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In a context of unemployment, particularly among young people, the South African government has prioritised the development and promotion of Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) as a key strategy for job creation, poverty alleviation, and economic growth. The National Development Plan ambitiously targets 90% of new employment opportunities to be created by SMMEs by 2030.

Rhodes University’s vision and mission speaks to this commitment by encouraging holistic approaches to community development that integrates the functions of the university - teaching, learning, research and community engagement. 

The Masakhe Enterprise and Supplier Development Programme is a collaborative initiative by the Rhodes University departments of Infrastructure & Operations and Community Engagement. Partnering with the Assumption Development Centre (ADC), an NPO located in Joza, Makhanda. Established in 2023,  the programme aims to accelerate enterprise and supplier development to benefit both Rhodes University and the broader Makhanda community, especially the youth.

Through Community University Partnerships, the Masakhe Programme contributes to the revitalization of the Makhanda economy. This initiative supports Rhodes University's commitment to being a cornerstone of its local community, fostering co-created solutions that have a meaningful impact on the city.

Committee Members

• Waldette Lombard (Procurement)
• Prof. Noel Pearse (Rhodes Business School and Chair of ADC)
• Jay Pillay (Operations)
• Di Hornby (RUCE)
• Maso Nduna (Assumption Development Centre)
• Thandiwe Matyobeni (RUCE Social Innovation Hub)
• Anelisa Toni (RUCE)

Our Approach

The programme focuses on identifying and matching the needs of Rhodes University with local SMMEs, providing services such as window cleaning, laundry, water metre reading, media, upholstery, pest control, cooking, and artisan services in electrical and plumbing.

Key Initiatives

Skills Development

• • 18 young people trained in Hospitality Management by Tumelo Thladi and placed in internships, with four trainees having secured permanent jobs.

Procurement and Enterprise Development

• • 12 SMME businesses trained in accredited ‘Enterprise Development’ by Prof. Tshidi Mahopela from the Rhodes Business School.
  • 12 individuals trained in the Certificate in Business Development Services by Mr. Thabang Moleko from the Rhodes Business School. 

Business Support and Branding

• • Small businesses were Identified and supported to be registered as suppliers on the Rhodes University Supplier database. These businesses include: 
    • Sis’Dambisa’s Laundry
    • Bob’s Upholsterers
    • Sizo Media
    • Glenda’s Sewing Centre
    • BMCS Cleaning Services
    • Lilonke Baker
    • Granny’s Ginger Beer
    • Slovo Designs

Socio-economic Development

• • Upgrade of the Joza Clinic in collaboration with the Department of Health
  • Upgrade of the ADC Computer Lab
  • Support for the Bathurst Farming Project

The partnership benefits both Rhodes University and local SMMEs by addressing mutual needs. The university gains essential services, while local businesses receive the support and training necessary to thrive, creating a sustainable and impactful community development model.

The Masakhe Programme will continue to support the growth and development of local SMMEs, fostering economic growth and job creation in Makhanda. Through ongoing training, business support, and community projects, the programme aims to build a resilient and prosperous local economy.

Through partnerships and action, Masakhe seeks to establish a model for how universities can play a role in their communities’ social and economic development. 

Last Modified: Mon, 27 Jan 2025 09:41:26 SAST