College of Business and Economics | Annual Report 2023 39 on this work were published at an international conference. Chante van Tonder graduated with a joint PhD from UJ and Vrije University Amsterdam, Netherlands. Her topic, ‘Digitalisation of Business Models in SMEs’, is 4IR focused. Several well-cited articles on her PhD were published. Mpho Tau graduated with distinction in MCom Strategic Management. Her research topic, ‘The use of digital technology by township-based entrepreneurs’, is 4IR focused. An article on this topic was published in a DHET-accredited journal. These initiatives highlight our commitment to embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and preparing our students and staff to navigate the evolving digital landscape. We continue to strive for excellence in all our endeavours, contributing to advancing knowledge and developing our staff and students. Our division is proud to be at the forefront of societal impact initiatives, contributing to the betterment of society through education, research, and innovation. We look forward to continuing our work in these areas and contributing further. NATIONAL, CONTINENTAL, AND INTERNATIONAL FOOTPRINT Our diverse group of appointed national and global scholars reflects our Chair’s commitment to internationalisation. We have the privilege of having Sascha Kraus as a Distinguished Visiting Professor, along with Adam Novotny, Billy Adegbola Oluwale, Helen Olubunmi Aderemi, Isaac Oluwajoba Abereijo, and Oluseye Oladayo Jegede serving as Visiting Associate Professors. Michael Holmes also enriches our academic community as a Visiting Professor. In addition to our visiting scholars, we have a strong team of research associates. Dr Titilayo Olubunmi Olaposi and Dr Darelle Groenewald serve as senior research associates, and Dr Kafigi Jeje contributes as a research associate. Their work significantly enhances our research capabilities and contributes to our academic excellence. Our faculty members have also made significant contributions to international conferences. Profs Danie Meyer and Natanya Meyer delivered keynote addresses at the 8th International Scientific Conference on Economics, Management and Business 2023 and the 8th International Scientific Conference Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Theory and Practice. Prof Meyer also spoke at the 9th International Scientific Conference, ‘Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Theory and Practice’. Their presentations focused on innovation, entrepreneurial activity, economic development, and entrepreneurial ecosystems. Furthermore, Prof Natanya Meyer conducted an international masterclass at the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, where she lectured on the business model canvas to master’s students. This engagement not only enriched the learning experience of the students but also fostered international academic collaboration. These initiatives underscore our commitment to fostering a vibrant academic community and promoting excellence in research and teaching. THE WAY FORWARD The South African Research Chair in Entrepreneurship Education (SARChI EE) has a significant role in preparing for the future in a volatile world and adapting to new and changing workplaces. With the first five-year term of the Chair ending mid-2024, the focus is on the reapplication of the Chair for another five-year term, aiming to upgrade the Chair’s standing to a Tier 1 Chair. The key strategies given a volatile environment are the following. Embrace the VUCA World: The VUCA world requires entrepreneurial strategies like effectuation, bricolage, pivoting, and ambidexterity. The Chair aims to incorporate these elements in Teaching and Learning activities and the curriculum to equip entrepreneurs with the skills to navigate this turbulent environment. Adapt to Technological Innovations: With the rapid pace of digital transformation, the Chair can focus on digital entrepreneurship and Innovation, preparing entrepreneurs for this digital shift. Promote Lifelong Learning: As new technological innovations emerge, the Chair aims to promote a culture of lifelong learning, ensuring entrepreneurs continually update their skills to stay relevant. Foster Adaptability: In the face of change, the Chair can help entrepreneurs develop this skill, enabling them to respond effectively to different scenarios and challenges within the workplace. By implementing these strategies, the SARChI in Entrepreneurship Education can ensure that entrepreneurs are fit for the future and can adapt to new and changing workplaces. This will not only benefit the entrepreneurs themselves but also contribute to the economic development of South Africa.
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