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Thabiso Goba | 7 October 2025 Matona, speaking at the B-BBEE Frank Dialogue event in Sandton, noted that the Act has been consistently amended and improved since it was passed into law in 2003. The head of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Commission, Tshediso Matona, says the policy is currently on "a faltering trajectory" but should not be abandoned entirely. Matona, speaking at the B-BBEE Frank Dialogue event in Sandton, noted that the Act has been consistently amended and improved since it was passed into law in 2003. As head of the Commission, Matona acknowledged that B-BBEE compliance has improved over the years; however, he stressed that undesirable practices continue to persist. "Every so often we come across fake certificates, practices like fronting that seek to circumvent the objectives of the legislation," Matona stated. He emphasised the need for urgent reform, stating that the policy is at a turning point. "So we do need to clean up this instrument, to strengthen its governance anchor and ethical foundation. So we are at a turning point, definitely, we cannot carry on on this faltering trajectory. The legislation needs to evolve. Close loopholes and strengthen enablers." ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.ewn.co.za/2025/10/07/b-bbee-on-a-faltering-trajectory-but-must-be-fixed-says-matona

Masego Panyane | 6 October 2025 Hospitality students in Johannesburg are set to gain invaluable work experience at some of the city’s top establishments, thanks to the newly bolstered Learning for Life internship program. This initiative, spearheaded by global giant Diageo South Africa in partnership with the University of Johannesburg (UJ) , has now expanded its reach with the crucial support of the Youth Employment Service (YES4YOUTH) . Launched yesterday (2/10/2025) at UJ’s School of Tourism and Hospitality (STH) on the Auckland Park Bunting Road campus, this public-private partnership aims to directly tackle South Africa’s high youth unemployment rate, which currently stands at 46.1% according to Statistics South Africa. The Learning for Life program is designed to equip students with essential practical skills and industry knowledge across tourism, hospitality, and food and beverage services. This year’s installment will facilitate a one-year placement for 100 students in reputable hotel and culinary establishments. This mandatory experiential training is a requirement for their final graduation. Reflecting on the program’s existing success, Gerald Hamadziripi, General Manager of the Kezner@UJ, emphasized the power of collaboration. “At the Kezner@UJ we fully believe in the power of partnerships. When industries and communities come together with a shared vision, the results are transformative. Over the past two years our collaboration with Diageo through this programme has been a living testament to that truth. As a host partner, we’ve had the privilege of witnessing first-hand the impact this has had on young people,” he said. Once participants from the 2025/26 cohort complete their theoretical learning and practical experience, they will join an alumni network of over 1,500 Learning for Life graduates who have successfully secured employment across South Africa’s tourism and hospitality sectors. The addition of YES4YOUTH significantly bolsters the program’s ability to create job-ready graduates. Andrew Ross, General Manager of Diageo SA, noted the importance of this expanded collaboration: “A big reason for that success in South Africa is our growing partnership with the Youth Employment Service (YES) and the University of Johannesburg. Together, we’ve been able to not only train young people, but also place them into structured, real-world work experiences, where they can grow, contribute, and build momentum in their careers.” Thabo Moloi of YES4YOUTH underscored the economic necessity of job creation. Using a fitting analogy, he likened unemployment to the lack of skilled professionals to represent the country in a global mixology contest. “Having enough bartenders, will come from the creation of jobs. Jobs will allow young people to participate meaningfully in the economy. And to achieve this, services like ours need partners to get young people working,” he said. The initiative also received high praise from the government, with the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, represented by Deputy Minister Dr. Nomusa Dube-Ncube, lauding the three entities for their collaborative effort. The most powerful evidence of the program’s impact came from UJ and Learning for Life alumna, Ayanda Magele. Now employed as a hotel sommelier at the renowned Saxon Hotel, Magele shared her journey of success. “Joining the Diageo programme has truly changed my life. It is amazing what has happened in a year. I joined the programme in 2024, and was placed at the Saxon Hotel. I felt like a fish in an ocean. But the discomfort forced me to pursue greatness and grab all the opportunities that come my way. I realised that when opportunities like Learning for Life are presented, they open a door to working and learning in some of the finest spaces you may have only dreamt of being in,” she said. The partnership among Diageo South Africa, UJ’s STH, and YES4YOUTH is poised to make a significant contribution to both student careers and the future of the nation’s vital tourism and hospitality industry. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://news.uj.ac.za/news/learning-for-life-diageo-and-uj-partner-with-yes4youth-launch-hospitality-internship/

LnT Desk | 6 October 2025 Mr Price Foundation has announced an ambitious plan: to get 500,000 youth economically resilient by 2035. The target, revealed in its newly released Integrated Impact Report, comes as the country faces a youth unemployment crisis, with 7.7 million young people not in employment, education or training. The report highlights the foundation’s strides made in the past year through three core programmes that cover skills development for unemployed youth, entrepreneurship training and basic education. Octavius Phukubye, Mr Price Foundation Executive Director, said targeted impact investment of R37-million in education, skills development and entrepreneurship has created pathways to sustainable livelihoods. “Unemployment is not just a social issue—it’s a systemic risk to South Africa’s future. There is a big gap between unemployment and employability, and we are helping to bridge that.” The foundation used a data-informed approach to provide focused and collaborative programmes that addressed critical skills gaps and enhanced school functionality. These programmes showed significant measurable impact. These include: Seven in 10 of the unemployed youth trained through its JumpStart skills development programme secured jobs in the retail sector. Learners in Foundation-supported schools achieved a 20% improvement in literacy and numeracy, a decisive step in addressing South Africa’s learning crisis. Entrepreneurs supported by the Foundation generated R3.7 million in revenue, proving that small businesses can be engines of local growth. “Delivering on our strategic goals in skills development, entrepreneurship, and education directly supports several goals of South Africa’s National Development Plan and the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” said Phukubye.   