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A dynamic fusion of theory and hands-on application
In a recent stride towards educational excellence, Inhlanyelo Hub NPC hosted the Design Thinking and Entrepreneurship Capstone Train-the-Trainer Programme on 17 and 18 November 2023. This thoughtfully curated six-week initiative aims to equip participants with a profound understanding of design thinking, entrepreneurship and their practical applications.
Programme participants
Through the infusion of design thinking and human-centred design principles, attendees are poised to take the lead in conceptualising and executing capstone projects within their respective colleges. These capstone initiatives will culminate in an annual design expo, serving as a platform for students to showcase the culmination of their year-long projects.
The course uniquely integrates theoretical concepts with hands-on activities, ensuring a comprehensive and immersive learning experience for all participants. This strategic approach guarantees that graduates not only emerge well-versed in theoretical concepts, but are also highly proficient in navigating the dynamic challenges and opportunities inherent in the ever-evolving entrepreneurial landscape.
Dr Tapiwa Muzata, the Project Manager at Inhlanyelo Hub, emphasised the workshop's significance: "This initiative aims to inspire Unisa staff members to integrate design thinking and human-centred design principles into their teaching methodologies. The programme not only imparts valuable techniques, but also encourages colleagues to seamlessly blend their conventional teaching approaches with innovative methods that align with the dynamic landscape of contemporary education."
Prof Raphael Mpofu, Interim Chief Executive Officer at Inhlanyelo Hub, and Dr Tapiwa Muzata, Project Manager at Inhlanyelo Hub
Muzata said that the initiative aligns perfectly with Inhlanyelo’s mission to be a hub of transformative education and groundbreaking ideas, resonating beyond academia into the broader landscape of entrepreneurship and innovation.
"Following this inaugural rollout," continued Muzata, "our vision extends to include a broader spectrum of staff members in the initiative, aimed at integrating entrepreneurship into our teaching, learning, and research endeavours. As more staff members engage in this programme, our collective efforts will propel Unisa toward the realisation of its aspiration to become an entrepreneurial university."
Muzata said that given adequate funding, Inhlanyelo’s ambition is to enable participants to attend capstone expos akin to the esteemed events hosted by institutions like Georgia Tech for its students. He concluded: "This immersive experience holds the potential to offer invaluable exposure to our colleagues, serving as a compelling demonstration of the possibilities that unfold for Unisa when we wholeheartedly embrace an entrepreneurial culture in our approaches to teaching, learning, and research."
Visit Inhlanyelo Hub for more opportunities.
* Submitted by Inhlanyelo Hub
Publish date: 2023/12/12
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