How Quantity Surveyors can help manage costs as global tariffs impact SA construction projects2/6/2025  The saying "When America sneezes, the world catches a cold” is relevant once again. In 2025, it illustrates how the sweeping US tariffs are being felt across the globe, even affecting the construction industry at the southern tip of Africa. “Although these are taxes on imports into the US, they have a ripple effect on local building costs as Chinese and other suppliers redirect their materials to markets without tariffs and disrupt our supply chains,” says Nolubabalo Tsolo, Executive Director of the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS).
Pushing up construction costs Local buyers in South Africa are consequently facing material shortages, steep price increases, and longer lead times for essentials such as steel, aluminium, solar panels, and electrical components, says Tsolo. She explains that contractors are struggling to manage the rising costs and add risk premiums to tenders. This means that projects – from roads and bridges to schools and affordable housing – risk exceeding their budgets. In addition, currency fluctuations are making dollar-priced imports even more expensive. All this puts strain on both public and private projects, with affordability and delivery timelines being reassessed. Behind the scenes “Amidst this uncertainty, quantity surveyors (QS) play a crucial role in stabilising the construction sector and keeping costs under control,” says Tsolo. “We’re the only profession specialising in the finances of the construction industry – also referred to as ‘building accountants’ (Bou-rekenaare) in Afrikaans.” The QS’s initial estimate of the project cost – including labour, material, time, and profit – is based on information from the architects, engineers and other industry specialists. “We look at the current market prices in construction, combined with historical data as well as statistical forecasts and construction and material price indices,” says Tsolo. Ideally, the estimate also includes reserves for contingencies and escalations to cover unforeseen risks and costs during the project. However, Treasury currently doesn’t accept contingencies (typically 5% to 10% of project value) in the public sector, and QS have to formally request additional funds for unexpected costs. It’s meant to boost accountability, says Tsolo, but adds onerous of bureaucracy, which delay construction and drive costs even higher. How to build resilience The ASAQS suggests the following responses to the tariff-related challenges on SA’s construction sector:
“By building resilience, we intend to lessen global economic shocks on the local construction sector,” says Tsolo. “Quantity surveyors are central to this, ensuring that construction projects remain feasible, efficient, and financially sound, even in uncertain times.” It shows that while South Africa can’t stop America from sneezing, we can protect ourselves from catching a full-blown cold. ENDS MEDIA CONTACT: Stephné du Toit, [email protected], 084 587 9933, www.atthatpoint.co.za For more information on ASAQS please visit: Website: www.asaqs.co.za LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/asaqs Twitter: @the_ASAQS Facebook: facebook.com/asaqsza
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 Are we getting value for money from our investment? In other words, how do we ensure that our infrastructure is delivered on time, on budget and to specification? These are key questions raised in a leaked copy of the delayed Budget Speech.
