Gym instructor, homework centre owner, fashion designer, photographer. These are but some of the students who walked across the stage to receive their qualifications after completing an entrepreneurship programme on the South Campus of the University of the Free State (UFS).

The Department of Social Responsibility, Enterprise and Community Engagement on the South Campus recently hosted a ceremony for students in the short learning programme: Teacher Professional Development for Digital Mobile Learning, and Entrepreneurship for SMMEs.

According to Thakane Nteko from the Social Responsibility Projects (SRP), 40 of the 66 students enrolled for the qualification in lecture development completed it, together with the 10 students who registered for the entrepreneurship programme. The students are mainly university and TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) lecturers and self-employed youth.

She says the department aims to enhance teaching and learning in the Free State, be it for school learners, schoolteachers, TVET college lecturers, or the youth. Key in this initiative is the UFS, in partnership with Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and other organisations involved in community development, to make a positive difference in communities where there is a need.

Addressing social injustices
Positively impacting the youth of South Africa is of critical importance to the UFS. “Creating opportunities and growth through leading, learning, and teaching, is not only valid for the young intellectuals who have the chance to qualify themselves through tertiary studies. It is also applicable to the disadvantaged communities exposed to poor education. The UFS SRP serve as the vehicle to address this social injustice,” states Thandeka Mosholi, Head of the Department of Social Responsibility, Enterprise and Community Engagement.

She trusts that Social Responsibility Projects has established itself as a supporter of disadvantaged communities by responding to the call to positively impact the future of South African youth. “Our passion resonates with those who desire to open opportunities and bring purpose to gifted learners born in circumstances they did not choose, by being leaders in school change,” she says.

Destined for greatness
Delivering messages of encouragement at the event was KB Lebusho, CEO of the Free State Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Addressing the group of entrepreneurs, lecturers, and teachers, he told them that they are destined for greatness. “But until you believe in yourself, things will not change for you. It is important that you have clarity about your dreams and goals.”

Advocate Shirly Hyland, Director: Kovsie Phahamisa Academy, also left the students with a message of support. “By paying education forward, we can change the world. The power to touch the lives around you, lies in your hands. Enjoy taking the knowledge you have learned into your communities,” she said.