The class of 2011 Raymond Ackerman Academy graduates burst out into the world after completing the rigorous six-month entrepreneurship training programme at the University of Johannesburg (UJ)’s Centre for Small Business Development (CSBD).
Raymond Ackerman, founder and patron of the UJ/Raymond Ackerman Academy of Entrepreneurial Development, addressed the group of 61 students and handed out graduation certificates at the institution’s Soweto Campus on Tuesday, 07 February 2012.
Ackerman highlighted important aspects that contributed to business growth and success. “Remember to be patient and to embrace ethical business conduct. You are the positive role models we need in society, you are the people that the youth can look up to,” he said. “You have shown that you can work hard and that when you fall you can get up again – and that’s inspiring. There are many opportunities out there for you. I hope that you leave this Academy with the feeling ‘I can really do something’!”
The Raymond Ackerman Academy at the UJ’s CSBD runs two full-time, six-month programmes each year. It offers young and aspiring entrepreneurs from disadvantaged backgrounds, who are passionate about business and personal development, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study at one of the country’s leading business schools. The programme is sponsored and the cost to students minimal.