“The Quantity Surveying profession exists explicitly to give these assurances, but quantity surveyors must be optimally employed and utilised to reap their full benefits,” says Nolubabalo Tsolo, Executive Director at the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS). So, if the solution is already available, why will the Minister mention these concerns when he finally delivers the budget on 12 March? Understaffed and underutilised Tsolo says that, in her experience working on public infrastructure projects, quantity surveyors are generally underutilised because stakeholders do not fully understand the importance and value of their contributions. As a result, Quantity Surveying teams may be understaffed and therefore unable to give the best assurance of the value-for-money proposition they are meant to support. “Unfortunately, when a project falls short on quantity surveying, it falls short in every other aspect as well,” says Tsolo. An agent of value Quantity surveyors provide a range of critical services, including financial and risk management. They also ensure that factors like the cost impact of timings and delays, as well as deviations from specifications, are accounted for. In addition, Quantity Surveyors produce valuations for payments based on the reconciliation of the quality of work delivered against the specified work expected, highlighting any shortcomings as confirmed with the design team. “This gives project stakeholders vital evidence to pursue the right preventive and corrective strategies,” says Tsolo. In any development, each procuring party should typically employ its own quantity surveying function, including developers, banks, and contractors. This structure provides a cross-checking mechanism that offers security to the stakeholders and incentivises them to deal honestly. “Quantity surveyors also supply an implicit auditing function,” says Tsolo. For example, a bank may release or withhold further funds only after its QS, in collaboration with the project architects, engineers, and project managers have inspected the executed works. A qualified professional Quantity surveyors are no less important than lawyers, doctors, accountants, engineers or any other professional, it is professionalised by law. In the case of QSs, they must register with the South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession (SACQSP) after passing its Assessment of Professional Competence, in terms of the Quantity Surveying Profession Act 49 of 2000. In addition, QSs are compelled to pursue monitored continuous professional development (CPD) throughout their career to stay abreast of the latest developments in the field. Cost versus benefits Trying to save money by limiting a project’s complement of quantity surveyors is short-sighted. That is not to say the government should employ an army of them for each development. However, ample numbers will provide the very outcome it is hoping to achieve - infrastructure that is delivered on time, on budget and to specification. Used to the greatest effect, quantity surveying provides a critical path to sustainable infrastructure development and economic growth. “So, we implore the government to give due consideration to the profession and ensure their projects are staffed with sufficient, competent Quantity Surveyors, limiting fruitless and wasteful expenditure.” says Tsolo. ENDS MEDIA CONTACT: Stephné du Toit, [email protected], 084 587 9933, www.atthatpoint.co.za For more information on ASAQS please visit: Website: www.asaqs.co.za LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/asaqs X: @the_ASAQS Facebook: facebook.com/asaqsza  The Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) says it is excited about the bold infrastructure and housing initiatives announced by President Ramaphosa during his 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA).
The body also wants to highlight the vital role Quantity Surveyors will play in making these projects successful. “Our QSs have the skills and knowledge to manage and deliver these initiatives effectively, thanks to their experience in cost management, value optimisation, risk mitigation, sustainability and compliance,” says Nolubabalo Tsolo, Executive Director of ASAQS. In addition, Quantity Surveyors provide an inherent auditing function that ensures project expenses, output quality and material usage remain within accepted specifications. Major infrastructure investments The President said the country had to lift its economic growth above three percent. To achieve this, the government was undertaking massive investments in new infrastructure, as well as maintaining existing assets. It is seeking R100 billion in infrastructure investment through local and private entities, and will spend more than R940 billion in infrastructure over the next three years. R375 billion of this will go towards state owned enterprises, and will be used to upgrade roads and bridges, build dams and waterways, and modernise ports and airports. President Ramaphosa also said that affordable housing development would expand to city centres, offering greater access to work and business opportunities. “These initiatives, which include important investments in public infrastructure, affordable housing and urban renewal, are set to significantly boost socio-economic development and open many new opportunities in the construction and property sectors,” says Tsolo. Undeniable contributions Tsolo says Quantity Surveyors play a crucial role in the construction industry through their professional contributions. They excel in cost management, keeping project expenses on track and ensuring large-scale infrastructure and housing developments are completed within budget. By providing precise cost estimates and sound financial advice, Quantity Surveyors maximise the value derived from public funds, fostering responsible spending. Their knowledge of risk management enables them to recognise possible financial threats and formulate plans to reduce them, maintaining project stability, even in the face of difficulties. Additionally, Quantity Surveyors advocate for sustainable construction practices by recommending cost-effective and environmentally friendly materials and methods, aligning with governmental goals for urban renewal and affordable housing. They also ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, minimising the risk of delays and costly mistakes by ensuring that construction meets necessary standards. Protecting big investments With Quantity Surveyors’ many skills, they provide a high level of protection against project mismanagement, fraud and corruption. They offer value engineering to maximise the value-for-money proposition of projects. And they can act as mediators or advisors to resolve disputes. This underscores the importance of competent Quantity Surveyors in managing and optimising these significant investments effectively. As such, ASAQS is committed to supporting the government's vision for a prosperous and sustainable South Africa. “We believe that the involvement of skilled Quantity Surveyors will be instrumental in achieving the goals set out in the SONA 2025, and we look forward to collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of these transformative projects,” says Tsolo. ENDS MEDIA CONTACT: Stephné du Toit, [email protected], 084 587 9933, www.atthatpoint.co.za For more information on ASAQS please visit: Website: www.asaqs.co.za LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/asaqs X: @the_ASAQS Facebook: facebook.com/asaqsza  The construction mafia has become so entrenched in South Africa that the risk of organised crime is increasingly factored into project contracts – suggesting that these criminal activities are a legitimate part of doing business. To restore the rule of law and revitalise the construction industry, the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) is calling for collaborative action between built environment professional associations and SAPS to combat these criminal extortion rings.
