The ceremony was attended by several notable figures, including Mr. Tichafa Mujuru, Deputy Director of the Universal Services Fund, Postal and Courier Services; SIYB Master Trainers Mrs. Anna Sachikonye and Mrs. Sibongile Sibanda; and SIYB Trainer Mr. Musiyiwa Chari. Representatives from the International Labour Organisation Global Office also joined the event remotely.
Dr. G.K. Machengete, Director General of POTRAZ, emphasized the crucial role of innovation in human progress. “From the Stone Age to the modern era, human innovation has continually improved our living conditions and means of production,” Dr. Machengete remarked. He highlighted the transformative impact of historical inventions like the Steam Engine, Light Bulb, and Printing Press, and drew parallels to today’s advancements in Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Big Data.
Dr. Machengete stressed the importance of monetizing innovations in Zimbabwe’s demanding economy. “It is pointless to be an innovator if you cannot monetize your innovations. We want to see you creating business empires, generating employment, and contributing meaningfully to Vision 2030,” he said. He underscored that entrepreneurship training is vital for turning innovative ideas into sustainable businesses.
The IYB training, following the successful SYB module, focused on enhancing operational efficiencies, improving marketing and sales strategies, and preparing participants for market expansion. Key topics covered included advanced marketing techniques, effective inventory management, sophisticated record keeping, and strategic cost management.
POTRAZ, through the Universal Service Fund, supports the growth of innovative ICT solutions that contribute to economic growth and job creation. The organization’s backing of this training program demonstrates its commitment to fostering innovation and ensuring it translates into tangible business success.
Dr. Machengete encouraged the graduates to apply the lessons learned, network, collaborate, and continuously seek ways to innovate and improve. “Your success stories will drive us to continue enhancing our support frameworks for innovators across Zimbabwe,” he concluded.
The ceremony not only celebrated the participants’ achievements but also highlighted the critical role of continuous learning and growth in today’s dynamic business landscape. The dedication and hard work of these innovators promise to lead their businesses to new heights, contributing to a sustainable and prosperous future for Zimbabwe.
Positive Eye News