From unemployment to opportunity creation JumpStart has been instrumental in training candidates to be job ready. Apart from its 70% job placement rate, rehiring rates increased by 10 points to 61%, highlighting the candidates’ long-term value in the retail job market. JumpStart also serviced 78% of Mr Price Group’s entry-level vacancies. “Our job is to build youth economic resilience by equipping young people with the skills, networks and opportunities to participate meaningfully in the economy,” said Phukubye. For many candidates, the impact went beyond employment. Participants reported greater confidence, financial independence and improvement in their home lives. Sandile Bhengu, an assistant store manager at Mr Price Home Galleria in Amanzimtoti, said he was able to turn his life around for the better after joining JumpStart almost a decade ago. “I applied for many jobs and training during my long six years of unemployment, but nothing came through. Then in 2016 I did JumpStart. Life has improved a lot for me.” For Hlengiwe Mthobeni, an intern from Cape Town, JumpStart gave her the opportunity to enter the retail sector. “It equipped us with valuable skills, knowledge and networks. We are now ready to apply them in the retail environment.” The foundation is looking to expand the JumpStart programme by partnering with new potential employers and entering into new industries such as tourism, ICT and business process outsourcing. Reversing the education crisis In the past year, the Foundation’s EduRise education programme has supported over 13,000 learners and 400 educators across 21 low-income primary schools in Hammarsdale, KwaZulu-Natal. Foundation-supported schools have seen a nearly 20% improvement in literacy and numeracy – a decisive step toward reversing South Africa’s learning crisis. “These gains ripple outward, improving not only academic results but also long-term prospects for thousands of children,” said Phukubye. School management, long a sore point in South African education, saw a 9,5% improvement. It assessed schools throughout the year on nine elements that included leadership, parent participation and pedagogy. It also trained educators in technology and best practice and created a community of practice so that participating schools could learn from each other. “We viewed collaboration between schools as a mechanism to exchange ideas and share management methods. At the end of the programme, we a saw a significant uptick in school functionality,” said Phukubye. Looking ahead In the 20 years since the Foundation’s inception in 2005, the three core programmes have impacted more than 200,000 South Africans. Now it prepares to more than double its reach within a space of 10 years. And Phukubye believes it can be achieved. “We looked at the scale of our resources, our capabilities and the partners we have and figured we could impact twenty times the amount of young people that we had in the past year. It is about making our contribution in the best way possible,” he said. To continue this momentum of growth, the Foundation is looking to expand its programmes by driving growth in institutional fundraising and strategic partnerships, improve technology within the organisation to remain a data-driven organisation and foster deeper engagement with communities in which it operates. Furthermore, it wants to position itself as South Africa’s most impactful youth empowerment-focused corporate foundation. “Candidates entered our programmes uncertain of their future and left with the confidence to shape it. We want to help as many young South Africans transform into economically resilient individuals as possible,” said Phukubye. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://lifestyleandtech.co.za/business/article/2025-10-06/mr-price-foundation-targets-empowering-500000-youth-by-2035-to-tackle-sas-unemployment-crisis

Konica Minolta South Africa | 2 October 2025 According to Stats SA, South Africa’s official unemployment rate rose to 32.9% in the first quarter of 2025. In light of national efforts to reduce youth unemployment and address the persistent skills gap in South Africa, Konica Minolta South Africa reaffirms its commitment to skills development through the National Technical Learnership Programme, under the leadership of National Warehouse Manager, Marcus Mzobe. The programme combines practical work experience with formal theoretical instruction to equip young South Africans with technical and digital skills required in today’s evolving printing and office automation industry. Learners undergo mentorship, real-world servicing tasks and module-based assessments using internationally recognised platforms. Through a partnership with Impactful, participants work towards earning a nationally recognised technical support qualification. Applicants are carefully selected through quizzes, interviews and evaluations to identify individuals with aptitude, dedication and potential for growth. Graduates of the programme have already made meaningful contributions to Konica Minolta’s operational teams, improving service standards and company performance. This learnership directly supports objectives set out in the National Skills Development Plan (NSDP), aligning with government calls for job readiness, workplace integration and digitally aligned education pathways. The increasing need for software and technical integration in the office automation and printing industry underscores the urgency and relevance of this training. Mzobe, whose own journey began as an apprentice, brings passion and perspective to the initiative. He regards empowerment not merely as an economic necessity, but as a moral and social imperative. His vision includes expanding into IT-related learning programmes, with a pilot in end-user computing already under way and a new NQF Level 5 qualification in the pipeline for 2026. Feedback from participants and graduates continues to shape the programme. Constructive insights are embraced as a catalyst for continual improvement, reflecting Konica Minolta South Africa’s belief in dynamic, learner-driven development. Companies seeking to implement similar programmes are urged to approach them with not just resources, but with heart. As Mzobe affirms, true empowerment is fostered through dedication, belief and authentic care. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.itweb.co.za/article/the-critical-importance-of-skills-development-in-modern-industry/KA3WwMdzR54vrydZ

