In a proactive move to address the pressing issue of high unemployment rates among South African youth in general and Bachelor in Indigenous Knowledge Systems (BIKS) graduates in particular, the Innovation Hub in partnership with the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) Centre, orchestrated a groundbreaking entrepreneurial training programme.
This initiative, funded by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), aims to equip fourth-year BIKS students with the skills and knowledge needed to harness their theoretical education and indigenous wisdom for the development of thriving businesses within their communities.
The significance of indigenous knowledge systems as a driving force behind grassroots innovation dovetails seamlessly with the strategic objectives of the South African government. These objectives revolve around integrating and aligning indigenous knowledge with mainstream research, development, and innovation initiatives, thereby contributing to various sectors of the bioeconomy.
The collaboration between the IKS Centre and the Innovation Hub is an embodiment of these objectives, aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and supporting the economic empowerment of young people.
The programme was delivered in two distinct parts Each part focused on different aspects of entrepreneurship, ensuring a comprehensive and well-rounded learning experience.
During the first part, students learned about the essentials of entrepreneurship in the South African context. Topics included the inception of innovative ideas, safeguarding intellectual property, constructing effective business models, honing marketing strategies, understanding business operations, and navigating legal intricacies.
The second part focused on cultivating the leadership skills needed for entrepreneurial success. This phase delved into entrepreneur development, African business leadership, the synergy between innovation and African IKS practices, and the art of negotiating business contracts.
Otsile Maditsi from the NWU IKS Centre says students voiced their appreciation for the practical skills they acquired. “They, recognise the programme as a beacon of hope for their economic prospects after graduation,” he says.
“The acquired skills and insights have ignited their ambition to embark on entrepreneurial ventures. Remarkably, many participants have already begun drafting business plans, utilising a template provided by the Innovation Hub. The hub has also expressed its eagerness to nurture these budding ideas into fully-fledged businesses,” adds Otsile.
Contrary to being a mere exercise of checking boxes, the programme emerges as a resounding success and a genuine step towards tackling South Africa's unemployment conundrum. It stands as a testament to the potential that lies within collaborative efforts between educational institutions, governmental bodies, and innovation hubs.
This group of fourth-year BIKS students at the NWU participated in the entrepreneurial training programme.
