The opportunity comes after the students Mr Sandile Nhuvunga, Ms Ndiwanga, Murena Overcome Muravha, and Mr Mcolisi Austine Shongwe, participated in the Technological Higher Education Network South Africa (THENSA) Entrepreneurship Training, which was held in 2024, and hosted in partnership with Munster University of Technology, Ireland.
The entrepreneurship training is set to equip students with critical business development skills including market research, financial planning, pitching, and business model innovation.
Creating Opportunities
Mr Nhuvunga, a Master’s candidate in Development Studies says the opportunity is a milestone that boosts his credibility and confidence, giving him the international experience needed to scale his business and vision.
His entrepreneurial journey began when he attended a pitching practice session at UMPCFERI to support a friend.
“While I was just there to observe, I found myself making valuable contributions. That experience showed me how even small ideas and encouragement could make a big difference in someone’s journey.”
He went on to develop a diversified agribusiness venture incorporating indigenous crops, poultry, pig and goat farming, and sustainable innovations such as biogas production and organic fertilisers. “Being selected for the Ireland tour is the result of consistent hard work and the strong support system provided by UMP’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.”
Ms Ndiwanga Murena Overcome Muravha, a final-year Bachelor of Science in Agriculture student, has channelled her love for nature into a unique organic candy business, offering eco-friendly, health-conscious sweets.
“My entrepreneurial journey was inspired by my childhood love for plants and gardens,” she said. “I started ushering at UMPCFERI events and was inspired by the innovative projects and energy around me. It made me realise I, too, could bring something impactful to the table.”
Her candy line, which uses plant-based ingredients and refillable jars to reduce waste, is a reflection of her vision for sustainable business. “My goals during the tour include learning from international candy brands that are also focused on sustainability and healthy ingredients, and bringing that knowledge back to improve my product.”
Ms Ndiwanga credits UMP for playing a crucial role in her development. “The support from the Centre for Entrepreneurship has been phenomenal. They helped me register my business, refine my model, and connect with mentors. I’m truly grateful.”
For Mr Mcolisi Austine Shongwe, also a Master’s candidate in Development Studies, the Ireland tour represents a breakthrough moment. “It’s a dream come true – it shows that hard work and resilience can take you far, even if you come from a rural background,” he said.
His business, Speed of Green, uses hydroponic technology to promote sustainable farming in rural areas. “I want to see how global solutions can be localised to improve communities back home. This tour will help me build networks and gain insights into green technologies and innovation systems in Ireland.”
He first got involved in UMP’s entrepreneurial programmes in 2022 after discovering the Venture of Entrepreneurship platform. “That opened my eyes to the real-world potential of innovation and enterprise. Since then, UMP has continued to provide opportunities that challenge and empower us.”
Mcolisi extended his gratitude to his mentors, saying: “Special thanks to Professor Kanayo Ogujiuba and Miss Melody. Their mentorship has made a world of difference.”
Empowering a Generation
The Ireland Entrepreneurship Tour is a testament to UMP’s commitment to producing socially responsive graduates who are not only academically excellent but also equipped to lead, innovate, and inspire.
“The University of Mpumalanga has created a thriving entrepreneurial culture,” said Sandile. “UMP is truly creating a platform for both academic and entrepreneurial excellence, and I’m honoured to be part of that vision.”
All three students are determined to use the tour as a springboard for growth, knowledge sharing, and impact.
“I want my story to inspire fellow students to pursue their passions and use what UMP offers to make a difference,” said Ndiwanga.
Mr Shongwe echoed the sentiment: “You don’t have to wait until graduation to make an impact. Start now, use what you have, and grow.”
The University looks forward to sharing updates from the students’ experience upon their return from Ireland, confident that they will represent both UMP and South Africa with excellence and innovation.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.