Asemahle Vumsindo | 28 September 2025 The Makana Winds of Change Community Trust, which holds 26% of shares in the Waainek Wind Farm project, reaffirmed its commitment to socio-economic development in Makhanda and surrounding communities during its recent annual general meeting at the BB Zondani Community Hall. The Waainek Wind Farm, a 23.6 MW facility comprising eight Vestas turbines, has been fully operational since January 2016. The Trust’s stake in the project allows it to channel resources toward transformative community initiatives in line with its mission to address unemployment, education gaps, and social challenges. The Trust’s programmes target beneficiaries across all age groups. Key focus areas include: Birth to 2 years: Maternal and infant health through early care and nutrition. 2 to 6 years: Early childhood development and access to quality ECD services. 6 to 13 years: Literacy, numeracy, and school retention support. 13 to 18 years: Adolescent and high school youth empowerment, leadership, and resilience development. 18+ years: Tertiary education, skills development, livelihoods, economic development, and access to basic services and infrastructure. Education and community engagement The Trust continues to support GADRA’s QondaConnect programme, which tackles literacy challenges in schools by integrating content subjects like Natural Science into literacy instruction. The initiative provides teachers with curriculum-aligned materials and in-classroom mentoring, currently reaching 2 797 learners.In a partnership with Rhodes University, the Trust supports the Rhodes University Community Engagement (RUCE) Social Innovation Hub. The hub provides training, mentoring, and enterprise development opportunities for local entrepreneurs, with 10 Mini Hubs benefiting hundreds of community members annually. Sports and youth development Youth-focused programmes, such as the Mfuzo Boxing Camp, receive support for coaching, transport to tournaments, team-building camps, and skills training. The camp trains school-aged boys and girls (14–18 years) and adults (19–40 years), with 29 boys and 25 girls currently enrolled. Capacitation for local CBOs This initiative provides community-based organisations (CBOs) with mentorship and training in governance, financial management, sustainability planning, proposal writing, and statutory compliance. The programme currently supports Mfuzo Boxing Camp, Makhanda Neighbourhood Crime Watch, and Ubuntu Bethu. Call for proposals The Trust has issued a call for proposals from organisations operating within the Makana Local Municipality. Priority areas include economic development, job creation, social cohesion, community wellness and safety, skills development, and education across all age groups, including youth and NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training). Proposals must be submitted by 31 October 2025 to Bonolo Pule at b.pule@knowledgepele.com . Eligible organisations must be registered for at least two years, have sound financial management, and demonstrate the capacity to monitor and evaluate their projects effectively. Through these efforts, the Makana Winds of Change Community Trust aims to foster sustainable growth, empower youth and vulnerable populations, and improve the quality of life for communities across Makana. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://grocotts.ru.ac.za/2025/09/28/change-blows-into-community-programmes/

It is fair to surmise that the points earned on Supplier Development, especially since Enterprise & Supplier Development is a Priority Element, will impact an organisation’s overall scorecard. Statement 400  of the Amended General B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice allocates 10 Weighting Points with a compliance target of 2% Net Profit After Tax, based on the following criteria:   2.2 Supplier Development 2.2.1     Annual value of all Supplier Development Contributions made by the Measured Entity as a target percentage.   There are another 2 Bonus Points available for job creation and elevation from an Enterprise Development Beneficiary to a Supplier Development one.   It is therefore vital that the Supplier Development Strategy of an organisation reflects the importance of this element. A Beneficiary must be identified as per the criteria in the correct timeline. The contract should highlight all interventions and contributions with evidence to support those contractual obligations were met.   Enterprise & Supplier Development Services are available to guide Members on the implementation of Sustainable Supplier Development initiatives.

More than any other element under the Amended General B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice, Enterprise & Supplier Development was carefully crafted so that each of the sub-elements complement one another.   The Amended General B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice, in terms of Enterprise & Supplier Development, have no limitation on a chosen beneficiary, other than that they align with Statement 400   of the Amended General B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice. The total Weighting Points this element has on offer is 46 on the overall scorecard, including Bonus Points.   The best-case scenario is going above and beyond the sub-minimum requirements, whereby this element can boost an organisation's B-BBEE Scorecard. The worst-case scenario for not meeting sub-minimum requirements is the discounting of one B-BBEE Status Level.   If implemented as the Amended General B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice designed it, an organisation would embrace an Enterprise Development Beneficiary.  Then they would procure goods or services from them and then elevate them to a Supplier Development Beneficiary and forge a supplier relationship with them. The results would see the Preferential Procurement sub-element reap the rewards as outlined in Statement 400  of the Amended General B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice.   Therefore, with the tools to succeed written into this element, it is baffling why organisations choose to leave more than 40% of their total B-BBEE scorecard to chance.   Enterprise & Supplier Development Services  are available to advise Members on how best to approach the Enterprise & Supplier Development element.