‘Although the South African government and various industry stakeholders are working to address the issue, the challenges remain and have now reached the point where many legitimate businesses are forced to cut jobs or scale back operations due to the financial pressures from extortion and intimidation,’ says Mosha Senyolo, President of ASAQS. ‘This contributes to higher unemployment, particularly in locations where construction and infrastructure development is key. Workers and businesses are threatened, which breaks down community trust and safety. Construction mafias are creating a climate of fear, and its ripple effect is giving rise to more opportunistic criminal behaviour.’ Ethical and existential dilemma It’s estimated that the construction mafia has cost South Africa’s economy approximately R68 billion over the past decade. The impact on quantity surveyors is significant, as they have to account for potential extortion payments and increased security measures within their budgets. ‘Additionally, intimidation and disruptions lead to project delays, making it challenging not only for the contractors, but also for the project quantity surveyor to manage the complexities while trying to maintain their professional reputation,’ says Senyolo. The increased call by contractors to incorporate the risks associated with organised crime into project contracts further complicates risk management strategies and drives up costs. She adds, ‘Moreover, dealing with clients or contractors who may be coerced, causes an ethical dilemma, putting our members in a difficult position as they strive to uphold the integrity that is at the core of our profession.’ Consequently, the relationships between quantity surveyors, contractors and clients suffer, fuelled by anxiety over project security that often erodes communication and trust. Sharing insights and encouraging whistleblowing To effectively root out construction mafias, ASAQS calls for the establishment of a collaborative platform between built environment professional associations and SAPS. Since many members are directly impacted and face an existential risk, ASAQS is ideally positioned to create a safe space for industry professionals to submit tipoffs and blow the whistle on corruption. ‘Such a collaborative platform would enable us to share insights and potential approaches to combatting the construction mafia together with SAPS, based on the lived realities of our members on the ground,’ says Senyolo. Furthermore, ASAQS leadership is considering to engage directly with the special unit established by SAPS. These measures – as well as regular meetings and information-sharing platforms with local communities during the planning phase of projects – are expected to encourage the reporting of suspicious activities without fear of retribution. By working more closely and establishing a platform to share insights, industry bodies and SAPS have the power to combine their forces in the fight against the construction mafia. ENDS MEDIA CONTACT: Stephné du Toit, [email protected], 084 587 9933, www.atthatpoint.co.za For more information on ASAQS please visit: Website: www.asaqs.co.za LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/asaqs Twitter: @the_ASAQS Facebook: facebook.com/asaqsza  The Importance and Value of Benchmarking in Enhancing Public Infrastructure Planning, Procurement, Delivery and Accountability. This was the topic of a recent webinar hosted by the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) in collaboration with the Africa Association of Quantity Surveyors (AAQS).
