Strathmore University Business School and Hanze University of Applied Sciences Unite for a Cross-Cultural Social Entrepreneurship Journey

From 4^th to 14^th August 2025, Strathmore University Business School (SBS) welcomed students from Hanze University of Applied Sciences, Netherlands, for a transformative learning experience in Social Entrepreneurship.

The programme was designed to blend theory with practice while fostering cross-cultural collaboration. Right from the start, Kenyan and Dutch students were placed in mixed teams, encouraging them to work side by side, exchange ideas, and challenge each other’s perspectives. The goal was not only to learn about entrepreneurship but to experience how business can be a tool for creating real impact.

The classroom sessions explored critical themes, including:

• Social Entrepreneurship: understanding how business models can address societal needs.
• How to Do Business in Africa: navigating opportunities and challenges within dynamic markets.
• The Art of the Pitch: equipping students with communication and persuasion skills to bring ideas to life.

Beyond the classroom, students visited some of Kenya’s most inspiring enterprises. From Mosoro Afya Flours to Burn Manufacturing, Somo Africa – Tenzenega Plant, and the iLab Innovation Center at Strathmore University, each field visit showcased innovation born at the intersection of social need and entrepreneurial drive. These encounters sparked lively discussions and new ways of thinking about how business can transform communities.

The programme culminated in a high-energy pitch competition, where student teams presented their social enterprise ideas before a panel of judges. The creativity, courage, and collaboration on display reflected not only what the students had learned but also how they had grown together through the experience.

“You didn’t just learn about social entrepreneurship — you lived it.”

This exchange was made possible by the dedication of faculty, partners, and the openness of students to learn from each other. Together, they demonstrated that when diverse minds come together with a shared purpose, innovation thrives and possibilities for impact multiply.

As SBS and Hanze University continue to nurture global collaborations, this programme stands as a reminder of the power of education, partnership, and entrepreneurship to shape a better world.

Article by Juliet Hinga