The event formed part of the Proudly SA Campaign’s natio-nal outreach programme. It was aimed at introducing key sectors and non-members to the Campaign and its value-adding networks aimed at promoting local economic development and sustainable business practices.
NMMU George, a Proudly SA member company, joined hands with the Campaign to host key stakeholders from George and environs, including representatives of the George Business Chamber, SEDA, George Municipality, South Cape College and NMMU.
Reuben Kadalie, COO of the National Cleaner Production Centre, South Africa, gave a captivating talk on the NCPC-SA’s cleaner production assessment programme and its focus on promoting green productivity. He highlighted the NCPC’s internship programme whereby students/learners are placed in companies with a mentor, as part of a managed process to promote green productivity techniques. He emphasised the need to strengthen the link between growing skills, competence and productivity. He emphasised that "Sustainable development and economic development are linked to education and competitiveness."
NMMU George Campus Principal, Prof Christo Fabricius, gave an overview of the education landscape and presented a compelling argument for the positioning of the Southern Cape, and George in particular, as a future ‘hub’ of quality education in South Africa. He referred to the excellent schools and institutions of higher education such as NMMU, which is the biggest university in the Southern and Eastern Cape, as well as strong provincial, municipal and business commitment to education-driven development.
NMMU George Student Council members (from left) Monwabisi Bahlekazi, Mulisha Hendry and Chairperson Sidima Mtila (right) enthusiastically contributed to the forum discussions. They are pictured with keynote speaker, Reuben Kadalie (NCPS-SA) and Dalene du Preez of the Proudly SA Campaign.
