The Student Women Economic Empowerment Programme (SWEEP) is an EDHE initiative that empowers student women to become economically active through entrepreneurship, employability, leadership development, and professional networks.

SWEEP was established to address the underrepresentation of women in entrepreneurship and the workplace, while responding to challenges such as youth unemployment, financial dependency, and gender-based violence. By combining practical skills development with academic learning, the programme equips student women with the confidence, knowledge, and opportunities to build sustainable careers, start and grow businesses, and achieve financial independence.

Since its launch in October 2021, the Student Women Economic Empowerment Programme (SWEEP) has grown into a vibrant national community that empowers student women across South Africa’s public universities. The first SWEEP Student Chapter was established at Nelson Mandela University in 2022, followed by the launch of six chapters that same year. Between October 2023 and February 2024, SWEEP undertook a national research study to identify and address the barriers preventing student women from participating in entrepreneurship. In partnership with the British Council, the programme also provided 19 student beneficiaries from nine universities with the opportunity to participate in a UK Residential Programme in 2024. During this period, SWEEP developed its Chapter Guidebook and Constitution Template to support sustainable chapter growth. Today, the programme has expanded to 32 chapters across 22 universities, supported by 196 student committee members, with more than 650 active members and an annual reach of over 3,000 students through leadership, entrepreneurship, employability, and economic empowerment initiatives.

More than a programme, SWEEP is a sisterhood for economic participation – a national community that supports, connects, and inspires student women across South Africa’s public universities. Through training, mentorship, networking, and leadership opportunities, SWEEP helps participants develop entrepreneurial mindsets, strengthen their employability, and build resilience for long-term success.

By investing in student women today, SWEEP contributes to a future where more women are empowered to lead, innovate, create employment, and drive inclusive economic growth in South Africa.