With the aim to blend theory and practice to shape knowledge, improve understanding and challenge critical thinking in entrepreneurship and enterprise management, the School of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) at the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) launched the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Research (Cedar) on 1 December.
Cedar will create an entrepreneurial ecosystem intended to contribute positively to the Northern Cape economy by focusing on pedagogy, entrepreneurship development, and research.
Through its establishment, Cedar seeks to improve the academic experience of students and, ultimately, the standard of living in communities.
Speaking at the launch, Prof. Pierre Joubert, head of the School of EMS, said the centre has its work cut out to change the lives of the marginalized and that the centre is aware of the need in society through reflecting on the unemployment and poverty statistics in the province.
Prof. Andrew Crouch, SPU vice-chancellor and principal, said entrepreneurship is a driver of economic development and job creation among the youth.
“This centre will ensure that skills are transferred to people who have the desire to start businesses,” said Crouch.
Acting director of Cedar, Prof. Ricardo Peters, provided insight into the South African entrepreneurial ecosystem and the harsh reality of unemployment amongst the youth, and how the centre will assist in bridging the gap.
He also emphasised that the overall vision for this centre is to blend practices and theories to support small businesses.
Daryll Christians, chief director at the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, affirmed support for Cedar.
Entrepreneurship and innovation are two key pillars of SPU’s five-year strategic vision and objectives as a key stakeholder in building the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
