EMS

TELIT-SA’s digital futures symposium explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping education

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 07:33:28 +0000

TELIT-SA’s digital futures symposium explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping education

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 04/01/2025 - 09:33

The landscape of education is transforming at an unprecedented pace, driven by the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI). This year’s iTLT Digital Futures Symposium, themed “Accelerating education through AI: Collaborative innovation for the future”, brought together leading experts from around the world to explore the ways AI is reshaping teaching and learning.

Held on 17 and 18 March at the Tsebonokeng Hall on the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University (NWU), the symposium was organised by the research entity Technology Enhanced Learning and Innovative Teaching in South Africa (TELIT-SA), housed within the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences.

Prof Linda du Plessis, deputy vice-chancellor for teaching and learning at the NWU, officially opened the symposium. She emphasised the significance of AI in education and the need for collaborative innovation to drive meaningful change in teaching and learning practices. Her address set the stage for two days of thought-provoking discussions and knowledge-sharing.

AI tools can enhance learning and bridge gaps

The symposium started off with a compelling keynote by Prof Helen Crompton from Old Dominion University, USA. A globally recognised scholar and the executive director of the Research Institute for Digital Innovation in Learning, Prof Crompton emphasised the transformative potential of AI in education. She described how AI-driven tools can enhance learning experiences, personalise instruction and bridge educational gaps worldwide.

Drawing from her research, which spans collaborations with the United Nations, Oxford University and major tech firms such as Google and Apple, Prof Crompton provided a visionary roadmap for integrating AI into teaching practices.

Mario Paiano and Koen Suilen from Fontys University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands then presented insights on integrating generative AI into education. Mario, an expert in mixed reality and emerging technologies, showcased how AI can revolutionise classroom experiences. The two presenters demonstrated AI-powered teaching methods that leverage visual storytelling to create engaging learning experiences.

The NWU’s Prof Wian Erlank, a distinguished legal scholar specialising in AI law, cyber law and property law in cyberspace, elaborated on the legal and ethical challenges surrounding AI in education.

Prof Liandi van den Berg, the director of TELIT-SA and organiser of the Digital Futures Symposium, provided valuable insights into the current research being conducted at the NWU on AI integration and usage by NWU students and staff. She showcased the AI student courses that have been developed, as well as preliminary research findings that indicate students are learning to use AI effectively and responsibility. Likewise, she briefly explained the structure and content of the innovative AI lecturer course being developed by TELIT-SA and collaborating colleagues within the NWU.

AI in challenge-based learning

On day two of the symposium, Prof Koen de Pryck of Montclair State University, USA, took the stage to discuss challenge-based learning (where students work together on real-life challenges) and how AI can be incorporated into it. With expertise in e-learning and competency-based education, Prof de Pryck stressed the importance of balancing technological advancements with effective pedagogy, ensuring that challenge-based learning enhances learning experiences.

Passionate IT educator Mark Mettler of Fontys University spoke about the importance of equipping lecturers with the skills to leverage AI’s potential. His hands-on session focused on designing creative AI-driven learning experiences that prioritise innovation and collaboration.

Koen Suilen, a curriculum specialist and co-author of Leven en leren met AI (Living and learning with AI), explored AI’s role in curriculum development. He detailed strategies for responsibly implementing AI tools in education, ensuring they serve as catalysts for critical thinking rather than passive consumption. His research underscores the need for educators to be well-informed on AI to guide students toward responsible and effective usage.

The symposium concluded with Prof Verona Leendertz, deputy dean for research and innovation in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, delivering the closing remarks and vote of thanks.

She expressed her gratitude to the speakers, organisers, and delegates for their contributions and engagement throughout the event. A special word of appreciation went to Zama Chaacha, administrative and liaison officer of TELIT-SA for her massive contribution to organising and hosting the symposium together with various school and research administrative staff members who contributed. Prof Leendertz emphasised the importance of continued collaboration and research in AI and education, encouraging participants to apply the insights gained during the symposium to their teaching and learning environments.

The symposium concluded with Prof Verona Leendertz, deputy dean of research and innovation within the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, delivering the closing remarks and vote of thanks. She expressed her gratitude to the speakers, organisers, and delegates for their contributions and engagement throughout the event. A special word of appreciation went to Mrs Zama Chaacha, administrative and liaison officer of TELIT-SA for her massive contribution to organising and hosting the symposium together with various school and research administrative staff members who contributed. Prof Leendertz emphasised the importance of continued collaboration and research in AI and education, encouraging participants to apply the insights gained during the symposium to their teaching and learning environments.

