The Daily Discourse

Universities are often criticized for not keeping up with developments in the workplace which can help them align their qualifications with industry. In light of this, the University of Johannesburg’s Faculty of Engineering and Build Environment (FEBE) will roll out its approved three year BEngTech and Built Environment Bachelors qualifications next year in order to further align the University’s Conceive-Design-Implement-Operate approach. What exactly is this approach and how will it help bridge the gap between higher education and the workplace?

Ever wondered how export credit and investment insurance works? The Export Credit Insurance Corporation of South Africa is a company that provides insurance solutions to local exporters and puts then in a favourable light to the international market. How exactly does this work and what sort of risks do they cover?

International experts gathered in Cape Town on Friday to discuss curbing industry marketing of harmful products to young people. Some of the arguments that were made were on how governments should deal with companies that manufacture these products. But then how much more can be done to punish the companies involved and is it fair to point the finger at these companies?

Women in Electricity under the Association of Municipal Electrical Utilities this week held their first conference under the theme: Women powering smart cities. This they say echoes the milestone event of 1956 where women stood together to achieve a common goal. What lesson are they taking from this theme?

Amaphisi farmers' As government pushes for young people to enter the farming industry as a way to deal with the unemployment issue, we talk to an organization that is 100% black owned about their success story. The Amaphisi Farmers was founded in 1995 and have made their mark in the food and agricultural industry on many countries on the African continent. What is their formula to success and how do they encourage and teach sustainability in such a very tricky industry?

Dr Tracey Ledger discusses the right to food and why it represents the single biggest threat to progression towards an equitable society and the eradication of poverty, if it remains ignored.

The transport sector is one of those perceived to be male dominated. But in recent years more and more women are seen in the driving seat. Whether it be trucking, shipping, road or logistics, women are making in-roads. How has the industry transformed over the years and what is it that’s making it attractive to women and what sort of challenges are they facing?

Braimoh Bello explains why he thinks Africa’s problems lie with the leadership. He argues that if every politician avoids corruption and show contentment for the reward of their sweat, we would build a better continent.

Often we hear about the devastating effects drugs have in communities, but hardly hear about the impact it has in the workplace. Companies on the other hand don’t really know how to apply the country’s laws in dealing with the scourge. Just how prevalent is drug addiction in the workplace and how can employers go about testing their employees without stepping on their rights?

Many South African organisations and businesses are coming up with different projects to try and help in lifting up the country’s education. This time we hear about an initiative called e-maths projects which its founder says seeks to improve grades 11-12 mathematics results in rural and township's schools using cutting -edge technology in a mobile classroom. Just how different is it from what’s already out there and how successful is it so far?