University of South Africa: Inhlanyelo Hub NPC Achieves Impressive Milestones in Inaugural Year of Operations
On 2 May 2024, a jubilant celebration marked the culmination of its inaugural year, underscoring the Hub’s commitment to driving positive change and shaping a more inclusive economy. As it reflects on its accomplishments, Inhlanyelo Hub NPC stands poised at the threshold of a promising future, continuing to pave the way for African innovation through sustainable entrepreneurship.
Securing R24 Million Funding: One of the standout accomplishments of the Hub’s inaugural year is the attainment of R24 million in funding over the next three years. This substantial investment is earmarked for critical programmes, including the Inhlanyelo Drone Divas Programme, Inhlanyelo Bosadi Artisan Programme, Ide8tion and BMC Programmes, and Digifranchises. This infusion of the UCDP funding underscores the hub’s commitment to fostering innovation and empowerment within Unisa, the community and the South African higher education sector.
Empowering Drone Divas: Inhlanyelo Hub proudly announced the successful graduation of 15 Drone Divas, each equipped with Civil Aviation Authority-issued Drone Pilot Licenses. The training and the resultant remote pilot license certification are just the first steps – from here, the women drone pilots are supported in developing women-owned and operated small businesses and service providers. This achievement not only highlights the hub’s dedication to skill and entrepreneurship development but also underscores its role in nurturing talent in emerging industries and addressing gender disparities by giving more women access to the aviation industry.
Creating employment opportunities: Through the Drone Divas Programme, Inhlanyelo Hub has catalysed a positive economic impact by creating five new jobs. These divas, who were unemployed at the outset of the programme, have now found meaningful employment opportunities, contributing to the hub’s mission of socio-economic upliftment through job creation.
Supporting start-up ventures: In a testament to its commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship, the hub has extended incubation contracts and support to ten start-ups. This investment in emerging ventures is poised to bolster their growth and sustainability, fostering a thriving ecosystem of innovation and enterprise.
Pioneering tech platforms: Inhlanyelo Hub is spearheading the development of two groundbreaking tech platforms to lower barriers to connectivity and entry into the business landscape. Currently in the testing phase, these platforms hold immense potential to revolutionise access to entrepreneurship and pave the way for a more inclusive economy.
As Inhlanyelo Hub reflects on its inaugural year, it does so with pride and anticipation for the promising future ahead. These milestones serve as a testament to the hub’s unwavering dedication to driving positive change and fostering a culture of innovation and empowerment within Unisa and the community. With such remarkable achievements under its belt, the future is indeed bright for Inhlanyelo Hub NPC. The hub will continue to drive African innovation through sustainable entrepreneurship.