“We realise it’s a timely subject for Africa as a whole and took the initiative of bringing key thinkers together to share their insights,” said Mosha Senyolo, President of ASAQS. ASAQS was proud to welcome delegates from across the African continent to the hybrid conference. What is benchmarking? Benchmarking is the practice of comparing one’s business processes and performance metrics to those of the best performers in that industry. Adopting their practices and strategies can augment a company’s own output and efficiency. At scale, benchmarking promises to elevate performance across an industry, improving the value enjoyed by its consumers. However, this demands significant local and global cooperative efforts to collect, format and dispense meaningful data against agreed upon international standards and taxonomies. Benchmarking for Quantity Surveying Senyolo said that the webinar focused on how benchmarking could:
Professional fees Guest speaker Simon Berry, presented on the need for benchmarking professional fees, which often varied considerably for similar projects. The traditional method of fee calculation in South Africa, he said, was flawed and was abandoned overseas about 30 years ago. However, digital benchmarking provides the ability to easily establish the scope of services, calculate reasonable fees agreeable to all parties, benchmark efforts for similar jobs, and manage scope change. Industry performance ASAQS Executive Director Karl Tusler discussed the Association’s technological capabilities and its desire to employ the International Cost Management Standards (ICMS) for benchmarking. According to the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), “ICMS are principles-based international standards that set out how to report, group and classify construction project costs in a structured and logical form.” Trusler noted that ASAQS’ software partners could readily integrate the ICMS with its own standards in their products, namely, ASAQS Guide to Elemental Estimating, ASAQS Model Bill of Quantities, and ASAQS Standard System of Measuring Building Work. This would afford quantity surveyors both local and global benchmarks as well as the tools to exploit them. In addition, Dr Anil Sawhney of RICS, and chair of the ICMS’ Standards Setting Committee, presented an overview of the ICMS standard, explaining its structure as a high-level taxonomy for life cycle costs and carbon emissions associated with built assets. Panel discussion The event closed with a panel discussion between ASAQS’ distinguished guests, including Segun Ajanlekoko from Nigeria, David Gaitho from Kenya, Chanda Katotobwe from Zambia, Roy Mnisi from South Africa, and Sithembiso Vhandezi from the South African Auditor General’s office. The panel was facilitated by the ASAQS’ Immediate Past President, Newton Baloyi. They agreed that the private sector would definitely benefit from a comprehensive benchmarking ecosystem. However, the cost of such a system should be funded by the government, which stands to make the greatest gains from its implementation. ENDS MEDIA CONTACT: Stephné du Toit, [email protected], 084 587 9933, www.atthatpoint.co.za For more information on ASAQS please visit: Website: www.asaqs.co.za LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/asaqs X: @the_ASAQS Facebook: facebook.com/asaqsza  ASAQS' newly elected president, Mosha Senyolo, may describe her appointment as “a surprise” - but for those around her, it was nothing but expected.
After all, Senyolo has been shattering glass ceilings for years - and the fact that she is the first black woman to be chosen as president of ASAQS is one of many firsts she has achieved in her career. “Becoming the first black woman president of such a globally respected organisation was never something I aimed for personally,” Senyolo notes. “However, I am tremendously honoured and filled with gratitude. This achievement stands as a testament to the dedication, unwavering commitment, and deep passion I have for our profession.” A new perspective on an established legacy In 2021, she was appointed as junior vice president at ASAQS, and says that role provided her with invaluable insights and preparation for the presidency. “I had the opportunity to closely observe the responsibilities of senior leadership within our organisation. I also gained a deep understanding of the ASAQS operations, challenges, and strategic direction.” She cites collaborating closely with her predecessors - Keith Skinner and Newton Baloyi - as instrumental to her effective leadership and decision-making skills. “Serving as junior vice president taught me the importance of humility, listening to diverse perspectives, and making decisions that prioritise the collective good of our members and the built environment as a whole.” As president, she hopes to build on the ASAQS legacy while also making some necessary changes. “With my tenure, I aim to prioritise turning innovative ideas into tangible, measurable achievements which will be built on the strong foundation laid by past presidents,” she explains. “I intend to focus on enhancing member engagement and satisfaction through tailored programs and communication strategies.” She would also like to see opportunities to expand the association's influence both locally and internationally, ensuring the ASAQS remains at the forefront of industry standards and advocacy. “Ultimately, my goal is to foster a culture of continuous improvement, where every initiative contributes to our collective success and the