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WSU IT Graduate, Talita Giqo has taken on an innovative initiative that will empower rural entrepreneurs with critical skills in the ever-evolving fields of Science, Technology and Engineering (STE).
The 30-year-old budding entrepreneur was one of seven individuals chosen by the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) to receive funding for a programme aimed at training a cohort of at least 20 SMMEs.
Giqo received significant financial support towards the project, which is set to provide comprehensive training in developmental and entrepreneurial skills, with the promise of funding and incubation for innovative ideas.
The training will run for a period of 12 months and will encompass the provision of support for entrepreneurs in product development as well as market access opportunities.
“The primary focus is on existing SMMEs. The initiative is aimed at improving the lives of South Africans from all demographic backgrounds and is not only limited to youth as far as age is concerned, but open to people who are seriously in need of quality skills in science, technology, and engineering. The program aims to promote inclusivity regardless of gender, physical ability, and age,” said Giqo.
Born in the outskirts of Engcobo, Giqo studied and obtained a Diploma in Information Technology (Software Development) from Walter Sisulu University.
Like many of her peers, she found herself without employment, which inspired her to venture out on her own, pursuing farming. She further went on to start an IT solutions company, Embo Digital and Green Technologies, through which she will be launching her first application.
Although focused on nurturing her own business ventures, Giqo asserts that it is of importance for entrepreneurs like herself to also plough back into the communities in which they operate.
“As someone who has been affected by unemployment after graduating, I understand the urgency for job creation and the need for entrepreneurs who won’t just be in business for their personal benefit but who will also create employment opportunities for others. In as much as I am working on my own brand, my heart is not at ease knowing that some of my people are left behind,” she said.
To commence her entrepreneurial and STE training programme, Giqo will partner with the WSU Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubators (CFERI) in Zamukulungisa Site, Mthatha Campus.
She also plans to take the project to the WSU Butterworth Campus, as well as the Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality in her hometown of Engcobo.
By Yanga Ziwele
