FROM CLASSROOM TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP: HIPE AWARDS OVER 4 MILLION FCFA TO SUPPORT ALUMNI BUSINESSES

Noela Lekuna, Overall Winner of the HIPE Business Incubation Award receiving support valued at over 4,000,000 FCFA

At the Higher Institute of Professional Excellence (HIPE), education goes beyond the classroom. It transforms ideas into opportunities and students into entrepreneurs. 

During the HND/BTS Defense Program, HIPE proudly celebrated outstanding alumni-led businesses through its Entrepreneurship Initiative. This milestone event reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to fostering innovation, enhancing employability, and empowering graduates to become job creators. Originally launched during HIPE’s Entrepreneurship Week in December 2025, the competition provided a platform for students and alumni to present innovative business ideas before a panel of experts. Through personalized mentorship, coaching, and strategic guidance, participants refined their projects into viable and sustainable enterprises.

Founders of Trust way logistics; currently studying in the Transport and Logistics department at HIPE

Founder of House of sassy, HIPE alumna,  studied in the Human Resource department

Emerging as the overall winner was HIPE alumna Noela Lekuna, founder of Eagerness Farms, an innovative poultry enterprise committed to sustainability and food security. In recognition of her outstanding vision and entrepreneurial excellence, she received the prestigious HIPE Business Incubation Award, valued at over 4,000,000 FCFA, to support the expansion and sustainability of her enterprise. 

In addition, two exceptional alumni-led businesses were recognized for their innovation and potential: 

•       Trustway Logistics – A dynamic parcel distribution and delivery company operating within the Wouri Division.  

•       House of Sassy – A vibrant enterprise specializing in event management and entertainment.  

These ventures were honored through the HIPE Business Launch Award, underscoring the institution’s dedication to empowering young entrepreneurs and transforming academic excellence into tangible economic outcomes.

Award winners alongside HIPE management, lecturers, and parents.  

Beyond financial support, participants benefited from expert mentorship, business coaching, and strategic guidance. This holistic approach ensures that HIPE graduates are equipped not only with academic knowledge but also with the practical skills required to thrive in today’s competitive global economy. 

This initiative stands as a testament to HIPE’s unwavering commitment to bridging the gap between education and industry. By integrating entrepreneurship into its academic framework, HIPE continues to nurture leaders, innovators, and job creators who contribute meaningfully to national and global development.  

Through initiatives like this, HIPE reaffirms its mission to develop competent professionals capable of creating sustainable solutions and driving economic growth. The success of these alumni serves as an inspiration to current and future students, demonstrating that with the right support, ideas can evolve into impactful enterprises. 

Opportunities like this are rare, and they begin at HIPE. 

Follow our official platforms to stay informed about the next edition of the HIPE Entrepreneurship Initiative, including application criteria, deadlines, and funding opportunities. Stay connected to track the progress of our entrepreneurs as we continue to support them beyond the classroom. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the next generation of innovators and business leaders. 

HIPE University Institute; Empowering Ideas, Building Futures!