The University of the Free State (UFS) Business Incubator, housed within the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, recently engaged Grade 12 pupils from a number of schools in the greater Bloemfontein area to broaden their understanding of entrepreneurship and the opportunities available to them beyond school.

More than 300 matriculants from St Bernard’s High School, Tsoseletso, Kopanong, Lekhulong and Dr Blok High Schools attended the event, which was held at St Bernard’s. Theywere introduced to entrepreneurial thinking and the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship, which is currently open for applications from Grade 12 matriculants. The UFS event focused on expanding pupils’ awareness of funding, mentorship, and development pathways that support their transition into higher education and future careers.

Shaping mindset and access at a critical stage

Chipo Matambo, Manager of the UFS Business Incubator, said exposure to entrepreneurship at this stage is about mindset rather than immediate business creation. “Grade 12 is a critical transition point, and introducing entrepreneurial thinking helps learners see themselves as active creators of opportunity, not just passive job seekers,” she said.

She added that the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship plays a key role in broadening access for pupils who may otherwise face barriers. “The fellowship invests in the whole individual through mentorship, funding and networks, which can be transformational for learners from under-resourced communities.” 

Entrepreneurship was shown at this event to be not only a pathway to business creation but also a life skill that develops confidence, problem-solving ability, resilience, and leadership. These qualities enable young people to navigate uncertainty, identify opportunities, and contribute meaningfully within their communities, regardless of the career paths they pursue.

Lehlohonolo Mofokeng, a teacher at St Bernard’s and a UFS alumnus, highlighted the importance of exposure to initiatives of this nature. “The hope is that these engagements ignite sparks in our learners to pursue their academic and other dreams courageously,” he said.

Mofokeng added that encouraging entrepreneurship has wider community implications. “We hope this exposure strengthens their entrepreneurial spirit and, in time, contributes to sustainable solutions that address challenges such as poverty in our townships.”