Eunéne Levine | 30 September 2025 A strategic analysis of South Africa's National Entrepreneurship Strategy (NES), proposing collaborative public–private partnerships to bridge skills gaps and foster sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem development. 1. Executive summary: From blueprint to shared success The draft National Entrepreneurship Strategy represents a critical and timely policy intervention aimed at leveraging entrepreneurship to address South Africa's persistent challenges of youth unemployment and economic stagnation. The strategy correctly identifies skills development as a foundational pillar for fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial culture and enhancing the sustainability of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The central thesis of this analysis is that while the NES provides a conceptually sound and welcome blueprint, its successful implementation requires a collaborative, ecosystem-wide approach to overcome deep-seated, systemic challenges. This paper explores those challenges and proposes a framework for public-private partnership to ensure the strategy's success. The analysis finds that the skills gap in South Africa stems from a significant methodological gap between policy and implementation. The formal education and training system, as currently constituted, exhibits a disconnect between its outputs and the practical, real-world demands of a dynamic economy. This is compounded by challenges in institutional coordination, data intelligence, and a pedagogical approach that often prioritises theory over application. Furthermore, the report finds that skills, while necessary, are not a sufficient condition for entrepreneurial success. A skilled entrepreneur's potential can be constrained by a challenging operating environment characterised by infrastructural limitations, constrained access to finance, and a complex regulatory framework. These challenges are best addressed through a spirit of genuine collaboration between the state and key private sector stakeholders, a partnership the NES rightly seeks to foster. In conclusion, the path forward lies in evolving from a mandate for skills development to a pragmatic, action-oriented strategy that prioritises genuine public-private partnership, a significant enhancement of entrepreneurial education pedagogy, and a simultaneous, high-impact focus on all five pillars of the NES. The strategy's ultimate success will be determined not by the elegance of its design, but by the robustness of its collaborative implementation in the face of long-standing systemic friction. 2. Introduction: Contextualising the national imperative South Africa is grappling with one of the world's most significant youth unemployment challenges. The unemployment rate for young people aged 15–34 was estimated at 60.8% in 2024, up from 38.2% in 2018. This demographic group constitutes nearly one-third of the nation's population, making their economic inclusion a central pillar for social and economic stability. This situation is further compounded by a pronounced skills gap; over 60% of South African companies identify skills shortages as a key barrier to business transformation by 2030, a phenomenon described as a "misalignment between the skills South African employers demand, and the skills our young people possess". The small business sector, widely regarded as a potential engine for job creation, is characterised by low survival rates and stagnant growth, creating far too few economic and employment opportunities to absorb the millions of unemployed citizens. In response to this national imperative, Cabinet approved the publication of the draft National Entrepreneurship Strategy (NES) and its Implementation Plan in mid-September 2025. The strategy is positioned as a visionary blueprint to enhance the involvement of young people and historically disadvantaged businesses in the economy by promoting entrepreneurship and ensuring the sustainability of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This policy is not a new beginning, but rather the third iteration of a national small enterprise development strategy, building on the foundation of the 1995 White Paper and the subsequent Integrated Strategy for Entrepreneurship and Small Enterprises (ISPESE). The NES is designed to be a strategic roadmap that integrates the work of other key departments and partners, aiming to coordinate the entire ecosystem for entrepreneurship development in the country. This report offers a constructive examination of the NES, with a particular focus on its skills dimension. The purpose is to move beyond a descriptive summary and provide a rigorous, evidence-based analysis of how the proposed framework can be collectively strengthened to genuinely transform the national skills landscape and, by extension, the economic prospects of South Africa's youth. 3. The Policy Framework: A Blueprint for Skills and Ecosystem Reform The NES is a multifaceted policy framework structured around five key pillars, with "Enhancing entrepreneurship education and skills development" occupying the first position. The strategy explicitly recommends that entrepreneurship be incorporated into the curricula of the departments of Basic and Higher Education as a "viable career choice". This proposal is not a radical departure from existing policy but rather an amplification of a pre-existing mandate. The Department of Basic Education has already been pursuing a Sector Plan for Entrepreneurship Education in Schools: 2030, and its E3 (Entrepreneurship, Employability and Education) initiative, launched in 2018, has been piloting project-based learning methodologies in schools to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset among learners. The E3 initiative's ambitious objective is to have 100% of learners develop the necessary skills, knowledge, and solution-oriented mindsets to complete school, study further, gain employment, or start their own enterprises by 2030. The NES is conceived not as a standalone policy but as a coordinating instrument designed to harmonise government efforts with private sector stakeholders. It is intended to align with and add value to other major national plans, including the National Integrated Small Enterprise Development (NISED) Masterplan, the National Development Plan (NDP), and the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP). The Department of Small Business Development's Annual Performance Plan for 2024-25 explicitly lists the implementation of the recently developed National Entrepreneurship Strategy as a key objective, with a commitment to support 10,000 youth-owned enterprises within that financial year. A critical feature of the NES is its recognition of the complex, systemic nature of entrepreneurship development. While the skills pillar is central, it is presented alongside four other equally vital areas: facilitating technology exchange and innovation; improving access to finance and markets; optimising the business regulatory environment; and promoting awareness and networking. This holistic approach acknowledges that a skilled entrepreneur is only one component of a successful ecosystem, and that an entrepreneur's ability to thrive is dependent on a supportive and collaborative environment. 