Prof Linda du Plessis, deputy vice-chancellor for teaching and learning, addresses the audience.

Prof Helen Crompton from Old Dominion University, USA, interacts with the audience.

Prof Koen de Pryck of Montclair State University, USA, discusses challenge-based learning and how AI can be incorporated into it.

First-of-its-kind hunting study sheds light on hunters’ perspective

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 06:32:25 +0000

First-of-its-kind hunting study sheds light on hunters’ perspective

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 03/17/2025 - 08:32

• Hunters, especially international hunters, believe that they benefit local communities.

• International hunters spend up to four times more per visit than local hunters.

• International hunters perceive their impact to be greater than local hunters.

• The perspective of the local community is still missing.

The target is in his sights. In his mind, the buck’s meat is already processed. He pulls the trigger gently and the shot rings loudly, echoing across the South African bush. For the hunter, it was an exhilarating experience, one he shares with thousands of hunters every year. But what does hunting tourism really mean for the local communities that live alongside it?

A recent study by North-West University’s (NWU) Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society (TREES) research unit examines this controversial and often misunderstood industry from an unusual angle: through the eyes of the hunters themselves. This first-of-its-kind study was conducted by Prof Peet van der Merwe and Prof Elmarie Slabbert and published in the journal Development Southern Africa under the title The (ir)relevance of hunting tourism to rural communities: A hunter’s perspective.

The findings are provocative: hunters believe they are not just participating in a recreational activity, but actively shaping the economies, infrastructures, and social dynamics of South Africa’s rural communities. Whether or not local communities share this perception remains an open question.

Hunting tourism is big business in South Africa. Each year, thousands of international and local hunters descend on game farms and reserves, spending large sums of money on guides, lodging and permits. International hunters visiting South Africa’s shores are mainly from the United States and stay an average of ten nights per trip, compared to just three or four nights for their South African counterparts.

The difference in spending is stark, with foreign hunters investing up to four times more per visit. Their financial footprint extends beyond the confines of hunting lodges, spilling over into local communities in the form of employment, service contracts and donations. According to the study, nearly a third of international hunters donate meat from their kills to local communities, and a quarter contribute to schools and public projects.

But is this enough to call it a lifeline for rural South Africa?

The study’s authors argue that hunting tourism does not exist in a vacuum, but sits at the intersection of economic survival, conservation policy and cultural preservation. More than 30% of South Africa’s population lives in rural areas, where unemployment and poverty are widespread. Here, hunting tourism is a rare source of formal employment. Game farms and lodges create jobs for trackers, lodge staff, cooks, and artisans, providing opportunities where few alternatives exist.

Hunters see themselves as the driving force behind this development. Their presence, they argue, leads to improvements in infrastructure, better maintained roads and increased security in the areas where they hunt. They claim that crime decreases in hunting zones and that local pride in traditional cultural practices – such as sustainable wildlife management – flourishes under the influx of revenue. However, these claims remain largely untested from the perspective of the communities themselves.

For all its perceived benefits, hunting tourism is a polarising issue. Its critics argue that it prioritises short-term economic gain over long-term sustainability. Research outside South Africa, notably in Namibia and Botswana, has found that banning hunting tourism can lead to job losses and increased poaching as communities lose a legal means of profiting from wildlife. The South African study echoes these concerns: hunters overwhelmingly see themselves as allies in conservation, directly funding anti-poaching initiatives and wildlife management efforts. Yet conservationists remain divided over whether hunting and biodiversity conservation can truly coexist in the long run.

The NWU study categorised the impact of hunting tourism into three main factors: prosperity, empowerment and revitalisation. Economic benefits ranked highest, with hunters citing job creation, income generation and improved living standards as their top contributions. “Revitalisation”– the idea that hunting tourism physically transforms rural areas through development – came last. Even among the hunters surveyed, expectations of direct infrastructure improvements remained modest.

There was, however, a clear divide between foreign and domestic hunters. International visitors were far more likely to see themselves as key players in community development. They highlighted their financial contributions, their role in maintaining game farms and their support for local projects. South African hunters, while recognising the economic benefits, were less inclined to see their role as transformative. This may be because they are local hunters and do not fully recognise their contribution. It's similar to people living by the coast not appreciating the ocean as much as people who visit the coast on holiday.

