South Africa celebrates youth innovation at Nka’Thuto EduPropeller Bootcamp in Limpopo
Date: 2026-04-04
By: Kanto Kai Okanto
South
Africa’s Department of Science, Technology and Innovation has concluded the
Nka’Thuto EduPropeller TechnoPreneurship Bootcamp Prize-Giving Luncheon in
Mokopane, Limpopo, marking a key milestone in efforts to promote youth-led
innovation and entrepreneurship.
The
event, held on April 1, 2026, brought together young innovators who have spent
the past year developing technology-driven solutions to address grassroots
challenges. The programme showcased a range of business concepts reflecting the
growing role of innovation in tackling local socio-economic issues.
The
ceremony was attended by the Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and
Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, who delivered a keynote address highlighting the
importance of aligning youth innovation initiatives with the country’s
long-term science and technology agenda. She emphasised the relevance of the
Department’s Decadal Plan (2022–2032) in guiding the development of a
knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy.
Participants
were recognised across several categories, including the Pitcher Award, the
Women TechnoPreneurship Award, and the Best Fourth Industrial Revolution Award,
reflecting a diverse range of ideas and technological applications.
Officials
noted that the bootcamp forms part of broader national efforts to strengthen
innovation ecosystems, support skills development, and translate knowledge into
economic impact. The initiative also underscores the role of partnerships among
government, educators, and industry stakeholders in nurturing the next
generation of entrepreneurs.
The
Department reaffirmed its commitment to supporting programmes that empower
young people to convert ideas into viable enterprises, contributing to
inclusive economic growth and technological advancement in South Africa.
