Kuala terengganu: Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) has launched a student entrepreneur incubator programme aimed at fostering talent development, innovation, and empowerment in entrepreneurship among its students.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, UMT's deputy vice-chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni) Prof Dr Mohd Izani Mohd Zain emphasized that the initiative, which has been in operation through the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Graduate Employability since October last year, acts as a one-stop centre. This centre showcases products developed by student entrepreneurs at the university and provides vital resources for budding business minds.

Prof Dr Mohd Izani highlighted that the incubator not only showcases student-developed products but also offers crucial services such as business mentoring, pitch training, industry monitoring, and product development support. This initiative is designed for students interested in developing and expanding their business ideas.

The incubator currently features 40 products created by students, with 10 of the businesses registered with the Companies Commission of Malaysia. The range of products includes dipping sauces, biscuits, smoked tilapia, ornamental fish, and ready-to-eat food. These products are sold directly to university members and also serve as souvenirs for university events.

Despite the programme's development beginning in October last year, it was officially launched only last week. Prof Dr Mohd Izani noted that while profit is not the primary focus, the programme aims to provide business exposure and refine product quality. It is also anticipated to be a catalyst for enhancing the campus entrepreneurship ecosystem and expanding strategic collaborations between universities, industries, agencies, and alumni, thereby empowering student entrepreneurship in the country.