ASAQS Engages Future Built Environment Professionals at UP EBIT Open Day

The Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) had the privilege of participating in the University of Pretoria’s (UP) Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology (EBIT) Open Day on Saturday, 8 March 2025. Representing ASAQS at the event, Christine Mutanda, Stakeholder Relations Manager, engaged with Grade 12 learners to introduce them to the built environment professions, with a particular focus on Quantity Surveying (QS) as a career.

Raising Awareness About Quantity Surveying

Unlike more widely recognised fields such as architecture, real estate, and engineering, Quantity Surveying remains relatively less known among high school students. A common challenge is the misconception that QS is similar to land surveying, which often leads to a lack of interest in pursuing it as a career.

Christine Mutanda’s presentation highlighted the critical role Quantity Surveyors play in construction projects, from cost management and financial planning to contract administration and risk assessment. Her insights helped learners understand that QS is an essential profession that ensures infrastructure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to specification.

Exciting Career Prospects in Quantity Surveying

Learners showed particular interest in the diverse career opportunities that a Quantity Surveying Honours degree provides. Christine outlined the numerous paths available, including project management, property investment, construction law, auditing, and sustainability consulting, as well as international work opportunities for qualified Quantity Surveyors.

The global recognition of South African Quantity Surveyors was also highlighted, supported by ASAQS’s Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) and reciprocity agreements with international QS bodies. These agreements provide South African QS professionals with greater mobility and access to career opportunities abroad.

Encouraging Future Participation

To further increase awareness and participation in the field, the ASAQS advocates for school tours and outreach programs that expose learners to real-world QS applications. By engaging students early, we can help dispel misconceptions and encourage more young minds to consider Quantity Surveying as a rewarding and globally relevant profession.

ASAQS looks forward to continued collaboration with universities, schools, and industry stakeholders to inspire and develop the next generation of Quantity Surveyors.

For more information about ASAQS and the Quantity Surveying profession, visit https://www.asaqs.co.za/page/what-is-a-quantity-surveyor

The University of Pretoria's Department of Construction Economics lecturers include Rouzkja Rogers and Elzane van Eck. Additionally, Christine Mutanda serves as the Stakeholder Relations Manager at ASAQS.