The Branson School of Entrepreneurship
Following up on recent posts about what it takes to be an entrepreneur, I think it’s interesting to also consider how entrepreneurs can have a positive impact on wider society, especially in places like South Africa where they are identifying gaps, providing critical new services and creating jobs. In fact, it’s been reported* that the country’s economic growth is actually under threat because of a shortage of new entrepreneurs.
In light of this, Virgin Unite has partnered with CIDA, South Africa’s first virtually free university, to launch the Branson School of Entrepreneurship in Johannesburg. This programme identifies and nurtures budding entrepreneurs, and equips them with the skills and start-up funding to launch successful businesses of their own. The students receive intensive mentoring and are also given exposure to successful local and international entrepreneurs.
With the right support and encouragement, these young entrepreneurs can make a huge difference not only to their immediate families and communities, but ultimately the whole of South Africa.
* A report by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor in 2007
9 Responses to “The Branson School of Entrepreneurship”
Ben Young - December 15th, 2008
Entrepreneurs will stimulate change in a positive way if given the chance, hence why micro loans and services such as Kiva are so successful in making a real difference. Help those that are already trying to help themselves and they will provide leadership from within.
FaridSulaiman.com - December 17th, 2008
One day I can be rich like you and give back to the community.
Todd Heslin - December 18th, 2008
This is a brilliant and innovative concept. At a recent forum on entrepreneurship, it was widely discussed that entrepreneurship is simply not taught in our education system as a career path. The Branson School of Entrepreneurship is undoubtedly an excellent example of building the economy and social advancement on the back of entrepreneurship: a skill which can be taught and can be learned.
As a young entrepreneur myself, I would like to help facilitate the teaching of entrepreneurship in the Australian high school system. Hopefully one day this can grow into something as amazing as the Branson School of Entrepreneurship.
Darren - December 19th, 2008
I think this is a valuable start to changing cultures around the world and improving all areas of economy.
I think I would also be a good idea to do similar activities in the developed world too - and connect with the 3RD world versions. This would create emphasis on the valuable connections that can be had when linking projects around the world.
Markus Daehn - December 19th, 2008
You don’t have to be rich as Sir Dick to make a difference. A simple act of kindness is a great start. But I do applaud Branson and others like him for employing their immense resources to help the world be a little better.
Lexo Khubulava - December 24th, 2008
It would be great if Sir Richard established similar schools in other countries as well, or make the Branson School of Entrepreneurship in Johannesburg accessible to people from other countries.
Louella J Chouinard - December 28th, 2008
What I have seen ,about this man. He is a kind and a good man,but Know time to hemself.I can only wish him the best of lilf.
The Source - December 31st, 2008
Personally when it comes to the South African environment both economically as well as political there is a climate that forced people to become self-sustainable post ‘94.
The local government tried to accommodate the changes in the country by introducing things like BEE which only created a divide socially since it is clearly only benefitting certain individuals over and over again. Thus the reason the ruling party -ANC- had a split and now COPE (Congress for the People) sees the day of light.
Where I am convinced that entrepreneurship needs to be a skill learned on a certain level one also needs to acknowledge the fact that funding is a big problem when venturing into one’s own business.
Nothing provides a set back like sitting at an South African bank applying for a business loan after doing all the research and putting together a business plan only to be told “sorry, we can’t provide the funding because you are white”.
Yes sadly I know this feeling.
I had breakfast with a group of US bloggers who was touring SA earlier this month and it is their opinion that aside from gold and minerals South Africa doesn’t really offer the world that much in return.
Therefor this business school is an excellent idea to broaden those perspective on the long run.
Artemus M. Steele Sr, - January 23rd, 2009
Mr. Branson,
I’d Like to say that since I have been following you incredible achievements I have been inspired to try and start my own business. Though terrified by all the daunting tasks I have ahead you remain as an inspiration to me. But I found myself heart broke when I realized the ONLY SCHOOL that I would willingly go to (ahem)(YOURS)is WAY IN South Africa !!! NOOOOoooo I screamed !!! But Im so happy for everyone that is there. (a little jealous being here in the states) But I will keep trying but any advice or help would Greatly be appreciated !!! Thanks in advance !!
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