By Kgothatso Monono
Inspiring and supporting student-led startups within the ICT sector while nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset among the next generation of technology innovators, prompted the recent Student Entrepreneurship Day, hosted by the Faculty of Information and Communication Technology (FoICT) in collaboration with the Rail Manufacturing Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (RMCERI) at the Soshanguve Council Chambers.
The event provided a powerful platform for four student startup groups to pitch their business ventures:
- Technobyte Solution SA
- Innovate SA
- Illumdev Solutions
- Fortitude IT Solutions
Following the presentation of their respective innovative ideas to a panel of industry experts and key stakeholders, these professionals offered valuable feedback, guidance and support, helping the students to refine their concepts and elevate their businesses to the next level.
Industry professional, experts and key stakeholders offered valuable feedback, guidance and support to students.
In his inspiring opening address, Dr Robert Hans, Head of the Department of Computer Science, said: "Business has twists and turns, but one should not have sleepless nights and lose sight of the dream. Start that business and see where it can take you."
Vuyisile Memane, Lecturer and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Manager for Computer Science, also addressed the attendees, sharing the purpose and vision of the event, “The department is proud to produce more than just programmers, we strive to shape problem-solvers, innovators and entrepreneurs,” he said.
“The event aimed to give students the platform they need to acquire skills to succeed, both as employees, employers and business leaders. Through collaboration like the one with RMCERI, we can provide our students with the knowledge and skills they need to build sustainable businesses that will stand the test of time. We want to instill a mindset of creativity, resilience and determination, ensuring that our graduates are ready to make a difference in the rapidly evolving tech landscape,” Dr Hans added.
Prominent figures in the ICT industry who contributed to the success of the day included:
- Khayalethu Dlamini, Economic Development Facilitator at the Gauteng Department of Economic Development and representative for the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency (GGDA)
- Michelle Mazibuko, Business Development Officer at RMCERI
- Nkululeko Mabena, RMCERI Alum and founder of Spiral8Studio
Their presence underscored the critical importance of partnerships between academia, government and industry in supporting and nurturing student entrepreneurs. Through such collaboration the potential for building sustainable businesses that can create a meaningful economic impact is highlighted.
The event provided a powerful platform for four student startup groups to pitch their business ventures.