The recent Entrepreneurship Week at the University of the Free State (UFS) Qwaqwa Campus proved to be a transformative event, inspiring students and connecting them with industry leaders. The event showcased the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of both external businesses and student innovators.

On the first day, an exhibition brought together a diverse range of businesses, offering students the opportunity to explore products and services. Despite a slow start, the event gained momentum as the day progressed, drawing enthusiastic crowds eager to learn more about the entrepreneurial landscape.

The second day featured insightful presentations from key business stakeholders, who shared their expertise on transforming theoretical knowledge into practical applications and creating sustainable job opportunities. The Student Entrepreneurship Committee played a pivotal role in ensuring the event's success, actively promoting it among their peers.

A notable highlight was the participation of various business stakeholders, including Sanlam, the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), the provincial Department of Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA), Proudly South African, the VKB Corporation, the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA), Riverside Finishing School, Kunjani Private Clinic, and the UFS Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS). These organisations offered valuable insights and resources to students, fostering a collaborative environment for growth and development.

VKB Corporation made a significant announcement, offering 2025 bursary applications to students from EMS and the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences. Additionally, W&RSETA has pledged to allocate funds for Qwaqwa Campus students starting in 2025. The enthusiasm and commitment demonstrated by the business leaders was evident throughout the event, as they expressed their desire to strengthen partnerships and provide students with the necessary tools to succeed.

Entrepreneurship Week aimed to inspire students to explore entrepreneurial ventures and create legitimate employment opportunities. By focusing on producing scientifically tested products and equipping students with the skills to participate in various fields, the event sought to address pressing social and economic challenges.