SIBONGISENI MAPHUMULO
On September 5th, Mtyobo Public Primary School held its much-anticipated Entrepreneur Day, marking one of the key assessment projects for the Grade 7 class in term three. The event, part of their Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) curriculum, challenged the students to develop a business idea, identify their target market, and fund their projects independently.
Siyabulela Lukhwe, the school principal, explained the significance of the initiative, stating that it aims to nurture future entrepreneurs by teaching learners the basics of raising capital and understanding business concepts. “These children are the future of our country, and our economic success depends on their entrepreneurial mindset,” said Lukhwe.
The event, which was organized by EMS teacher Miss Nkwinti, saw a range of innovative ideas from the learners. Stalls were set up for coffee and tea, cakes, face painting, car washes, and various food items. The day attracted support from local businesses, with Spar, Pick n Pay, and St Andrews Hotel among the sponsors.
English and Arts teacher, Miss Mpambani, also played a significant role in assisting with the event. She highlighted how the market day not only met curriculum requirements but also served as a fundraiser for the Grade 7 farewell. “Many of these kids come from challenging backgrounds, and it’s heartwarming to see them take ownership of their future through this project,” she said.
Miss Nkwinti expressed her pride in the learners, adding that the Department of Education’s inclusion of entrepreneurial activities like this in the curriculum is vital in equipping learners with essential life skills. The event drew the attention of the broader community, including School Governing Body (SGB) chairperson Mpumelelo Goni and member Zukiswa Vulani. Goni remarked on the event’s success, expressing his gratitude to the teachers for guiding the students and bringing the project to life.
Thabo Simani, one of the Grade 7 learners, summed up the excitement of the day: “I’m very grateful that our school made this event happen. It brought us closer together as Grade 7s, and it showed us that when we work as a team, anything is possible.”
Entrepreneur Day at Mtyobo Public Primary School was not just an educational exercise but a valuable lesson in teamwork, leadership, and community involvement, leaving a lasting impact on the young participants.
The day encouraged creativity, innovation, and business acumen, giving students the opportunity to showcase their business ideas and products. Participating students were tasked with developing small businesses, complete with marketing strategies, budgeting plans, and product designs.
Throughout the day, students set up stalls to sell homemade goods or offer creative services, all while competing for prizes based on originality, profitability, and customer service. The event was supported by local business leaders, teachers, and parents, who offered guidance and mentorship to the budding entrepreneurs.
The goal of Entrepreneurs Day is to teach valuable life skills, such as teamwork, financial literacy, and problem-solving, which align with the broader educational objectives of preparing students for the challenges of the future economy. With a hands-on approach, the event aims to inspire young minds to explore entrepreneurship as a career path and encourage self-confidence in their business capabilities.
This year’s Entrepreneurs Day not only provided a platform for students to experience the dynamics of running a small business but also served as a valuable community event, raising funds for a charitable cause selected by the students.
- This article was first published in Talk of the Town, September 12, 2024. The newspaper serving the communities of Ndlambe and the Sunshine Coast, with a weekly wrap of Makhanda news, is available at stores from early on Thursdays.
