financial and resource constraints,
- Academic and time management challenge in balancing the academic and entrepreneurship,
- Market and ecosystem barriers.
He also mentioned the key entrepreneurship opportunities and skills, the rise of the digital economy and online business models, and university support structures such as incubators and mentorship. He also stated that the essential skills for entrepreneurs include creativity and problem-solving, financial literacy and resource management, resilience and adaptation, and networking and collaboration. He emphasised that entrepreneurship must provide a solution by fostering job creation through economic participation.
“The digital revolution presents a significant opportunity for entrepreneurs to harness innovative ideas, particularly through platforms like Artificial Intelligence. By leveraging AI, entrepreneurs can gain a competitive edge in their businesses. As we enter the 5th Industrial Revolution,” Dr Gumbo noted.
Mr Ngculu expressed his gratitude to Dr Edwell Gumbo for inspiring entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs to elevate their businesses. He emphasised that the government struggles to allocate a budget in Parliament due to limited funds. Therefore, he urged entrepreneurs to drive economic growth, as their success is crucial for the country’s economic development.
Pictured: Director of Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE), Dr Edwell Gumbo.
Photo: Supplied
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
