Published: 20 February 2026
Mopani TVET College, in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), hosted a Start Your Own Business training programme at its Phalaborwa Campus from 16 to 24 February 2026.
The initiative forms part of the internationally recognised Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) programme and is designed to equip students with practical entrepreneurial skills needed to identify business opportunities, establish sustainable enterprises, and contribute to economic development.
Throughout the programme, participants were introduced to business opportunity identification, market assessment, business planning, financial management, marketing principles, and operational planning. The practical approach enabled students to transform innovative ideas into viable business concepts.
Participants completed two internationally recognised modules:
- Generate Your Business Idea
- Start Your Business
Upon successful completion, students received certificates recognising their newly acquired entrepreneurial competencies.
Speaking during the programme, facilitator and college lecturer Ms P. Ramphadi highlighted the value of entrepreneurship education in preparing students for self-employment.
She explained that the programme not only equips students with the skills to develop business ideas but also builds their confidence to present business concepts effectively to potential investors and funding institutions.
The programme was facilitated by Ms P. Ramphadi, Mr L. Lekoloane, Mr M.R. Phakula, and Mr M.G. Shikwambana.
This initiative reflects Mopani TVET College’s commitment to entrepreneurship, innovation, youth empowerment, and economic participation.