There is a simple reason for this. One of the findings of the study is that, although hunters are viewed as a collective, international hunters and local hunters have different perspectives on some of the impacts. The study showed that international hunting tourists perceive their impacts to be more significant than their domestic counterparts. Their spending may also influence their perceptions, as they spend three to four times more per hunt than domestic hunters. However, there are fewer international hunting tourists than local hunting tourists in South Africa; the impact of local hunting tourists is more important because they are more numerous. Local hunters should therefore be made more aware of their impact on communities. In simple terms, local hunters hunt more, which dilutes their own perceptions of their impact on local communities. They think less about the impact of their contributions.

The study suggests that South Africa’s hunting tourism model offers a potential blueprint for balancing conservation and rural development, but it also underscores how little is known about the actual on-the-ground effects. The voices missing from the conversation are those of local communities themselves. Do they see the same economic and social benefits as hunters? Are they benefiting equitably, or are the gains concentrated among landowners and tourism operators?

The study calls for further research, particularly from the perspective of those most affected. Until then, the debate about the place of hunting tourism in rural South Africa remains unresolved. But one thing is clear: for the hunters who return year after year, their impact is measured not just in the animals they hunt, but in the communities they believe they are uplifting.

Side Hustle Master Class promotes entrepreneurship

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 06:58:13 +0000

Side Hustle Master Class promotes entrepreneurship BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 03/14/2025 - 08:58

By Gofaone Motsamai and Phenyo Mokgothu

The School of Management Sciences at the North-West University (NWU) hosted a Side Hustle Master Class at the Mahikeng Campus on 6 March 2025, bringing together students, lecturers and business professionals to explore strategies for developing and sustaining side businesses.

The event featured entrepreneur and author Willem Gous as the main speaker.

Prof Sonia Swanepoel, deputy vice-chancellor for community engagement and Mahikeng Campus operations, says such sessions are necessary to equip participants with practical skills to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape.

“We must move beyond the idea that a university degree leads only to employment. Students need to see entrepreneurship as a real option. Universities should not just produce graduates looking for jobs, but also individuals who can create economic opportunities for themselves and others.”

Willem encouraged participants to act despite uncertainty. “Fear stops many from starting,” he said. “Success begins with action, not hesitation. The key to a thriving side hustle is to embrace the journey, fuel ambition and turn passion into profit.”

To enhance the learning experience, participants received copies of Willem’s book as a practical guide to building sustainable side businesses. The School of Management Sciences also distributed bookmarks with key insights from the session.

“Entrepreneurship is not just about ideas; it is about execution. Now is the time to turn ideas into reality,” said Willem.

Entrepreneur and author Willem Gous led the Side Hustle Master Class.

International Symposium showcases a modern approach to academic discourse

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 09:28:55 +0000

International Symposium showcases a modern approach to academic discourse

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 03/11/2025 - 11:28

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management recently held a successful international symposium that brought together esteemed academics and industry professionals from around the globe.

Prof Marissa Brouwers, deputy director of the school, says the need for the symposium was motivated by the visit of three distinguished international academics, Prof Charissa Freese and Prof Irmgard Borghouts from Tilburg University in the Netherlands, and Prof Nick Prince from Wyoming University, USA.

The highlight of the event was the public lecture titled “Towards new securities on an inclusive labour market”, delivered by the three visiting academics, and facilitated by the school’s Prof Bouwer Jonker.

With an audience comprising 13 in-person attendees and eight joining online, the symposium showcased a modern approach to academic discourse, ensuring inclusivity for participants regardless of their geographical location.

A variety of significant discussions emerged throughout the symposium. Key topics included the intersection of social security with social policy and industrial relations, emphasising the importance of job transitions and the role of human resource management in fostering a sustainable and inclusive labour market. Participants engaged actively on issues such as social security’s functions in prevention and income protection, as well as the influence of human resource management on social legitimacy and educational practices.

One of the most notable outcomes of the symposium was the establishment of future research collaborations on the inclusive labour market model between Tilburg University and the NWU. Delegates expressed their appreciation for the insightful discussions, noting the relevance of the content, particularly within the South African context.

Prof Brouwers adds that the symposium aligns with the NWU’s strategic priority of internationalisation. “By hosting this event, the School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management harnessed global expertise and created a platform which will foster collaboration and enhance research. In addition, the International Symposium aligns with the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences’ values of devotion to excellence and scientific involvement.”

