“VUT student entrepreneurs excel at the Hult Prize South Africa National Competition, with Eco Shred Rewards securing a Top 6 spot and advancing to the global incubator.”
07 April 2026 | Story by: Staff Reporter | Picture: Supplied
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Innovation met ambition on the national stage as student entrepreneurs from the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) distinguished themselves among the country’s leading young innovators at the Hult Prize South Africa National Competition, held from 27 to 28 March 2026 at Workshop 17, Watershed in Cape Town.
Supported by the Student Life and Governance Department, VUT joined 26 universities in a competition widely regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious platforms for student entrepreneurship. The event brought together emerging innovators presenting business solutions designed to respond to pressing global challenges.
VUT was represented by two teams, Eco Shred Rewards and Smart Health System, both of which impressed judges with their innovative concepts, well-structured business models, and clear value propositions. Their performance reflected a growing culture of entrepreneurship within the University.
A defining moment came as Eco Shred Rewards secured a place among the Top 6 businesses nationally, earning an invitation to the Hult Prize Global Digital Incubator Programme, where the team will further develop and scale its solution on an international platform.
Beyond the competition floor, leadership within the VUT community was also recognised. Ms Neo Maluleke, an Advanced Diploma student and VUT Campus Director for the Hult Prize, received a Certificate of Recognition for her leadership and contribution to the programme. Mr Sipho Nkosi, Campus Coordinator, was similarly acknowledged for his commitment to mentoring and supporting the teams throughout their journey.
Reflecting on the experience, Mr Oratile Tyamzashe, a member of the Eco Shred Rewards team, described the national stage as both affirming and inspiring. “The level of creativity, passion and purpose-driven thinking demonstrated by each team highlighted the power of youth in driving meaningful change,” he said, noting the significance of seeing ideas with global potential take shape in a competitive environment.
For Mr Makgabo Makgabo, also a member of Eco Shred Rewards, the experience reinforced a deeper lesson about entrepreneurship. “It begins with the courage to act on an idea and the willingness to refine it through continuous learning and collaboration,” he said, adding that the platform affirmed the potential of VUT students to emerge as future leaders and innovators.
Commending the teams, Mr Tebello Theledi, Student Life and Governance Administrator, noted that their performance reflects the University’s deliberate focus on cultivating innovation, entrepreneurship, and practical problem-solving capabilities among its students.
The Hult Prize continues to serve as a gateway for young entrepreneurs to access global networks, mentorship, and investment opportunities. VUT’s strong showing at the national
competition signals not only student excellence, but also an institutional commitment to developing graduates who are equipped to shape the future economy.