advancement of our profession.” Patriotism at the heart of her dedication to QS Senyolo says though the challenges are not to be taken lightly, she is excited about the future of Quantity Surveying in South Africa. “Beyond traditional cost estimation and management roles, Quantity Surveyors are increasingly recognised for our ability to provide strategic insights and mitigate risks on behalf of clients, thereby maximising returns on investment for diverse stakeholders.” She acknowledges that it takes a lot of time and commitment to serve on the ASAQS board, and says the simple reason for her dedication is “patriotism” - a value which drives her in her personal and professional life. “My first inspiration was my father, Mr. Thabo Senyolo, who has been noted by the School of Construction, Economics and Management at Wits University to be the first black-qualified Quantity Surveyor. Patriotism, in my lived experience, embodies a belief in something greater than oneself. I draw inspiration from fellow South Africans who zealously represent both their professions and our nation. “South Africa has achieved much to be proud of—our advancements and global influence are testament to this. The ASAQS epitomises these enduring values, navigating challenges with resilience. It is our collective duty to uphold this legacy, placing the common good above individual interests.” ENDS MEDIA CONTACT: Stephné du Toit, [email protected], 084 587 9933, www.atthatpoint.co.za For more information on ASAQS please visit: Website: www.asaqs.co.za LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/asaqs X: @the_ASAQS Facebook: facebook.com/asaqsza  Ofentse Pitse views barriers not as hurdles, but as challenges. That is probably one of the reasons she keeps breaking them.
As the first black South African woman to conduct and own an all-black orchestra, the 31-year-old has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring artists from diverse backgrounds. Ofentse is however not only a remarkable and influential figure in the world of music - she’s also a Candidate Architect, infusing her musical interpretations with the precision and creativity of her background in the built environment. “As a teenager, I used to love watching Top Billing on TV,” she recalls, referring to the popular South African lifestyle television programme that aired on the national broadcaster. “They would always feature a magnificent house, and the presenter would do a walkabout with the architect of the residence. I started dreaming of designing homes myself.” Harmonizing Arts: The Connection Between Music and Architecture She entered the Wits University Architecture Department in 2012 to pursue her degree, which she then followed with an honours program and a master's - of which she recently submitted her thesis. All of this was accomplished while also actively pursuing a musical career. Earlier this year, Netflix released a music video of an instrumental version of one of the songs used in the series Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story. The song “If I Ain't Got You” is performed by the superstar Alicia Keys in the video with a 74-piece worldwide orchestra made up solely of women of colour. The conductor of this ensemble is none other than Ofentse. She acknowledges that balancing music and architecture is difficult. “Music demands of you to analyze scores; you need a deep understanding of its intricate dynamics. It's quite time-consuming,” she explains. “And then the architecture requires research, to be well versed with the context and the concepts.” Because Ofentse has to spend hours in the studio or at rehearsals for her music, it would be challenging to work a "nine to five" job in architecture. “Fortunately, I currently have the option of working as a freelance architect, which is fantastic since it keeps the dream alive,” she says, adding that she also firmly believes the two disciplines complement each other. “The architecture background enables me to express myself musically. The very same principles that I was taught in architecture, are the same ones used in music - principles such as technique, balance, structure, harmony,” she explains. “When I analyze a musical score, I always think about those principles that I learned in architecture. "When I'm rehearsing, I picture the musical piece the same way I would design a building. I decide what to view as the ‘habitable’ part of the score. Then I look at what the ‘private areas’ are, then the public areas. Where I would pause in the score, and where I’d move.” She believes the reason why she is physically very dynamic as a conductor is because she puts her architecture training into it. “And that's my secret to success!” A Fusion of Belief, Talent, and Unwavering Effort Her advice to people in the built environment who want to combine their career with creative outlet or passion is to look at the world as a limitless place. “It's an endless canvas, and they should imagine that they're able to just take any colour they feel like on any given day. My family has taught me from a young age that anything is possible, and because I have always believed it, it became my truth.” She does however add that greatness is not only the product of belief and talent. “The other thing that got me here is the fact that I'm a very hard worker,” she explains. “In exploring all these various things, I dedicated myself to wanting to learn.” Ofentse also supports industry associations like ASAQS and always encourages young architects to become members. “The