4. A system under strain: The gap between policy and reality While the NES presents a compelling vision, an analysis of the existing landscape reveals a significant gap between policy intent and practical outcomes. South Africa's education system, despite a curriculum that aims to equip learners with the knowledge and skills for self-fulfilment and meaningful societal participation, has not yet consistently produced a workforce with the competencies required by the economy. The National Curriculum Statement Grades R-12 already espouses principles such as "high knowledge and high skills" and "active and critical learning". Yet, research indicates that the current approach to entrepreneurship education (EE) is not yet yielding the desired effect of producing "business-minded youth". The core of this challenge lies not in the absence of an entrepreneurship curriculum, but in the methodology of its delivery. Entrepreneurship is currently fragmented and incorporated into existing subjects such as Life Skills and Economic Management Sciences, rather than being a standalone subject with dedicated pedagogical focus. This diluted approach appears to be a significant factor behind the prevailing skills gap. The data reveals a clear and critical leverage point for intervention: 96% of teachers cite a lack of training as a major impediment to the effective implementation of entrepreneurship education. This presents a significant opportunity for targeted public-private partnerships to provide the necessary training and support to our educators, directly empowering them to deliver on the NES's goals. Even with a policy mandate from the highest levels of government, the frontline implementers require enhanced capacity, knowledge, and support to translate that mandate into tangible results. The need for greater commitment from business people to support schools with entrepreneurship skills further highlights an opportunity to build a more cohesive and supportive ecosystem that extends beyond the state. The skills planning system itself is hampered by challenges in data accuracy and coordination that contribute to the chronic skills mismatch. While the Skills Development Act (SDA) provides an institutional framework to develop and improve the skills of the South African workforce, the system's effectiveness is impacted by these data challenges. Academic analysis points to the complexities of the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), noting that the process is "too complex" and affected by "poor data coming from employers". This can lead to a situation where skills development funding is not optimally directed. The absence of a standardised, empirical approach to labour market research means the system is essentially operating with limited visibility, unable to always accurately identify and respond to real industry demand. The NES's aim to "coordinate the ecosystem" can therefore be powerfully advanced through a collaborative reform of the fundamental data collection and analysis mechanisms that underpin the entire skills development landscape. Without this, any new strategy, regardless of how well-intentioned, will be built on a foundation of incomplete intelligence. 5. Beyond the formal curriculum: The ecosystem of shared challenges The National Entrepreneurship Strategy correctly acknowledges that skills development is only one of five critical pillars for fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. This recognition is vital, as a skilled entrepreneur, no matter how capable, operates within a challenging operating environment requiring collective action. The success of the skills pillar is therefore inextricably linked to our collective progress on the other four pillars. A skilled entrepreneur's journey can be impacted by persistent financial, infrastructural, and regulatory hurdles. Access to finance remains a significant barrier, with only one in five SMEs reportedly able to secure the funding they need to grow their businesses. Traditional lending practices, which often rely on collateral and rigid credit scoring systems, can financially exclude the "missing middle" of small and early-stage enterprises. Furthermore, a significant portion of entrepreneurial energy and resources is diverted to navigating the operating environment. The South African economy faces external factors such as energy disruptions (loadshedding), water shortages, and supply chain bottlenecks. The case studies of entrepreneurs who have pivoted their businesses to supply backup power solutions in response to loadshedding illustrate a diversion of entrepreneurial effort from innovation and growth to a primary focus on business continuity and resilience. The NES's promise to foster an "enabling environment" presents an opportunity for public and private sectors to collaborate on addressing these foundational challenges with shared urgency. On a deeper level, the regulatory environment itself is perceived by some in the private sector as an obstacle to growth. The Centre for Development and Enterprise (CDE) has argued that some government interventions, rather than fostering a dynamic small business sector, have made it more difficult for enterprises to survive and expand. This sentiment is underscored by Business Unity South Africa (BUSA), which initiated legal action against the state over what it deemed "unworkable" Employment Equity Sector Targets. The business community's expressed frustration with a perceived lack of "meaningful consultation" points to a trust deficit that can be bridged through the collaborative partnerships the NES requires to succeed. The strategy's pillars are not independent components; they are a system of interdependencies. A collective failure to make progress on one pillar, such as regulatory reform or access to finance, will limit the potential of the others, including skills development. 6. Bridging the gap: Lessons from effective interventions Despite the systemic challenges, evidence from the private and non-profit sectors provides a clear roadmap for effective skills training and development. These successful interventions demonstrate that a practical, hands-on, and outcome-oriented approach can yield tangible and measurable results. The PwC Faranani Rural Women Training Initiative, for instance, focuses on providing highly practical business management skills, including the ability to draft a business plan, understand financial concepts like costing and break-even analysis, and implement effective marketing strategies. The outcomes of this initiative are compelling: 68% of its graduates have reported an increase in business profitability, with one participant successfully increasing her revenue by 20% on a consistent monthly basis. The UNIDO Entrepreneurship Curriculum Programme (ECP) similarly demonstrates the power of practicality. Its curriculum is "action-oriented," with more than 50% of the program's time dedicated to practical research, such as identifying business opportunities and learning from successful entrepreneurs directly. This approach stands in stark contrast to the fragmented, theory-heavy curriculum currently in place in much of South Africa's basic education system. A study on the teaching methods for entrepreneurship in South African universities reinforces this perspective, highlighting that the most effective pedagogy includes "business plan development" and practical, experience-based learning. 