The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Centre for Social Entrepreneurship and Rapid Incubator (CSERI) officially inducted 51 entrepreneurs into its 2026/2027 Incubation Programme at the Durban Botanic Gardens. The session marked the formal commencement of a structured support journey designed to equip small business owners with the tools, networks, and knowledge required to grow sustainable enterprises.
The cohort represents a diverse cross-section of the entrepreneurial ecosystem, with participants drawn from sectors including manufacturing, logistics, fashion, information technology, hospitality, education, agriculture, and engineering. Of the 51 entrepreneurs inducted, 59% are female and 41% are male. Approximately 82% are community-based entrepreneurs, while 13% are DUT alumni, reflecting the university’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent in line with its ENVISION2030 strategic goals.
The induction session was facilitated by Ms Nonkosi Nyawose, Business Development Officer at CSERI, who warmly welcomed the new cohort. She acknowledged the significance of their acceptance into the programme and set the tone for a session centred on collaboration, transparency, and professional development.
In his address, CSERI Director Mr Solomon Nyamurima congratulated the entrepreneurs and emphasised the foundational principles that underpin the programme. He noted that networking, transparency, and honesty among entrepreneurs are essential elements of a successful incubation experience. Mr Nyamurima introduced participants to DUT’s values and principles, provided an overview of the centre’s incubation services, and outlined the programme structure, objectives, expected outcomes, and service flow designed to guide entrepreneurs throughout the incubation period.
A highlight of the session was the testimony of CSERI alumnus Mr Phakamani Ndlovu, founder of Phakamani Empowerments, who shared his incubation journey and the impact it had on his business. He credited the programme with equipping him with critical skills and discipline that enabled him to access funding and secure notable awards. He encouraged the new cohort to maintain consistent communication and apply the knowledge gained throughout the programme.
The session also provided space for entrepreneurs to share their expectations and engage with the CSERI team on matters relating to compliance, financial support, post-incubation assistance, and broader business development. The active participation and enthusiasm of attendees reflected a strong readiness to engage with the programme.
Among the inductees, Ms Nondumiso Mndebele, Director of OLUMS, expressed her anticipation for the journey ahead, noting that the programme would support further growth and partnership development, particularly within the business to business space. Similarly, Mr Simphiwe Gift Nxele, founder of SGN Bookkeeping and Advisory, highlighted the value of collective learning, stating that the programme offers an opportunity to both share knowledge and learn from fellow entrepreneurs.
CSERI continues to play a pivotal role in DUT’s broader mission of fostering inclusive economic development. Through structured incubation support, the centre contributes to job creation, community upliftment, and the development of a resilient small business sector in KwaZulu-Natal.
Ms Nyawose closed the induction session by thanking the entrepreneurs for their participation and reaffirming CSERI’s commitment to supporting their growth throughout the programme.
Pictured: CSERI Director Mr Solomon Nyamurima
Photographer: Luvuyo Mntambo
Snelisiwe Hlongwane