importance of these institutions is that they keep our field regulated and protect us from those who are practising illegitimately and giving the industry a bad name. Being part of an establishment like ASAQS empowers us to actively contribute to elevating the architecture and design domain, ensuring that the standards by which we design and create are always at the highest level.” And the pinnacle of excellence is where Ofentse has already proven herself to perform at her best. With her passion, dedication, and unwavering pursuit of excellence, she continues to craft a musical and architectural legacy that transcends disciplines and touches the hearts of audiences worldwide. ENDS MEDIA CONTACT FOR OFENTSE PITSE: [email protected] MEDIA CONTACT FOR THE ASAQS: Stephné du Toit, [email protected], 084 587 9933, www.atthatpoint.co.za For more information on ASAQS please visit: Website: www.asaqs.co.za LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/asaqs Twitter: @the_ASAQS Facebook: facebook.com/asaqsza  Vuyolwethu Badi, a seasoned Professional Quantity Surveyor with over 16 years of experience in the South African Built Environment, is making a significant impact in the industry. As a Director and Shareholder at RLB, a prominent global cost consultancy firm, her journey to success has been marked by determination, resilience, and a deep-rooted desire to uplift her community.
A Serendipitious Meeting with her Future Career Born and raised in rural Middledrift in the Eastern Cape, Vuyolwethu's upbringing in a conservative family laid the foundation for the person she is today. Her late mother, a teacher, and her father, a former politician and businessman, instilled in her the values of love, discipline, and nurturing. Despite her modest background, Vuyolwethu's drive and curiosity led her on an unexpected path towards quantity surveying. "I first went to a local school, but in Grade 3, I identified Adelaide Gymnasium school as my preferred choice,” she recalls. “I saw the girls from that school in their smart blazers and ties, and I wanted to dress like them. It connected me to the ‘big wide world’.” She then stumbled upon the industry by accident, she explains. “I approached a man who was measuring up the school's hostels for renovations and inquired about his work. That's when I discovered what quantity surveyors do. At that time, I was struggling to decide on a career, and I became convinced that quantity surveying would enable me to give back to my poor community." Vuyolwethu's journey to becoming a registered quantity surveyor involved hard work and perseverance. She completed her BTech degree in 2007 and joined RLB in 2014, where she made an immediate impression with her strong work ethic. By 2016, she had completed all the Professional Skills Modules prescribed by the South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession (SACQSP) and became a registered Professional Quantity Surveyor. Remarkably, she achieved her goal of becoming a director at the age of 33, ahead of her initial target of 35. She vividly remembers the early days when she struggled to secure an internship, but her boldness and determination prevailed. "In mid-February of the year I should have started my internship, I was still looking for a job. I walked into the Department of Public Works in Pretoria and asked to speak to someone about the quantity surveyors they worked with. I had to fend for myself without the support networks available to young women today," she shares. Giving back and moving forward Vuyolwethu says her involvement with ASAQS has been instrumental in her career development. Since 2016, she has proudly maintained her professional membership and briefly served on the ASAQS Gauteng Chapter from October 2022 to May 2023. "What I appreciate most about my membership with ASAQS has been the organization's steadfast commitment to providing high-quality, continued professional development training. Through various training modules and webinars, I have had the opportunity to stay abreast of industry trends and gain a deeper understanding of the quantity surveying profession," she affirms. As an experienced quantity surveyor, Vuyolwethu offers valuable advice to youngsters considering a career in the industry. "To truly excel and thrive in this challenging professional landscape, it is essential for youngsters to prioritize professionalism above all else," she asserts. “They should approach every task with focus, integrity, and high standards of work ethics while continuously seeking personal growth through acquiring new skills and expanding their knowledge.” Beyond her professional achievements, Vuyolwethu finds joy in traveling and cherishing moments with her family. “When I'm not engrossed in work, my mind is consumed by planning my next thrilling adventure. Exploring new destinations and creating unforgettable memories is my ultimate passion." With her remarkable achievements and unwavering spirit, Vuyolwethu is paving the way for future generations and leaving an indelible mark on the industry. ENDS MEDIA CONTACT: Stephné du Toit, [email protected], 084 587 9933, www.atthatpoint.co.za For more information on ASAQS please visit: Website: www.asaqs.co.za LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/asaqs Twitter: @the_ASAQS Facebook: facebook.com/asaqsza  Professor Nishani Harinarain, an Associate Professor in the Construction Studies Discipline, has emerged as a trailblazer in the field of construction and an inspiring figure for women in science.