7. The path forward: A call for ecosystem collaboration Overcoming the systemic challenges facing South Africa's entrepreneurial landscape is not the sole responsibility of the government but requires a concerted, collaborative effort from all stakeholders. The National Entrepreneurship Strategy provides the ideal framework for such a partnership. The private sector, with its deep industry knowledge and practical expertise, is uniquely positioned to support the NES and help bridge the gap between policy and real-world outcomes. This can be achieved through concrete Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models focused on high-impact areas. One of the most critical areas for collaboration is in curriculum co-creation. Organisations with proven track records in practical entrepreneurship training can partner with the Department of Basic Education to co-design and pilot hands-on, action-oriented entrepreneurship modules. These modules, grounded in real-world business principles, can be integrated into the national curriculum to provide learners with the practical skills they need to succeed. Another high-impact opportunity lies in teacher training. The private sector can play a pivotal role in addressing the training gap identified among educators by funding and facilitating specialised teacher training programs. Led by experienced entrepreneurs and business educators, these programs can equip teachers with the confidence and competence to deliver the new, practical entrepreneurship curriculum effectively. Finally, a national mentorship network can be established, powered by private sector volunteers. By connecting experienced business leaders with aspiring young entrepreneurs, we can provide the guidance, support, and network access that is so crucial for early-stage business survival and growth. At Shaper, we are committed to being an active partner in this national endeavour. We stand ready to share our expertise in curriculum design, teacher training, and mentorship to help realise the ambitious and vital goals of the NES. We believe that through genuine collaboration, we can collectively build a vibrant and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem for all South Africans. 8. Conclusion: From blueprint to shared success The National Entrepreneurship Strategy is a vital and well-conceived blueprint for unlocking South Africa's economic potential. Its success, however, is not pre-ordained. It requires a fundamental shift from a top-down, policy-driven approach to a collaborative, ecosystem-wide movement. The challenges of skills mismatches, pedagogical gaps, and a difficult operating environment are not insurmountable, but they are too complex for any single entity to solve alone. The path forward lies in a pragmatic, action-oriented strategy that prioritises genuine public-private partnership. By co-creating curricula, investing in teacher training, and building robust mentorship networks, we can transform the educational landscape. By working together to streamline regulations, improve access to finance, and stabilise our infrastructure, we can create an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive. The NES provides the architect's plan. It is now up to all of us – government, the private sector, civil society, and individual entrepreneurs – to collectively build the scaffold that will turn this vision into a lasting reality. Shaper is ready to play its part in this crucial national project, and we invite our partners across the ecosystem to join us in building a more prosperous and entrepreneurial future for South Africa. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.bizcommunity.com/article/the-architect-and-the-scaffold-a-collaborative-pathway-to-sas-national-entrepreneurship-strategy-409659a

CIPS | 30 September 2025 Chartered Institute for Procurement & Supply Southern Africa says sustainability is about reducing carbon and delivering economic parity. Business News - As global pressure mounts for businesses to embrace environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles in their operations, South Africa has a unique opportunity to lead the way globally by aligning ESG commitments with B-BBEE transformation. This is the view of Paul Vos, Regional Managing Director of the Chartered Institute for Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Southern Africa. “Where other countries focus mainly on environmental issues, we can use procurement to build greener and more inclusive supply chains, supporting black-owned SMEs while meeting global climate targets.” According to the B-BBBEE Commission’s “Analysis of Major B-BBEE Transactions” report for 2023/24, black ownership decreased to 57% in FY2023/24, down from 59% the previous year. However, black women ownership significantly increased from 20% to 37%, showing progress in gender inclusivity. At the same time, South Africa’s ESG response is gaining momentum. Many listed companies are already reporting against international standards and exporters are preparing for stringent European carbon rules. The Sanlam ESG Barometer 2024 shows that 40% of respondent companies in South Africa make use of the Taskforce on Climate-related Financial Disclosures and 33% the Carbon Disclosure Project reporting frameworks, both encouraged by the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and the South African Reserve Bank. What sets South Africa apart, Vos says, is the intersection of ESG and B-BBEE. “Sustainability in South Africa is not just about reducing carbon. It’s also about economic justice – developing local suppliers and bringing black-owned businesses into value chains. When you align these goals, you don’t just tick boxes, you create real impact.” Despite the progress that is being made, South African businesses face real challenges in implementing sustainable procurement. Many SMEs lack the systems and resources to comply with ESG requirements while reliable data on supplier environmental and social impacts remains limited. Furthermore, sustainability investments, such as renewable energy or waste reduction systems, require capital that not all suppliers can afford. Evolving regulations around carbon taxes, producer responsibility and public procurement create added complexity. However, far from being a cost, sustainable procurement is increasingly seen as an investment in business resilience. “Forward-thinking companies are already seeing the returns,” Vos says. “Whether it’s cutting electricity bills through solar power, attracting ESG-conscious consumers, or retaining access to global markets, the benefits are clear.” CIPS highlights South African leaders such as Shoprite, Woolworths, Anglo American and Nedbank for pioneering eco-conscious strategies, from renewable energy rollouts to responsible financing and circular economy initiatives. Looking ahead, CIPS predicts several key trends will define procurement across Southern Africa: Carbon becoming a standard line item in contracts. Greater adoption of circular economy principles – reuse, recycling and waste minimisation. Growing convergence between ESG and B-BBEE goals. AI tools being deployed to enhance transparency and flag sustainability risks. Vos says CIPS is committed to playing a central role in accelerating this shift. “Our mission is to ensure procurement delivers the triple bottom line – people, planet and profit – through a single, strategic approach. We’re equipping professionals with the skills they need, bringing government and business together, and sharing practical tools so that companies can move from talking to doing.” With sustainability and inclusivity no longer separate agendas, CIPS urges South African businesses to act now to make procurement the engine of a more equitable, low-carbon economy. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.knysnaplettherald.com/News/Article/Business/businesses-urged-to-align-esg-and-b-bbee-for-sustainable-procurement-success-202509290310

