The new Entrepreneurship Director promises to take the EDHE programme to new heights

Mr Edwell Gumbo, the newest member of the USAf family, started at Universities South Africa on 2 April, bringing with him an impressive wealth of expertise and experience. He is the new Director of the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) programme, succeeding Dr Norah Clarke who resigned last December.

His arrival heralds a new chapter of innovation, growth, and empowerment within higher education.

Born in Zimbabwe, Edwell’s journey has been one characterised by resilience, ingenuity, and a commitment to excellence. Having made South Africa his home since 2001, he began his career in the field of metallurgy, quickly distinguishing himself through his dedication to quality testing and his pursuit of excellence. These early experiences laid the groundwork for subsequent ventures into education and entrepreneurship.

He went on to join the public service, driving skills development and entrepreneurship as Deputy Director for Skills Development and Acting Director for small and medium enterprises development (SMEs) for the City of Johannesburg. Here, Edwell coordinated skills and SME development in the City’s departments and municipal owned entities, fostered entrepreneurship and empowered SMEs to thrive in the competitive world of business. This earned him a reputation as a visionary leader and a champion of economic growth and development.

Among Edwell’s many accomplishments are his pioneering work in supporting start-ups at Wits University’s Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct and facilitating the internationalisation of startups within South Africa. Through an innovative programme between South Africa and Ireland, the Irish Tech Challenge South Africa, he led in supporting local entrepreneurs with the tools and resources they needed to tap into global markets and expand their reach. The Irish Tech Challenge South Africa is funded by the Government of Ireland through the Embassy of Ireland, the Department of Science and Innovation and Technology Innovation Agency. His efforts not only helped to facilitate growth and expansion of startups but also positioned South Africa as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship on the global stage.

Edwell has been actively involved in mentoring and supporting entrepreneurs through his work as a Business Mentor at EdTech Hub, in a programme funded by the Mastercard Foundation and The Innovation Hub. At the EdTech Hub, he supported entrepreneurs in the educational technology space right across the continent. At the Innovation Hub, he fostered innovation, and created opportunities for growth and success. His passion for entrepreneurship and his commitment to contribute to a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem has earned him speaking engagements in local and international events within the ecosystem.

Before joining USAf, Edwell served as the Head of Enterprise Development at University of the Witwatersrand’s tech hub, Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct. He was also a Director of the Wits Entrepreneurship Clinic, where he leveraged university resources to support entrepreneurs within and beyond the university ecosystem. His experience and expertise in this area qualified him to lead the EDHE programme and drive entrepreneurship development across the higher education sector. Having convened a variety of stakeholder engagements in South Africa and abroad, Edwell understands the need to coordinate multiple stakeholders towards creating a vibrant university entrepreneurial ecosystem. He believes that for the ecosystem to thrive and enable economic growth, the collective strength of the quadruple helix (academia, government, industry and civil society) should be unlocked through a strategic intent.

Recognising the challenges and opportunities inherent in transitioning from a university-based programme to a sector-wide initiative, Edwell envisions a future where students and academics are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and resources they need to succeed in an ever-changing and increasingly competitive global economy to enable entrepreneurial universities. Through collaboration, innovation, and strategic partnerships, he aims to maximise the impact of the EDHE programme and create new opportunities for growth and success.

He brings with him a leadership philosophy rooted in collaboration, empowerment, and innovation. He believes in creating a supportive and inclusive environment where team members are encouraged to think creatively, take initiative, and push the boundaries of what is possible. His strategic vision and unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation should drive the EDHE programme to new heights of success and impact.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Edwell is a passionate advocate for higher education and lifelong learning. He holds an MBA from the Nelson Mandela University, an MPhil in Entrepreneurship from the University of Pretoria and is currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Pretoria, where his thesis is currently on examination. His research focuses on the impact of digital innovation on entrepreneurial activity within university-owned hubs, reflecting a deep commitment to understanding and driving innovation in the higher education sector.

Outside of work, Edwell finds solace and inspiration in the great outdoors and his Christian upbringing. A beginner cyclist and golfer, he enjoys the physical and mental challenges of these pursuits and finds joy in the beauty and serenity of nature. These personal passions serve as pillars of strength and balance in his life, giving him the energy and inspiration he needs to tackle new challenges and pursue his goals.

With this set of credentials and his commitment to excellence, the EDHE programme seems destined to reach new heights, creating opportunities for innovation, empowerment and growth for student entrepreneurs and academics across the university sector.

Kayley Webster is a Communication Consultant for Universities South Africa.