By OBAKENG MAJE
19 March 2025- The North West University (NWU) said the highly anticipated North West Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hub will serve as a catalyst for business growth and innovation in the province. The state-of-the-art project site was officially handed over at the North West University (Mahikeng campus) on Wednesday.
The NWU principal and vice chancellor, Professor Bismark Tyobeka said the milestone event marks a significant step in the province’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and driving inclusive economic growth. Tyobeka said the university is in partnership with the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT) and the Young
African Entrepreneurs Institute (YAEI).
“The handover brought together government officials, academia, development agencies, and young entrepreneurs. The event signified the formal transfer of the building site, paving the way for the construction of a state-of-the-art Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hub that will serve as a catalyst for business growth and innovation in the province.
“As the province’s knowledge hub, the NWU will play a strategic role in driving economic development. The initiative will not only benefit students, but also empower entrepreneurs across the province by equipping them with the necessary tools and resources to transform their ideas into thriving businesses,” he said.
Tyobeka further said universities are no longer just institutions of learning. He added that they have become dynamic hubs of innovation and entrepreneurship.
“The NWU is committed to fostering a culture of creativity, supporting startups, and facilitating knowledge transfer through research, technology, and networking.
“This will ultimately drive economic growth and address global challenges,” said Tyobeka.
The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane said the provincial government reaffirmed its commitment to the project by officially announcing funding support, reinforcing its dedication to creating sustainable economic opportunities and job creation for the province.
Lenkopane who delivering the keynote address, emphasized the importance of investing in youth and innovation.
“The North West Provincial Government (NWPG) is proud to support this visionary project. This hub will serve as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering access to skills development, mentorship, and funding opportunities that are critical for business success,” she said.
Echoing this sentiment, YAEI CEO, Risuna Maluleke emphasized the transformative impact of the project.
“The hub is more than just a building. It is a symbol of our collective belief in the potential of young people in the North West. YAEI is excited to see this vision come to life and to continue working with partners who share our commitment to empowering the next generation of African entrepreneurs.
“A symbolic site handover ceremony marked the official commencement of the hub’s development, generating a shared sense of excitement and optimism among stakeholders,” said Maluleke.
Meanwhile, the North West Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hub is expected to be a game-changer, providing a space where ideas will flourish, businesses will thrive, and the province’s economic landscape will be transformed.
The Guardian 