SA News | 28 September 2025 Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille says South Africa’s tourism sector is not a “side story” but central to the country’s economic policy, driving jobs, transformation and sustainable growth. Speaking at the World Tourism Day 2025 celebrations held at Constitution Hill’s People’s Park in Braamfontein on Saturday, De Lille highlighted the sector’s contribution to the economy and new initiatives to boost arrivals and domestic travel. “It is a profound honour to celebrate World Tourism Day 2025 here at Constitution Hill People’s Park. This is not just a venue, but a place of memory and freedom. A reminder that democracy is not only about the rights we enjoy, but about the opportunities we create,” she said. The Minister announced that the Department of Tourism has invested in the site’s development. The Department has allocated R12 million to the development of the park.  She said the Constitution Hill Precinct Development Plan designates the park as homage to the Constitutional Court in much the same way as the gardens in front of the Union Buildings.  De Lille stressed the year’s global theme: "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation", as a call for inclusive growth.  “Today, we gather to affirm a truth that grows clearer each day: tourism is not a side story, tourism is economic policy. It is a driver of jobs, of pride, and of transformation that is sustainable, inclusive, and unstoppable,” she said.  She said sustainability must translate into real benefits.  “Sustainable transformation means that tourism’s benefits must be shared widely. From our villages and townships to our metros and coastal hubs. It means that as we grow, we safeguard the treasures that define us: our land, our heritage, and our culture. This transformation is not abstract. “It is visible when a family-owned guesthouse in Bizana is fully booked, when walking tours by a young entrepreneur in Mamelodi tell our stories with pride and when a small café in Mpumalanga becomes a must-visit stop.  “This is how tourism builds not only an economy, but a nation. South Africans are rediscovering the joy of being tourists in their own land,” the Minister said.  Tourism’s economic footprint According to De Lille, domestic and international tourism continued to grow strongly in 2025. “This year during our Sho’t Left Travel Week we had 650 deals. Between January and June 2025, domestic trips increased by 14,8%, with 3.8 million holiday trips recorded contributing R15,4 billion to the GDP. During that same period, we welcomed 5 million international visitors, who spent R48,7billion. These arrivals through our port of entries mark a 12% increase. “In July 2025, we welcomed over 880 000 international visitors, a 26% increase compared to the same month last year. These figures are set to increase with the roll out of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA),” she said.  The ETA system, which will go live in October, is expected to significantly boost arrivals.  “The ETA which goes live next month in a phased approach, is set to increase international arrivals by 1 million creating between 80 000 to 100 000 jobs. This will add on to the 1,8 million jobs the sector is already sustaining while contributing 8.8% to South Africa’s GDP,” De Lille said. Investments and innovation De Lille also confirmed that major international events would continue to showcase South Africa.  “Next year, South Africa will host the LIV Golf right here in Gauteng’s Steyn City and in 2027 we host the ICC Cricket World Cup. These are sporting events that translate into jobs and livelihoods,” she said.  She highlighted the Tourism Investment Summit as another milestone, where eight infrastructure projects worth nearly R1 billion were unveiled.  “The summit has been impactful with growing interest being expressed. We continue to grow the pipeline of bankable projects, which will be presented at the next year’s investment summit,” the Minister said.  De Lille also noted that young people are designing the future of tourism. This month the winners of the inaugural Tourism Hackathon were crowned. Students from 21 Higher education institutions competed to make travel experience more memorable through AI solutions.  The Minister added that projects such as the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre at SanPark’s Golden Gate had already attracted 50,000 visitors since its launch in June. Call to action De Lille called on South Africans to embrace tourism as a driver of national pride and transformation. “Friends, on this World Tourism Day, let us raise our voices with pride: We are building a tourism sector that is not just bigger, but better. Not just profitable, but inclusive. Not just competitive, but sustainable. “Here at Constitution Hill, the home of freedom and resilience, we declare that tourism is economic policy, tourism is transformation, tourism is our future,” the Minister said.  De Lille’s World Tourism Day programme concluded with a walking tour of Johannesburg’s inner city and a visit to the Soweto Expo, which she described as “live entertainment, unique hand-crafted products and an opportunity to mingle with the entrepreneurs who make tourism tick.” “Remember, every photo shared, every review posted, every memory made here tells the world: this is a country where transformation is real, and joy is everywhere,” she said. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/tourism-economic-policy-not-just-leisure-de-lille

Georgia Collins | 28 September 2025 At P&G, technology supports D/deaf and hard-of-hearing staff with live captions, transcription, visual alerts and ChatPG, building inclusive workplaces. Procter & Gamble's (P&G) commitment to sustainability and innovation extends into creating an inclusive work culture. Virginie Helias, Chief Sustainability Officer at  Procter & Gamble (P&G) , says: "We are committed to improving people's lives with innovation that delivers irresistible performance and is more sustainable." This policy of advancement isn't restricted to products alone, but also embraces workplace inclusivity. P&G actively works towards promoting a culture that is inclusive not only for its consumer base but also for D/deaf and hard-of-hearing members of its workforce, enabling all employees to contribute to the company's success. Fostering an environment where such communities can thrive is key to sparking innovation throughout the organisation. Adapting workplace facilities and technologies Central to P&G's mission is the creation of workplaces equipped to support a Disability Confident culture. This involves building adaptive environments  and providing accessible accommodations such as sign language signage, captioning on training videos and visual alert systems. An embodiment of this commitment is the IT Accessibility Hub situated in P&G's Geneva Business Centre, inaugurated in 2024. The facility serves as a resource centre, providing adaptive technologies to meet diverse employee needs effectively. By integrating these technologies, P&G ensures that D/deaf and hard-of-hearing employees, along with others, can reach their full potential. Ranked fourth in Sustainability Magazine's Top 250 Most Sustainable Companies report in 2025, P&G continues to lead by example in sustainability and inclusivity. Innovative communication tools in manufacturing Ensuring effective communication is pivotal in manufacturing settings where collaboration and coordination are essential. P&G utilises accessible communication tools and emerging