In an effort to foster entrepreneurship among technical and vocational education and training (TVET) students, the Free State Premier Mxolisi Dukwana, DESTEA MEC Thabo Meeko, and the Goldfields, Motheo, and Maluti TVET colleges will host the Allan Gray Entrepreneurship Inter-College Regional Competition on August 11, 2023. This event, to be held at the National Artisan Development Academy in Bloemfontein, aims to boost the entrepreneurial spirit among TVET students.
Showcasing Innovative Business Ideas
The Allan Gray Entrepreneurship Inter-College Regional Competition serves as a platform for business students at TVET colleges to showcase their innovative business ideas or existing ventures. The competition provides students with an opportunity to pitch their proposals to a panel of judges and seek potential investments to elevate their businesses. The competition aims to experiment with product development and business-oriented careers while offering participating students valuable feedback from industry experts. This facilitates entrepreneurial learning among TVET students.
Supporting Future Entrepreneurs
Around 50 students from various TVET institutions will participate in the competition. The panel of judges will select eight winners who will receive financial assistance to expedite their business ideas or ensure the sustainability of their existing businesses. These winners will also represent the region at the national level.
Importance of Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship is an essential quality in the 21st century as it drives economic growth, creates new job opportunities, and cultivates a culture of innovation. By supporting the development of entrepreneurship among TVET students, the Allan Gray Entrepreneurship Inter-College Regional Competition helps build a stronger economy. The competition acknowledges the contribution of entrepreneurship to the economy and emphasizes the importance of nurturing this invaluable attribute.
Invitation to Attend
The media is invited to attend the competition, which will take place at Motheo TVET College—Artisan Development Academy (opposite the UFS south campus) at 09:00 on August 11, 2023.
Empowering Young Entrepreneurs
The Allan Gray Entrepreneurship Inter-College Regional Competition is a commendable initiative that empowers young entrepreneurs to reach their full potential. By fostering a spirit of innovation and providing support to students with promising business ideas, the competition contributes to the development of future entrepreneurs who will shape the economic landscape. As the event unfolds, stakeholders, participants, and observers alike will witness the emergence of new ideas, the exchange of knowledge, and the strengthening of collaborative networks that will pave the way for the growth and prosperity of the Free State region and South Africa as a whole.