The Centre for Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Studies (CEES) is dedicated to advancing research, teaching, and community engagement in the fields of enterprise development, entrepreneurship, and digital innovation. We work closely with local communities, industry partners, and global institutions to foster a vibrant ecosystem that supports sustainable economic growth and academic excellence.
A Message from the Director
"The Centre for Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Studies recorded stellar research performance in 2025. Among our key accomplishments were significant growth in the publication of accredited research articles and book chapters, alongside a marked increase in international conference attendance. Our leadership and subgroup members were honoured to take on prominent roles as speakers and session chairs at premier international forums. Furthermore, we have solidified strategic partnerships to prepare for the International Conference on Entrepreneurship Development in 2026, and successfully renewed vital Memoranda of Understanding with prestigious overseas institutions."
Dr Tshililo Farisani
Director, Centre for Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Studies
Thought Leadership & Research Impact
In 2025, CEES researchers actively shaped global and local discourse on digital entrepreneurship, fintech, and community enterprise development:
International Academic Forum (Tokyo, Japan)
At the May 2025 IAFOR conference, Dr Farisani served on the official review committee and chaired AI-centric sessions. He also presented a collaborative paper on behalf of the CEES Digital Entrepreneurship Subgroup, showcasing CUT’s contributions to global digital entrepreneurship discourse.
Keynote Address: Wits University
At the September 2025 conference themed "Africa in the Era of the Digital Economy", Dr Farisani delivered the keynote address. Additionally, Dr Hoeyi (Head of Business Support Studies and CEES member) presented research on "Internal Marketing as a Managerial Tool in Fintech-enabled Banking Environments".
Local Enterprise Development (UFS Partnership)
During the October 2025 University of the Free State Community Engagement Festival, CEES facilitated discussions aligning local community engagement with enterprise development, featuring insights from local entrepreneurs such as Mr L.J. Mohapi of Seotlong Agricultural and Hotel School in Qwaqwa.
Strategic Global Partnerships
CEES continues to expand CUT’s global footprint through formalised collaborations and consortium building:
University of the West of Scotland (UWS)
In November 2025, CEES leadership participated in renewing the MoU with UWS. Dr. Farisani will lead specific CEES subgroups in this collaboration, exploring broader institutional avenues for research and student exchange.
Henan University of Engineering (China)
In December 2025, an MoU was signed to foster collaboration on entrepreneurship-related interests. CEES will work closely with the School of Management Engineering at HUE to drive joint initiatives.
2026 International Conference Consortium
CEES has partnered with Durban University of Technology, National University of Lesotho, Botho University, University of Fort Hare, and Vaal University of Technology to co-host the International Conference on Entrepreneurship Development in Durban in June 2026.
Institutional Recognition: An Engaged University
Through the dedicated efforts of CEES leadership and the Faculty of Management Sciences, the Central University of Technology has achieved a prestigious milestone. Following a rigorous consultative process and briefing session with the Accreditation Council for Engaged and Entrepreneurial University (ACEEU), CUT has been approved as one of the most engaged universities on the African continent.
Furthermore, this process has resulted in CUT being provisionally recognised as an Entrepreneurial University, validating our ongoing commitment to community impact and innovation.
ACEEU Accreditation Review Report
