Gauteng education MEC Matome Chiloane launched Jet Nteo commerce and entrepreneurship school of specialisation (CESoS) on Tuesday in Boipatong, Vanderbijlpark.
The school with a focus on tourism and hospitality is the twenty-eighth CESoS in the province.
MEC Chiloane said the significance of Boipatong’s history beckons a transformation, with aspirations to emerge as a prominent township boasting a productive community and a flourishing economy.
“In this context, the establishment of Jet Nteo as a CESoS holds profound significance. This institution is poised to serve as a beacon of hope within the township, ushering in a new era of opportunity and prosperity.
“The rationale behind the establishment of a CESoS is rooted in the imperative of reinvigorating the township economy, thereby breaking the cycle of poverty.
“Entrepreneurship education plays a pivotal role by instructing learners in conducting community research and identifying prevailing challenges. Subsequently, learners are encouraged to devise innovative solutions to address these challenges.”
“The Commerce subjects complement this entrepreneurial spirit by providing learners with essential business and accounting acumen, equipping them with the skills necessary to initiate and operate their own businesses.
“The collective impact of these efforts promises a substantial transformation and upliftment within the community,” he said.
The MEC stated that resources available at the school are essential components of a comprehensive education, collectively shaping well-rounded learners destined for success in business and entrepreneurship.
The Entrepreneurship Hub fosters innovation, the Maths Park hone analytical skills, the Outdoor Furniture Factory imparts practical craftsmanship, and our Museum instills cultural appreciation.
ALSO READ | ‘No ways’: Rand Water on calls for its CEO to resign
“The benefits accruing to the community are multifaceted. Entrepreneurship begins with the inception of an idea, often stemming from community-based research to identify and address pressing local challenges.
“Notably, learners from the community are empowered to undertake this vital research and subsequently contribute to resolving these challenges.
“An overarching benefit for the community lies in the creation of employment opportunities, facilitated by those learners who evolve into entrepreneurs themselves.
This virtuous cycle of employment generation and economic rejuvenation is poised to breathe new life into Boipatong’s economy,” said MEC Chiloane.