UEM launches exclusive course for young women in social entrepreneurship

It was at the Faculty of Law of Eduardo Mondlane University (UEM), in Maputo, that the project “Social Entrepreneurship for Women – Class IMPAR” took shape on May 12, 2026. The launch ceremony brought together more than 15 trainees selected from around 200 applications, marking the start of an international training program that promises to transform young women into agents of change in the social economy of Sub-Saharan Africa.

This initiative arises within the framework of the ÍMPAR Project – “Empowering Women in Sub-Saharan Africa as Promoters of the Social Economy” – funded by the European Union's Erasmus+ program. The objective, in this case, is clear: to strengthen the entrepreneurial skills of young women, while promoting economic inclusion and sustainable development.

The opening of the class was led by the project coordinator, Professor Eduardo Chiziane, who took advantage of the symbolic location to deliver an inspiring message. “Being at the Faculty of Law symbolizes the recognition of women's right to undertake and lead change in their communities,” stated the professor. During the event, he also highlighted the importance of education for female autonomy and the transformative role of women in the social economy.

Lasting one month and offering international certification, the course focuses on a practical and multidisciplinary approach. The participants, aged between 18 and 20, will have the opportunity to explore topics such as female leadership, social business management, the development of sustainable initiatives, and creating a positive impact in communities.

It's worth remembering that the selection of participants was highly competitive: nearly 200 young women applied for the 15 available places. This demonstrates, according to the organizers, the growing female interest in innovative solutions in the social field.

The ÍMPAR Project, however, did not arise from an isolated effort. On the contrary, it results from an international partnership that includes the Polytechnic Institute of Lisbon (Portugal), the University of Cape Verde, the University of Mindelo, the Technical University of Angola, the Independent University of Angola, and the Pedagogical University of Maputo, among other African and European academic institutions.

Finally, according to the organizers, the training aims to empower young women to develop sustainable social businesses. In this way, it is hoped to contribute to reducing gender inequalities and, simultaneously, to strengthening the local economy in the sub-Saharan region.