University of the Western Cape students earned national recognition after developing an affordable appliance rental business that improves student life while promoting entrepreneurship and sustainability.
A team from the University of the Western Cape (UWC) secured second place at the 2026 Enactus South Africa National Competition in Johannesburg after presenting an innovative appliance rental business designed to address everyday challenges faced by students living in university residences.
The project, developed by the UWC Enactus team, allows students to rent essential kitchen appliances such as microwaves, kettles and hotplates at affordable rates, reducing the financial burden of purchasing equipment while improving access to basic cooking facilities.
The idea was created by team leader Matee Machetele, who identified a common challenge affecting students across South Africa.
“For many students, buying appliances such as microwaves, kettles, or hotplates is simply too expensive. Sharing among large groups often leads to inconvenience, wear and tear, and even safety concerns,” said Machetele.
She said the concept started as a small side business before evolving into a profitable enterprise that was entered into this year’s Enactus South Africa competition.
The rental model offers flexible terms within student residences, making it easier for students to prepare meals while reducing financial pressure and allowing them to focus on their academic studies.
Beyond addressing an immediate student need, the initiative also promotes sustainability through shared use of appliances, reducing unnecessary purchases and encouraging more responsible consumption.
Abe Oliver, Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CEI) at UWC, said the project reflects the university’s commitment to developing young entrepreneurs capable of creating economic opportunities in a challenging environment.
“CEI remains committed to being a gateway to increase UWC students’ access to becoming economically active in a shrinking economy. Emphasis is placed on building the individual students’ levels of adaptability and self-confidence,” said Oliver.
He added that the project’s strength lies in its ability to combine sustainability with entrepreneurship by giving students practical experience in business management, customer service and operations while delivering a service with real social value.
Judges praised the project for its creativity, practicality and relevance, demonstrating that meaningful innovation can emerge from solving everyday problems with accessible, community-focused solutions.
UWC’s success extended beyond the overall competition. The university won the MTN Digital Innovation Transformation for Community Development Enactus Thematic Award and the Harmony Entrepreneurship & Business Solutions for Community Development Enactus Thematic Award.
Three UWC Enactus teams also finished in the Top 15 of the MTN Digital Innovation Competition, with each team receiving R25,000 in business funding and laptop computers to support the growth of their ventures.
Nelson Mandela University claimed the national title with its Batho Pele BioLoop Africa Farm project, which uses artificial intelligence, hydroponics and circular farming systems to transform organic, food and plastic waste into sustainable resources.
