Abstract
M.Ed.
This study is a result of the commitment of the Eastern Cape Technikon to provide training, research and
development in skills needed by the communities it serves. The Eastern Cape Technology and
Entrepreneurship Centre (ECTEC) was established in association with the Enterprising Edge and
Niagara College. Consequently, a curriculum was made available in order to support the small, medium,
and micro entrepreneurs (SMMEs) in Butterworth by educating and training them so that they could run
their businesses successfully. Some of the issues that have arisen concerning this intervention, included
whether an investigation into the educational and training needs of SMMEs had been done, as well as
whether the proposed education and training programme would meet the needs of the intended SMME
The aim of this research is to identify and describe the educational and training needs of SMMEs in
Butterworth, by conducting a needs assessment. This needs assessment attempts to understand and
explain what SMMEs perceive to be their educational and training needs. The sample was composed of
SMMEs who are registered learners at the ECTEC. Questionnaires as well as semi—structured
interviews were used for data collection. The questionnaire items were summarised and presented in the
form of tables. The interview data was then analysed by means of a constant comparative method.
The findings of this study show that the educational and training needs of SMMEs are related to issues
like accessing finance, keeping proper records of transactions and preparation of books of business,
namely, the balance sheet, income as well as cash flow statements. SMMEs also need to know how to
undertake the marketing function of their businesses so that they can identify and reach their customers.
Finally, SMMEs need to know how to prepare and analyse business plans. These needs should, as far
as possible, be considered when designing or modifying the education and training programmes of the
SMMEs in order to ensure that training addresses these needs. It is hoped that this study will help to
make the course relevant, useful and applicable to the SMMEs in Butterworth and those studying at the
ECTEC.