technologies, like glasses with built-in captions and voice-to-text applications, to remove barriers for D/deaf and hard-of-hearing employees. These tools promote seamless interaction, diminishing the reliance on interpreters and encouraging more direct engagement among staff. “For a long time, I needed a sign language interpreter,” says Scott Van Nice, a Deaf Privacy & Responsible AI Project Manager in P&G's Global Business Services organisation. “I still do in many respects. But P&G has given me and many of my D/deaf and hard-of-hearing colleagues the confidence to be able to perform without an interpreter due to the many accessibility solutions available.” The adoption of internal tools like P&G’s generative AI, ChatPG, complements these efforts by aiding tasks such as summarising meeting notes, which further assists employees in maintaining efficiency and productivity. Community support and business success Central to P&G's ethos are its Disability Employee Support Groups. These groups are essential in providing a platform for connection and support. They empower disabled employees and their allies to feel valued and increase their unique contributions to the business. Effective support systems championed by individual managers and teams ensure that D/deaf and hard-of-hearing employees are equipped with the tools and confidence needed to succeed. In a manufacturing environment, where noise is prevalent, having an understanding and supportive team can greatly impact the experience of workers like Kayley Judd, a Deaf Fabric Care Packaging Engineer at P&G’s Lima, Ohio plant. She says: “The manufacturing environment  is not exactly quiet, but my team at the Lima plant has been incredibly supportive, clarifying anything I missed or did not understand, and invested in getting the tools that will help me succeed. "Because it can be intimidating in a manufacturing setting, having avenues of tools ready makes a world of difference.” Through these efforts, P&G not only enriches the work culture for its employees but also fuels innovation that leads to creating more accessible products and authentic representation in advertising, inherently benefiting the company's brand and consumer relations. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://manufacturingdigital.com/news/how-p-g-leverages-technology-to-support-deaf-communities

Thabo Makwakwa | 28 September 2025 The US government has revealed that South Africa remains a key gateway for investment in Sub-Saharan Africa, leveraging what is widely regarded as the region’s most advanced and industrialised economy.  Despite significant challenges, including a fraught political environment and persistent economic obstacles, the country’s relatively stable institutions and mature financial markets make it an attractive destination for foreign investors. A recent report by the US Department of State, “2025 Investment Climate Statements: South Africa,” highlights these strengths and the challenges investors face navigating this dynamic market.  The report states, “Its relatively stable institutions, independent judiciary, and robust legal framework form key pillars supporting a conducive investment environment.  Alongside a free press, mature financial markets, and experienced local partners, these factors significantly facilitate US and other foreign investments.” However, South Africa’s economic trajectory has been far from linear.  According to the report, many analysts describe 2010 to 2020 as a “lost decade,” marked by economic stagnation compounded by corruption and financial mismanagement.  The COVID-19 pandemic further delayed recovery efforts, while underlying infrastructure weaknesses continue to weigh on growth prospects. One of the most pressing issues remains the ongoing energy crisis. The state-owned power utility, Eskom, operates aging coal-fired plants suffering from years of deferred maintenance and internal corruption.  The resulting rolling blackouts, or load shedding, have disrupted industrial operations and shaken investor confidence. “While recent deployments of behind-the-meter solar capacity and improvements at Eskom slightly eased outages during much of 2024, power shortages re-emerged in early 2025,” the report notes.  Recognising the urgency, the government has crafted new regulations to allow private sector involvement in electricity transmission and plans to issue tenders for new grid infrastructure by late 2025. On the political front, the 2024 national elections led to the formation of a wide-ranging ten-party coalition government known as the Government of National Unity (GNU).  The report states that the coalition brought stability and a commitment to reviving economic growth. Still, investor skepticism persists regarding the GNU’s cautious approach to market reforms and property rights protection . “Concerns persist around policies that some view as threats to economic freedoms, particularly regarding land ownership,” the report warns.  A focal point of controversy is South Africa’s new Expropriation Act of 2024, which President Cyril Ramaphosa signed into law in December.  The legislation updates the apartheid-era framework, recalibrating compensation to a “just and equitable” standard rather than market value and allowing for “nil compensation” in targeted scenarios such as abandoned land. “This environment poses a delicate challenge for property owners and foreign investors alike, raising significant concerns about the security of land tenure and investment protection,” the report reads.  Furthermore, it highlights that “ inflammatory rhetoric from some political factions advocating illegal land seizures exacerbates the uncertainty.” South Africa’s ambitious Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) program, designed to address historical inequalities by enforcing ownership and employment criteria favouring Black South Africans, complicates foreign market entry, especially in government contracting and mergers. “To navigate these challenges, some US companies have utilised alternative routes like the Equity Equivalent Investment Program (EEIP) and Employee Share Ownership Program (ESOP),” the report points out, noting particularly positive experiences in the technology sector despite some administrative hurdles. The report states that the government actively promotes foreign direct investment through entities such as the Department of Trade and Industry and Competition (DTIC) and InvestSA, which provide streamlined services and various incentives.  Yet, it said that private sector stakeholders express concerns about the increasing politicisation of mergers and acquisitions and regulatory trends that could dampen South Africa’s investment appeal. The report also praises South Africa’s hybrid legal system, which draws from civil, common, customary, and constitutional law traditions, for offering relatively strong property and contract protections.  Still, it cautions that protracted legal proceedings and recent limits on investor-state dispute settlement access may present challenges. The US State Department report affirms South Africa’s status as a leading regional investment hub, underpinned by institutional stability, developed markets, and strategic reforms.  It advises investors to use a measured approach, “leveraging government facilitation programs while anticipating ongoing reforms and potential challenges.” ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://iol.co.za/news/politics/2025-09-28-despite-challenges-south-africa-remains-a-vital-investment-hub-us-report-reveals/