Entrepreneurship Programme boosts SMME growth in Tshwane

Emerging entrepreneurs received recognition, support and new growth opportunities as the Tshwane University of Technology’s Centre for Entrepreneurship Development celebrated graduates of its Enterprise and Supplier Development Programme while welcoming a new cohort under the theme “Igniting growth, unlocking markets and sustaining impact”. The initiative continues to strengthen local SMMEs through entrepreneurial training, compliance support and market access.

Prof Hlengani Mathebula The certification ceremony was a proud occasion as the outgoing cohort of the Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) Programme received certificates of compliance during a joint graduation and induction ceremony held at Irene Farm.

The ESD Programme is presented by the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CED) at the Tshwane School for Business and Society (TSB) in partnership with the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality and the Tshwane Economic Development Agency (TEDA).

During the event a new cohort of entrepreneurs was also welcomed under the theme “Igniting growth, unlocking markets and sustaining impact”. The occasion was yet another milestone for the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development following its formal integration into the Tshwane School for Business and Society.

Prof Hlengani Mathebula, Director of the Tshwane School for Business and Society, said the ESD Programme directly supports the University’s ISP 2030 vision of entrepreneuring the future together.

Mathebula explained that the Tshwane School for Business and Society aims to pioneer leaders who create meaningful impact in business and society. He added that the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development plays a central role in advancing this vision by providing start-up and emerging SMMEs with access to entrepreneurial education and resources.

Cllr Dr Nasiphi Moya Cllr Dr Nasiphi Moya, Executive Mayor of the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, delivered the keynote address and called for stronger collaboration between government, entrepreneurs and the private sector to drive inclusive economic growth across Tshwane.

Moya encouraged entrepreneurs to engage actively with government and contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s transformation agenda. She said the success of the city’s transformation journey should reflect in tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary residents.

Cllr Eugene Modise highlighted the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality’s continued support for SMMEs through business support and compliance initiatives focused on empowering youth, women and persons with disabilities.

Dakalo Netshivhazwaula, Director of Expenditure at Tshwane University of Technology, said successful completion of the ESD Programme grants participating SMMEs automatic inclusion into the University’s supplier database.

Dr Patrick Ebewo Lardo Stander, Chief Executive Officer of the Tshwane Economic Development Agency, reflected on the impact of the Tshwane Women in Business Awards, which recognise women entrepreneurs driving innovation and economic impact across the capital city.

Dr Patrick Ebewo, Manager of the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development, credited the programme’s continued success to the commitment of facilitators and coaches. He added that participant feedback continues to strengthen the programme and expressed confidence that the new cohort will build resilient and sustainable businesses that contribute meaningfully to economic growth and job creation.