Ebène, 24 June 2025: The National Productivity and Competitiveness Council (NPCC) hosted a dissemination workshop on 24 June 2025, presenting research findings on Leadership and Management Practices in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The event brought together key stakeholders from the private sector, academia, government and development institutions to discuss actionable insights aimed at enhancing SME productivity and growth.
In his welcome address, the Executive Director of NPCC, Mr. Vinaye Ancharaz, emphasised the critical role of SMEs as the backbone of Mauritius’ economy, stating, “Leadership is the catalyst for transformation. Our research underscores the need for tailored, context-sensitive solutions to address the unique challenges faced by SME managers. This study is not just a report—it is a call to action for a productivity movement that puts people at the centre.”
The research, conducted over several months, engaged entrepreneurs, managers and ecosystem enablers to map the current leadership landscape in SMEs. The study aligns with the 2025–2026 National Budget, which prioritises research, data-driven decision-making and productivity-led growth. The establishment of the National Research and Innovation Institute further highlights the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and evidence-based planning, according to Dr. Ancharaz. The findings of the research can be accessed here.
The Executive Director also announced the upcoming Leadership Development Programme for SME Managers, a collaborative initiative designed to translate research findings into practical support for entrepreneurs. “Today’s discussions are just the beginning. We invite all stakeholders to co-create solutions that will shape the future of our SME sector,” he added.
The workshop featured interactive sessions led by Dr. Anita Ramgutty, the lead consultant for the research, who highlighted the importance of participatory approaches in addressing SME challenges. Participants engaged in lively discussions, sharing experiences and recommendations to strengthen leadership practices and policy frameworks.