A Bloemfontein-based youth’s innovative plan to create a virtual tutoring platform saw him win a cash prize in this year’s Makers Fest National Entrepreneurship Inter-College competition.
Mohau Tau claimed the first prize of R50 000 for his idea in the competition’s “I Have a Tech Business” category.
Tau was awarded the prize for his Teachme app, a peer-to-peer tutoring platform for students.
He presented a well-rounded idea that exuded a sense of innovation, impressing a panel of judges who voted his presentation as the best visionary business concept at the final held on 11 September in Johannesburg.
Tau was among the 36 talented finalists of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. They all showcased their ability and technical skills. Pioneering entrepreneurs pitched their groundbreaking business ideas, offering a glimpse into the future of South Africa’s artisan trades and industries.
He explains he coined his business concept in the event of struggling to find a tutor to assist with modules he was experiencing challenges in.
“I was struggling with a module of Financial Accounting. Tutors were charging R400, per hour, which I could not afford. A fellow student helped with those modules, and I did exceptionally well,” says Tau.
“Then came the idea to create the Teachme app, to help tertiary students with their modules. I conducted research regarding the feasibility of creating such an app, and how useful it would be. Informed by findings that there is a large need, I then created and registered the app in 2022.
“We enlist knowledgeable tutors, whom we book to provide online assistance to students having difficulties with modules. Students must have access to WiFi networks.”
Tau graduated with an N6 qualification in Financial Management at the Motheo TVET College.