The discussions at the symposium also shed light on the future of human resource practices worldwide. Participants agreed on the importance of adopting a sustainable social security perspective in human resources, enhancing social legitimacy, and nurturing international research partnerships to expand the inclusive labour market model.

In light of the symposium’s success, Prof Brouwers says the school is set to host an International Week on 26-27 May 2025, followed by the First Biennial Global People Practice Conference on 28 and 29 May. She adds that these upcoming events reflect a commitment to the continued fostering of international collaboration and knowledge sharing.

For more information on the upcoming events visit: https://commerce.nwu.ac.za/gppc.

The School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management’s International Symposium was a great success.

GNU Budget should support growth-enhancing measures

MOIRA MULLER — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 06:53:26 +0000

GNU Budget should support growth-enhancing measures

by Willie du Plessis

MOIRA MULLER Wed, 03/05/2025 - 08:53

The fourth quarter (4Q) gross domestic product (GDP) growth figures that were released on 4 March are positive, but the mild recovery in the GDP in the 4Q of 2024 again confirms that the Government of National Unity (GNU) is right to have set much higher inclusive growth and stronger job creation as South Africa’s key overarching economic priorities.

In commenting on the growth figures, Prof Raymond Parsons, economist from the North-West University (NWU) Business School, says the latest data again emphasises that growth in South Africa has been too low for too long and that the situation must be remedied by maintaining the right economic environment for investment and growth.

“With the figures coming on the eve of the presentation of the postponed Budget, the modest 4Q 2024 GDP growth of 0,6% must therefore also inform the tough choices facing the GNU in finalising an amended Budget. The GNU’s Medium Term Development Strategy itself has set an overall growth target of 3%, which is about the minimum needed for South Africa to begin to make a big dent in its unemployment levels and help to alleviate poverty.”

Prof Parsons says the GNU Budget on 12 March must therefore show a policy mix that carefully calibrates fiscal consolidation, avoids a negative tax-and-spend fiscal cycle, and supports growth-enhancing measures.

“Accelerated growth-friendly structural reforms, especially in infrastructure development, need to be implemented urgently to lift South Africa’s medium-term growth to 3%, say by 2027.”

According to Prof Parsons, fixed-capital formation remains a weak link in South Africa’s slow and uneven economic recovery, as it is still only at about 15% of GDP instead of the NDP’s target of 25% to 30%.

“Household spending has done most of the heavy lifting in South Africa’s economic upturn so far. Higher sustainable growth also helps to create the economic buffers and resilience needed to mitigate any external shocks caused by elevated global uncertainty,” he concludes.

Academic weighs in on possibility of South Africa losing AGOA trade benefits

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 09:38:09 +0000

Academic weighs in on possibility of South Africa losing AGOA trade benefits

by Mafumane Tlhapi

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 02/27/2025 - 11:38

The trade relationship between South Africa and the United States (US) faces uncertainty as tensions between Pretoria and Washington grow. The potential loss of benefits under the African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA) raises concerns about economic consequences for key industries.

"If South Africa loses AGOA benefits, the impact will be felt in manufacturing and agriculture," said Mpho Lenoke, an academic at the North-West University (NWU). "Increased tariffs will make South African products less competitive in the US market, affecting export revenue."

The removal of AGOA benefits may lead to job losses, particularly in manufacturing and agriculture. Companies dependent on AGOA benefits could struggle to maintain sales. Supply chain disruptions may occur, particularly in the automobile sector, where production relies on tariff-free access.

"Investor confidence could decline as companies reconsider their strategies," said Lenoke. "The uncertainty surrounding trade relations with the US could also affect the rand, increasing import costs."

Without AGOA, South Africa may seek trade alternatives with the European Union, BRICS nations, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The shift may not fully compensate for lost trade with the US.

"Increased dependence on BRICS, particularly China, could worsen trade imbalances," said Lenoke. "The AfCFTA offers opportunities, but the benefits will take time to materialise."

Exploring new trade agreements may become necessary. A bilateral free trade deal with the US could be an option, though negotiations could be lengthy. Enhancing South Africa’s economic partnership agreement (EPA) with the EU may help mitigate losses. Expanding trade with Asia and the Middle East could create additional export opportunities.

