Entrepreneur development programme launched at UMP

The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) brought together higher education, government and industry leaders for the launch of the Entrepreneur Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Absa Entrepreneurship InnoVarsity 2026 on Thursday, April 16.

The launch aimed to empower student entrepreneurs to build scalable, impactful and successful businesses. Students were encouraged to think beyond employment, while Dr Bongiwe Mcata emphasised the importance of entrepreneurship in teaching and learning.

ALSO READ: Mpumalanga youth encouraged to embrace the power of entrepreneurship

Speaking on behalf of the director of the UMP Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator, Prof Ogujiuba Kanayo, economic activation officer Irondina Maile said the centre has supported over 37 businesses, created 36 job opportunities and sustained 71 jobs so far this year.

“This proves that entrepreneurship in higher education is practical, measurable, and impactful,” she said. She added that the centre has mentored over 120 entrepreneurs and engaged more than 2 000 students annually.

ALSO READ: Deputy minister’s visit prompts alliance for job creation for Ehlanzeni TVET College students

UMP deputy vice chancellor Prof Aldo Stroebel highlighted that the university is transitioning from being a transmitter to a generator of knowledge and empowering students to create job opportunities.

The Director of Entrepreneurship at the University of South Africa, Dr Edwell Gumbo, said the event created a platform to translate ideas into enterprises, positioning students as drivers of innovation.

The programme ended with two panel discussions; one focusing on the reality of student entrepreneurs, with a spotlight on managing expectations and well-being; while the other reflected on the journey to the EDHE National Finals.