The Durban University of Technology (DUT) in collaboration with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) hosted the 2024 KZN Social Economy Development Programme Exhibition and Certification Ceremony at the KZN Department of Public Works, Archie Gumede Conference Centre on Thursday, 12 September 2024.
DUT in collaboration with EDTEA embarked on a journey to develop and deliver the KwaZulu-Natal Social Economy Development Programme (KZN SEDP) since from 2021. The programme targeted 15 existing Social Entrepreneurs from across KwaZulu-Natal annually over a period of 3 years. A total of 50 social entrepreneurs completed the programme over the 3-year period (2022,2023, and 2024), thereby exceeding the targeted number of social entrepreneurs.
DUT’s Interim Director of Research and Postgraduate Support Dr. Nomcebo Mthombeni welcomed the attendees and delivered the opening address on behalf of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement, Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola. In her address, Dr Mthombeni urged social enterprises to use their businesses in tackling socio-economic issues in their communities.
“Social Entrepreneurship is really positioned to address some of the most pressing challenges that we face today, whether it is poverty, unemployment or inequality. Particularly, in our province, KZN, social economy has emerged as a critical vehicle for economic empowerment and community upliftment, offering sustainable solutions to local challenges through innovation, inclusivity and collaborations,” she explained.
The traditional model of entrepreneurship is premised on profit maximisation at all costs, while social entrepreneurship on the other hand emphasises viability while optimising the business positive impact on communities and the environment. It is described as a business with conscience, and a heart.
In light of this, the programme is aimed to equip the selected participants with keys skills that they would require in order to scale their business so that they are able to have a greater positive impact in their communities. The programme ran over a period of nine months and included both theoretical and practical components.
Acting Deputy Director General: Integrated Economic Development Services in the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), Dr Sixtus Sibetha delivered the keynote address on behalf of the MEC, Rev. Musa Zondi. He applauded DUT for driving the initiative of empowering emerging business owners and future leaders.
“I would like to extend our gratitude to our partners in this project which is DUT, for the kind of work that you have done to the social enterprises that are here. We would also like to thank our sub-program, which is our regional and local Economic Development. To all our social enterprises, we also want to extend our gratitude for you to go through the process of training that you have gone through. Training will open many doors for you, but we still need to work very hard for every opportunity that is out there, in order to reach the end goal. Remember that you are heart of the society that is facing the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality,” he said.
A highlight of the programme was the exhibition and certification ceremony, which provides the candidates with a platform to display the skills that they have obtained during their time in the programme and an opportunity to network with potential funders and strategic partners.
Brighton Cele from Umthwalume was delighted to be awarded his certificate of completion, together with the entire class of 2024. He is the founder of Brighton Charcoal, where he manufactures and distributes lump and briquette charcoal, fire starters and firewood.
“We provide a one-stop shop for you braai occasions. We understand the importance of having everything in one place before you start the braai, so you can concentrate on what you do best. We can also personalise your charcoal bags and other accessories to give your braai occasion that memorable and personal touch,” he happily shared.
Prof Surendra Thakur: Director for Short Course Unit at DUT gave the vote of thanks and acknowledged the contributions of those who worked really hard in making the event a success.
Pictured: DUT representatives, KZN Social Economy Development Programme steering committee and Social Enterprises class of 2024 at the Certification Ceremony
Thubelihle Dumakude