"South Africa must implement policies to support industries affected by the potential loss of AGOA," said Lenoke. "Investment in manufacturing, infrastructure and innovation is essential. Government support, including tax incentives and grants, will help businesses adjust to new trade conditions."

As uncertainty continues, industries reliant on AGOA benefits await clarity on future trade policies. The decisions made in the coming months may shape South Africa’s economic landscape for years to come.

Prof David Luke calls for stronger African trade ties

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 10:20:05 +0000

Prof David Luke calls for stronger African trade ties

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 02/25/2025 - 12:20

Prof David Luke, professor of Practice and strategic director of the Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa, gave a thought-provoking public lecture hosted by the TRADE research focus area at the North-West University (NWU).

In his lecture Prof Luke emphasised the importance of regional trade and economic integration to Africa’s development. He stressed the necessity for African countries to trade more with one another rather than relying largely on external markets by drawing on lessons from a book he had edited, How Africa Trades.

Prof Luke began his lecture by providing an overview of the current status of trade in Africa. He pointed out that trade in Africa is still far less than that with outside partners like China and the European Union (EU). He cited research from the book to demonstrate that although African nations export minerals and fossil fuels to the rest of the world, most of the trade between African countries consists of manufactured goods and food products.

“Africa accounts for only about 2,3% of global trade, which is far below its potential. What we need is to increase trade among ourselves and move away from over-reliance on commodity exports,” said Prof Luke.

Prof Luke went on to discuss how external trade policies affect Africa, stressing that deals with big economies are often to the disadvantage of African countries. He cited the various trade agreements the EU had with African nations, which disrupt the continent’s attempt at economic integration, creating a disadvantageous environment.

“The fragmentation of trade agreements means that Africa is not speaking with one voice. This makes it difficult to negotiate favourable terms in the global trade system,” Prof Luke stated.

One of the key issues raised was the historical dependence of Africa on external markets, such as the EU and China, for exports and imports. According to Prof Luke, China has surpassed individual European countries as Africa’s top trading partner, but the EU as a whole continues to be the continent’s top commercial destination. In addition, he also explained that although Africa imports more goods from these regions, intra-African trade remains minimal in comparison.

Prof Luke championed the African Continent Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a revolutionary approach to increasing intercontinental trade. He argued that the AfCFTA could greatly reduce trade barriers, integrate regulations and establish a single market if it were properly implemented.

“The AfCFTA is our best opportunity to integrate our economies and strengthen regional value chains,” he stated. “But for this to work, we need commitment from governments and a strong focus on reducing trade barriers, customs inefficiencies and infrastructure challenges.”

A call to action

Prof Luke made a call to action at the end of his talk, urging African policy makers and business leaders to grant first priority to trade policies that support regional integration.

“If we do not take bold steps now, Africa will continue to lag behind in global trade. It is in the world’s interest, and certainly in Africa’s interest, to create a new trade deal that prioritises our own growth.”

AICPA & CIMA’s Exclusive Academic Dinner: Accelerating leadership in finance education

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 10:03:02 +0000

AICPA & CIMA’s Exclusive Academic Dinner: Accelerating leadership in finance education

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 02/25/2025 - 12:03

On 18 February 2025, a distinguished group of academics gathered at the Fireroom, Montecasino, for the exclusive AICPA & CIMA event, Accelerate & Lead: Dinner with Academics. Hosted by Simon Bittlestone, FCMA, CGMA, President of CIMA and Chairman of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, the evening provided an invaluable platform for thought-provoking discussions on the evolving landscape of financial education and the role of academic institutions in shaping future financial leaders.

The event was attended by Prof Babs Surujlal (Executive Dean of the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences), Prof Heleen Janse van Vuuren (Director of the School of Accounting Sciences), Prof Sanlie Middelberg (CIMA Champion in the School of Accounting Sciences), and Prof Jaco Fouché (Programme Leader for Management Accountancy). Their presence underlined the importance of collaboration between the NWU, industry and the CIMA in advancing management accounting education.

Beyond the formal discussions, the dinner fostered a collaborative and engaging atmosphere, allowing academics to exchange ideas, expand their professional networks, and explore potential partnerships. The event reaffirmed CIMA’s commitment to strengthening the links between academic institutions and the global finance profession, ensuring that finance education remains innovative, industry-aligned and future-focused.

