Entrepreneurs, innovators, and academics from India and South Africa gathered at Stellenbosch University on Friday to explore how strengthening cross-border cooperation can unlock new opportunities for startups, stimulate innovation, and help solve issues such as unemployment.
The Consulate General of India in Cape Town organized an interactive session titled 'Exploring the Indian and South African Startup Ecosystem,' which took place at Stellenbosch University on Friday. The event, held in partnership with Stellenbosch University, brought together entrepreneurs, startups, innovators, and specialists from both countries to examine prospects for cross-border collaboration in the startup sector.
Ruby Jasprit, Consul General of India, expressed great satisfaction with the success of startups and shared her delight that young people and entrepreneurs attended the event.
One of the most insightful discussions was the dialogue with Professor Willem Fourie, Head of the Data Science and Computational Thinking School's Innovation Policy Department at Stellenbosch University, and Ratheef Lowe. Lowe explained that he chose the path of entrepreneurship aiming to solve everyday difficulties faced by people. He also highlighted the high level of unemployment in the country and the urgent need for job creation, stating that startups and entrepreneurship can significantly bridge this gap.
Furthermore, he noted that this partnership provides a platform for effective skill application. He also pointed out that using artificial intelligence as a tool allows people to achieve significant results. He reiterated the lesson from India: universities should function not only as centers of knowledge but also as hubs for research and startups.
The story began with a simple trip through South Africa, which sparked a powerful business concept for Sahil Saffri, founder of Shiprazor—one of the fastest-growing e-commerce logistics technology platforms in Africa. Saffri mentioned that based on his experience in India's fast-growing e-commerce sector, he observed that South African businesses face serious logistical challenges, including fragmented courier networks, poor tracking systems, and scaling difficulties.
To address these issues, he launched Shiprazor—a tech logistics platform enabling retailers to optimize delivery, tracking, courier selection, and deliveries through a single dashboard. Offering key advice to budding entrepreneurs and innovators, he advised: 'Find a problem in your community or where you are, and fill that gap.'
Venture studio founder Amanpreet Singh is working to strengthen ties between India and South Africa. His vision involves combining India's technical expertise and talent with local African entrepreneurship, market potential, and inclusive digital development. He stated that emerging startups contribute to creating sustainable technological solutions for building a greener future.
In conclusion, Professor Deresh Ramjugarat thanked the Consul General for the substantive discussion directly related to the shared future of both nations. He emphasized that their duty extends beyond teaching and academic success; they must also cultivate an environment that enables students to succeed outside academia.