Blog Post

A South African student entrepreneur packing small handmade product orders at a table beside an open laptop in a Cape To

Starting a Small Business While You Study

Many of our students run a small business next to their studies. It can work if you keep things simple. Pick one product or service, price it fairly and track every rand you spend and earn.
Good records make every decision easier. Dr Pieter van der Merwe
Book a consultation with a lecturer in Commerce and Management before you register anything.
A South African university tutor standing beside a lecture-hall whiteboard, holding an open notebook and a pen
Close-up of a university study desk with printed course handouts, highlighters, a laptop edge and a coffee cup

Test your idea while you study

Start small. Sell to friends and neighbours first, keep simple records and note what customers ask for. Dr Pieter van der Merwe, our Dean of Commerce, suggests treating coursework as a safe place to try your pricing and planning.

Use what campus offers

Short courses such as Digital Marketing Basics for Small Business help you find customers without a big budget. Book time with a lecturer before you register your business.

4 Comments

  1. Useful read for anyone new to teaching. The advice on setting up a classroom routine and giving feedback is practical and clear.

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