Studentpreneur Pop-up Market and Workshop fosters innovation and entrepreneurship at VUT
18 October 2024 | STORY Tayron Mhlongo. PHOTO VUT.
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) buzzed with creativity and entrepreneurial spirit during the recent Studentpreneur Pop-Up Market and Workshop aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and creating a collaborative space for entrepreneurs to learn and grow. Organized by the Student Life and Governance office in co collaboration with the Alumni Relations Office, the Centre for Academic Development (CAD), and the Visual Arts and Design department, this dynamic three-day event brought together students, alumni, and industry leaders.
This initiative was sparked by the remarkable efforts of VUT alumnus in the likes of Mr. Mordecai Ndlovu, who authored a four-part series on becoming a successful student entrepreneur.
The program was opened by Mr. Sipho Nkosi, a Student Development Practitioner who emphasized the importance of innovation and artificial intelligence through a partnership with the Red Bull Basement Pitch.
Kicking off the event, the Studentpreneur Pop-Up Market ran from 9 to 10 October 2024, where potential entrepreneurs showcased their talents and creations. Coordinated by CAD, this market allowed students to connect with stakeholders and gain exposure to the entrepreneurial landscape.
The event concluded on 11 October 2024 with a workshop which featured a lineup of guest speakers from notable organizations, including the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), South African Revenue Service (SARS), VUT Technology Transfer Office (TTO), Etlang ko Vaal and Iketsetse Bokamoso PTY. These experts shared vital knowledge and practical advice on business development, tax compliance, and intellectual property.
In collaboration with the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), the program achieved remarkable outcomes, registering seven businesses from the VUT Studentpreneurs. Although initially aiming for 15 registrations, time constraints limited this to seven, demonstrating SEDA’s commitment to empowering students. Additionally, SARS provided crucial assistance with tax returns for staff.
The event featured seven stakeholder exhibitions, showcasing organizations such as SEDA, NYDA, SARS, TTO, T3 Telecommunication SA, U-belong, and Cell C. This engagement created a vibrant environment where students could explore resources and support available to them. Among the exhibitors were VUT’s own studentpreneurs, including Enactus members and Fine Arts students, alongside Biochemistry students. Their innovative projects captivated attendees and highlighted the diverse talent emerging from VUT.
By empowering students with knowledge and connections, this initiative has set an example for future entrepreneurial endeavors at the university. As the participants reflected on the event, it was clear that the seeds of innovation had been sown, promising a bright future for VUT’s aspiring entrepreneurs.