The University of Zambia (UNZA) has solidified its position as a leader in innovation and entrepreneurship by winning all three top prizes at the inaugural Sandbox Entrepreneurship Programme. This remarkable achievement comes just days after the program was officially launched by the Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary for Educational Services, Dr. Kelvin Mambwe.
The Sandbox Entrepreneurship Programme, a joint effort by the Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board (HELSB) and experts from Canada and Zambia, including facilitators from Ontario Tech University, brought together 50 students from five public universities. Over five intensive days, participants were immersed in hands-on training in venture building and entrepreneurial skills, gaining access to invaluable mentorship and international networks.
In his address, Dr. Mambwe lauded the initiative as a "bold and visionary" step towards fostering youth empowerment, innovation, and global collaboration in Zambia.
At the final pitch event, UNZA students dominated, sweeping all three prizes: K15,000, K10,000, and K5,000. These awards were given to one individual and two teams from the university, highlighting the depth of talent and preparation among its students. The success was championed by UNZA's Directorate of Innovation Technology Transfer and Commercialisation in collaboration with the UNZA Innovations Committee, which provided essential mentorship.
Inonge Kapya, the UNZA Innovations Chairperson, famously known as "Nono the Strategist," celebrated the win, stating, "UNZA has long deserved a seat at the innovations table and now we’re here to take the lead. This is just the beginning."
This impressive victory not only showcases the entrepreneurial potential within UNZA but also establishes the university at the forefront of problem-solving and innovation in the country.