NWU’s Management Accountancy programme, one of the first in South Africa to be accredited by CIMA, has also once again achieved outstanding results in the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) Management Case Study exams. In 2024, NWU students achieved an impressive pass rate of 88% – well above the global average of 65%. This follows a consistent track record of excellence with 83% in 2023 (global average 65%), 87% in 2022 (global average 71%) and 85% in 2021 (global average 73%).

The political economy of South Africa’s budget impacts you

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 14:19:18 +0000

The political economy of South Africa’s budget impacts you BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 02/21/2025 - 16:19

By Michelle Meixieira Groenewald

Welcome to a budget we need to pass under the Government of National Unity. South Africa’s budget speech was scheduled to take place on the 19th of February, and has now been postponed to the 12^th of March. The Public Finance Management Act requires that the annual budget is tabled before the start of the financial year, but in exceptional circumstances, this can happen as soon as possible after the start of the financial year.

This postponement has certainly created exceptional circumstances. The major point of contention was a proposed VAT hike from 15% to 17%. This opposition ranged from certain ministers within the ANC, to the Democratic Alliance, to trade unions and civil society organisations.

There is widespread consensus that this would disproportionately impact the poor and is frequently considered a regressive tax for lower income households as well. Using Treasury’s own VAT data, Daily Maverick estimated that a 2 percentage point increase would see the lowest income decile pay an estimated R213 more annually, which is an enormous amount relative to their total income and expenditure.

Discussions around why Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana attempted to push ahead with such a controversial policy, would require more column inches than this article allows for. Questions also remain around the extent of consultation, with the minister confirming that during a Cabinet meeting on 5 February, it was highlighted that a VAT increase was on the table. He did state that the exact amount was not yet made explicit. DA, IFP and Rise Mzansi insiders claimed that there were only notified of the 2 percentage point increase on the morning of the budget speech.

What is essential is that partners in the GNU cannot simply criticise. There needs to be tangible alternatives presented that are able to raise R58 billion in additional revenue in 2025/2026 alone. These alternatives must be considered in relation to the decisions that were to be announced on 19 February. Reiterating once again, the need for an increase in economic growth (in itself an incredibly difficult process as decades of economic growth research has shown us) and curbing corruption, are longer term plans. There are various alternatives proposals being proposed by organisations that can, and should, be debated.

Key to recognize is that there are many debates around these issues, which require nuanced analysis and thoughtful action, in the increasingly complex political economy of South Africa. South Africans, however, do need to become more actively involved in the budget process. What many may not be aware of, is that as the general public, we can all make submissions for consideration for the budget through the Budget Tips initiative launched back in 1999 already.

What we can hope for is that this postponement will create greater awareness and encourage more South Africans to engage more deeply on policies that affect us all. The rest is up to GNU.

Student a top 10 finalist in Nedbank & Old Mutual Budget Speech Competition

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 09:29:22 +0000

Student a top 10 finalist in Nedbank & Old Mutual Budget Speech Competition

by Angeline Marokoane

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 02/19/2025 - 11:29

Sizwe Mazibuko, a second-year BSc Quantitative Risk Management student at the North-West University (NWU), has been named a top 10 finalist in the prestigious 53rd Nedbank & Old Mutual Budget Speech Competition.

This competition serves as a platform for the brightest economic minds in South Africa to engage with critical financial issues, fostering solutions that contribute to the nation’s economic growth.

The competition is open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing economics-related studies at recognised South African institutions. It challenges participants to explore thought-provoking questions with real-world relevance, pushing them to apply their academic knowledge to pressing economic challenges.

As an undergraduate finalist, Sizwe tackled the question: “Discuss the impact of public debt on government finances in developing economies, focusing on South Africa”.

This topic required participants to analyse the complexities of public debt and its implications for economic stability, fiscal policy, and long-term growth in developing nations, particularly South Africa. Given the country’s ongoing economic challenges, Sizwe’s insights into sustainable debt management and financial policy would have been crucial in shaping discussions at the event.

The finals are taking place from 17 to 20 February 2025, bringing together some of the country’s most promising economic scholars.

Sizwe’s achievement in reaching the final round is a testament to his analytical abilities, dedication, and passion for economic problem-solving. His success highlights the importance of nurturing young economic thinkers who will play a key role in shaping South Africa’s financial future.

As the nation grapples with economic uncertainties, students like Sizwe represent a new generation poised to contribute innovative solutions to national and global economic challenges.