The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Ngodini Bunduz Entrepreneurship Advancement Project recently scooped first position for Excellence in Entrepreneurship Learning and Teaching at the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Awards. This award was received by the project leaders, the Department of Entrepreneurial Studies and Management Lecturer, Ms Thulile Ndlovu and the Department of Applied Management Lecturer: Mr Nyane Mofokeng.
The DUT Ngodini Bunduz Entrepreneurship Advancement Project was established collaboratively with the Department of Applied Management (Ms Tabisa Qangule, Ms Yachal du Plessis), Ecotourism (Ms Zikho Qwatekana, Mr Nkululeko Zondi, Mr Simphiwe Dube), Entrepreneurial Studies and Management, (Ms Itumeleng Maome, Ms Bukelwa Mbinda, Mr Mthokozisi Luthuli, Mr Sanele Mtshali), Faculty of Management Sciences and Horticulture (Mr Dhiren Govender, Dr Mark Maistry, Dr Ignatious Matimati), Faculty of Applied Sciences. Inspiration for the project was born by the desire to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world impact, positioning DUT at the forefront of experiential learning and community engagement. The project assisted with providing entrepreneurship training and capacity-building workshops that equipped entrepreneurs with the knowledge, skills, and capabilities to grow their businesses.
Ms Ndlovu highlighted the journey of entering for the award which included an abstract submission, that served as the entry point. Then upon review, the project was shortlisted for the second phase of evaluation. The subsequent phase required them to delve deeper, presenting a comprehensive 6000-word case study that encapsulated the essence and impact of the initiative. This thorough documentation propelled the project into the spotlight, securing a place among the top 10 submissions nationwide. As the evaluation intensified, the project continued to shine advancing to phase three, where it was selected amongst the top five initiatives from universities across the country. Each stage of evaluation reaffirmed the significance of their collaborative efforts and the tangible impact of the DUT-Ngodini Bunduz Entrepreneurship Advancement Project. The pinnacle of this arduous yet rewarding journey culminated at Southern Sun OR Tambo Hotel in Johannesburg on 1 December 2023 where they presented the project in person, accompanied by a compelling three-minute video that encapsulated the essence and success of their endeavour.
“The journey for this award began earlier this year when we made the decision to nominate the project for the Teaching and Learning category at the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Awards. The process was rigorous and demanding but through focus and dedication we managed to overcome the challenges. This achievement not only recognises the hard work invested in our project but also signifies the profound impact and transformative potential it holds within the realms of entrepreneurship and community development. We are immensely proud that our collective efforts, dedication, and innovation led us to securing the highest honour the number one position in South Africa,” expressed Ms Ndlovu.
Mr Mofokeng shared the overall experience of participating and ultimately winning the awards stating that it was indeed an incredibly rewarding experience for them. He said that this award serves as validation for the dedication and hard work put into the DUT-Ngodini Bunduz Entrepreneurship Advancement Project.
“Winning highlighted the significance of our multidisciplinary approach in fostering community transformation and promoting sustainable practices. This achievement significantly impacts our teaching and learning processes within the four departments. It serves as a testament to the effectiveness of experiential learning and collaborative initiatives across various disciplines. The recognition gained from the awards elevates our credibility and inspires us to further integrate practical, real-world applications into our teaching methodologies. It encourages us to continue fostering innovation and community engagement, providing students with hands-on experiences that bridge academic knowledge with tangible impact. Ultimately, this win motivates us to continuously evolve our teaching approaches, ensuring they align with contemporary demands and contribute meaningfully to societal needs,” he said.
Pictured: Department of Entrepreneurial Studies and Management Lecturer, Ms Thulile Ndlovu and the Department of Applied Management Lecturer: Mr Nyane Mofokeng, at the event.
Zanele Mashaba
