UP Mastercard Scholars excel at climate enterprise school on climate innovation and entrepreneurship

University of Pretoria Mastercard Foundation Scholars shine at a pan-African sustainability summer school hosted by the University of Edinburgh and partners. Nine Mastercard Foundation Scholars from the University of Pretoria (UP) joined peers from the University of Edinburgh and the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) for the Climate Enterprise School, a dynamic, week-long entrepreneurship and innovation programme held at the Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct in Braamfontein, Johannesburg.

The Climate Enterprise School, which officially ran from Thursday, 26 June to Thursday, 3 July, brought together aspiring African changemakers committed to addressing the climate crisis through innovative enterprise. The initiative provided Scholars with opportunities to develop climate-smart business solutions, collaborate across institutions and countries, and receive mentorship from seasoned industry experts and business advisers.

Throughout the programme, participants worked in diverse teams to co-create responses to climate-related challenges impacting the continent. The UP cohort,  proudly known as the "Tuks" left a lasting impression. Two Scholars from UP received special recognition during the final pitch event on Monday:

• Fortunate Ramorwaswi (Team 7) was in the team that won Most Developed Business Plan and Best Prototype awards.
• Lettlhogonolo Senokanyane (Team 6) was part of the team awarded Most Compelling Pitch

These achievements highlight the ingenuity, collaboration, and entrepreneurial drive of UP Scholars in the sustainability space.

The week’s programme included a Pitching Workshop, team-based business development sessions, and an engaging Q&A with business advisers. It culminated in a pitch showcase, closing remarks, and a celebratory dinner that captured the pan-African spirit and the shared commitment to sustainable development.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UP and University of Edinburgh continues to demonstrate the power of global partnerships in preparing young African leaders. Initiatives like the Climate Enterprise School affirm UP’s commitment to nurturing innovation, climate leadership, and youth empowerment across the continent.

For more about the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh and its collaboration with African Universities, visit the: https://global.ed.ac.uk/mastercard-foundation

To learn more about the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria, visit: https://www.up.ac.za/mastercard-foundation-scholars-program