On October 24, 2024, the University of Venda (UNIVEN) hosted its annual Supplier Connect Day, empowering 50 Exempted Micro Enterprises (EMEs) and Qualifying Small Enterprises (QSEs) as part of its Supplier Enterprise Development Programme. The event took place at the Life Sciences and Auditorium Parking, followed by training sessions at the Research Conference Centre on October 25.
During the Supplier Connect Day, various speakers provided valuable insights to the attendees, focusing on the ethical conduct expected when engaging in business with UNIVEN and other government entities. Compliance emerged as a key theme, underscoring the importance of adhering to established standards.
In his opening remarks, UNIVEN Chief Financial Officer Mr. Botwe Kraziya emphasised the sig-nificance of connecting with business partners. “This event is crucial for educating our suppliers about our expectations and how to conduct business with UNIVEN,” he stated. He further high-lighted the university’s commitment to supporting small businesses, noting that their growth leads to increased employment opportunities. “When these businesses succeed, the university thrives as well,” he added. Mr. Kraziya encouraged fair pricing practices among service providers, empha-sising the university’s dedication to fostering the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Prof Vhonani Netshandama, Director of the Directorate of Community Engagement, Entrepreneur-ship, Inclusive Innovation, and Commercialisation, acknowledged the essential role suppliers play in UNIVEN’s mission as an Entrepreneurial University. She remarked that the event was organised in the spirit of inclusivity, fairness, and transparency, which are foundational to the university’s values.
Other notable speakers included Tshepo Mampuru from PURCO SA, Mushe Nzero dis-cussing green technology, Ms. Kabelo Sibanyoni from SARS, Ms. Hellen Mabidi from ABSA, Mrs. Tendani Maideledzha from the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), rep-resentatives from the Limpopo Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Rabelani Mulaudzi from the Musina-Makhado Special Economic Zone, and Mr. Fhatuwani Ndou from UNIVEN.
Cllr Sarah Rambuda, Mayor of Thulamela Local Municipality, expressed gratitude to UNI-VEN for organising the event, which aims to support local small businesses. She empha-sised the need for collaboration to unlock opportunities for small enterprises and cooper-atives. Cllr Sarah Rambuda, Mayor of Thulamela Local Municipality, expressed gratitude to UNIVEN for organising the event, which aims to support local small businesses. She empha-sised the need for collaboration to unlock opportunities for small enterprises and cooperatives.
On the second day of the workshop, facilitator Mr. Rodney Moolman guided small busi-ness owners through supplier development training, focusing on how to register with var-ious government databases. He covered essential topics including public procurement principles, financial management, key considerations for bid documents, and the relevant leg-islation such as the Public Procurement Act of 2024 and the Public Finance Management Act.
This year’s Supplier Connect Day not only equipped local businesses with essential knowledge and skills but also reinforced UNIVEN’s commitment to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem within the community.
Issued by:
Department Marketing, Branding and Communication University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
