Mauritius is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and growing economy. But beyond tourism and industry, the country is also looking at its future through a different lens, education that prepares young people to be entrepreneurs. In a world where jobs are changing fast, teaching students how to start and manage businesses is becoming as important as traditional subjects.
Why entrepreneurship matters
Entrepreneurship is more than just owning a business. It is about problem-solving, creativity, and understanding the market. For Mauritius, supporting young entrepreneurs means encouraging them to create jobs, innovate, and contribute to the national economy. When students learn how to think like business owners, they are better prepared to participate in the local and global trade system.
How schools are helping
The education system in Mauritius is beginning to bridge this gap. Some schools have introduced entrepreneurship clubs where students work on small projects, learning to plan, budget, and market their ideas. These clubs are a safe space to experiment, make mistakes, and discover their strengths.
Vocational courses also play an important role. Colleges and technical institutes, like the Mauritius Institute of Training and Development (MITD) and Charles Telfair Institute, offer programmes teaching practical skills such as accounting, IT, marketing, and product design. These skills are directly relevant to running a business and understanding trade rules. For example, a student learning about e-commerce at Charles Telfair might create an online store to sell locally-made jewellery or fashion items, learning about online payments, shipping, and export regulations in the process.
Business incubators and mentorship
Beyond the classroom, Mauritius has started to create business incubators for young entrepreneurs. These centres provide mentorship, resources, and guidance to help students turn ideas into real businesses. By connecting education with practical experience, students can understand how their learning applies to the real economy.
Examples of success
Some Mauritian students have already started small ventures while still in school. From homemade products to tech services, these young entrepreneurs learn how to manage finances, deal with customers, and comply with regulations. Their success shows how education can be a stepping stone to economic contribution and personal growth.
Looking forward
To fully bridge education and entrepreneurship, Mauritius needs to continue supporting programmes that combine theory, practice, and mentorship. Schools, colleges, and universities can work with businesses to provide internships, workshops, and real-life challenges. By doing so, students will not only gain knowledge but also the confidence to innovate and thrive in a competitive economy.
In the end, teaching entrepreneurship is about more than creating business owners. It is about empowering young Mauritians to think creatively, solve problems, and play an active role in building the nation’s future.
