Empowering Future Leaders at UJ FEBE Postgraduate Induction Day

Christine Mutanda, Stakeholder Relations Manager at the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS), had the privilege of representing ASAQS at the 2025 Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE) Postgraduate Students Induction and Welcome Day at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) on 15 March 2025.

This annual event provides an essential platform to engage with over 400 postgraduate students, equipping them with valuable insights for academic success and professional growth. Christine used the opportunity to highlight the critical role of quantity surveyors in the built environment, emphasising their contribution to the sector’s efficiency and sustainability.

During the session, she outlined the pathway from graduation and candidacy to professional registration. Students were introduced to the range of services offered by ASAQS, particularly the Continuous Professional Development (CPD) programme. CPD plays a vital role in career progression by offering subject-specific learning opportunities that keep professionals upskilled and in good standing with the South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession (SACQSP), which is essential for maintaining professional registration.

Christine also highlighted the diverse career opportunities available to quantity surveyors, both within the built environment and in related industries. A notable example of innovation in the field is the work of Wandile Sihiya, a quantity surveying student and student ambassador of the Chartered Institute of Builders (CIOB). His passion for digital transformation in the construction industry is reflected in his use of drone technology for object detection, which enables the development of automated tools for predicting hairline cracks and counting bricks. He also leads Internet of Things (IoT) skills development programmes and is a prominent international guest speaker and MC at industry events and universities. His expertise illustrates how technology-driven solutions are shaping the future of the built environment. His decision to further his studies at UJ aligns with the university’s reputation for driving research and innovation.

Another significant connection made at the event was with Ntando Teddy Khuzwayo from CIOB. Christine and Ntando share a commitment to empowering young professionals, which could lead to future collaboration in initiatives that support emerging talent in the industry.

ASAQS remains dedicated to supporting students and young professionals in their journey towards becoming fully registered quantity surveyors. Events like the UJ FEBE Postgraduate Induction Day provide an excellent opportunity to engage with future leaders, ensuring they are aware of the resources available to them as they navigate their careers in the built environment sector.

A sincere thank you to Prof. Lerato Millicent Aghimien, PhD, Head of the Department of Construction Management and Quantity Surveying at the University of Johannesburg, for extending an invitation to The Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) to participate in this remarkable event. Your dedication to bridging the gap between academia and industry is truly inspiring!

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Ntando Teddy Khuzwayo, Christine Mutanda, Wandile Sihiya