With a career spanning over 17 years in academia (she was the first PhD graduate in Construction Management at UKZN) she has made significant contributions to the construction industry and has garnered several accolades for her outstanding work. "I was drawn to the construction industry because of my fascination with buildings and infrastructure,” she recalls. “I enjoy seeing projects come to life and being involved in the process." ‘Women add unique skills to the industry’ As a woman entering the construction field, Nishani faced numerous challenges, particularly those related to gender bias and stereotypes. "I was often the only woman on site or in the boardroom,” she explains. “I faced scepticism about my abilities, and although I did not encounter it, I know that the industry can be harsh and unwelcoming and, in the past, insensitive towards women." To overcome these challenges, Nishani emphasizes the importance of persistence and hard work. “I ensured that I was never excluded and that I was given the opportunities to grow. I think it is important for firms to create a more inclusive and supportive environment to address the unique challenges faced by women. Maybe this can even help attract and retain more women in the construction industry." When asked about the unique perspectives and skills that women bring to the field of quantity surveying, she highlights their collaborative nature and communication skills. “Our ability to foster strong relationships, facilitate teamwork, and effectively communicate with stakeholders can enhance project coordination and client satisfaction. Women also tend to be adept at building and nurturing relationships, which is crucial in quantity surveying. Developing trust and rapport with clients, contractors, and suppliers can lead to long-term partnerships and repeat business, contributing to the success of projects and the reputation of the quantity surveyor. We play an important role in the industry." Roleplayers should work together to encourage STEM careers Offering advice to young women considering a career in construction or quantity surveying, Nishani encourages them to explore their interests and connect with professionals in the field. “Their experiences and guidance can provide valuable insights and support as you navigate your own career path. Take the time to understand why you are interested in the construction industry or quantity surveying. Explore different aspects of the field to identify what truly resonates with you” To encourage more young girls to consider STEM careers in construction-related fields, Nishani suggests early exposure to STEM concepts and construction-related activities. "Girls need to be encouraged to pursue their interests and passions without societal limitations. There needs to be a collaboration between construction companies, industry associations, and professional organizations to promote diversity and inclusivity that specifically target girls and promote their entry into STEM fields within the construction industry." She believes that a career in quantity surveying is not only rewarding and fulfilling but also contributes to the industry's growth and helps shape a more diverse and inclusive future. *Professor Nishani Harinarain is a member of The Association of South African Quantity Surveyors and has been facilitating numerous webinars through the EduTech arm of the ASAQS. ENDS MEDIA CONTACT: Stephné du Toit, [email protected], 084 587 9933, www.atthatpoint.co.za For more information on ASAQS please visit: Website: www.asaqs.co.za LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/asaqs Twitter: @the_ASAQS Facebook: facebook.com/asaqsza  The Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) was proud to be represented by Karl Trusler, Executive Director of the ASAQS and Secretary General of the ICMS Trustees Coalition, at the recent International Cost Management Standards (ICMS) event held in London. This significant gathering took place from June 15th to June 17th, 2023, at the prestigious Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) offices on Parliament Square, Westminster.
Hosted by RICS and supported by the European Council of Construction Economists (CEEC), the event centered around the theme "Next Steps – Digitising Construction." It provided a platform for industry leaders and experts to exchange insights, discuss future developments, and strengthen international collaborations. The event's itinerary featured a thought-provoking seminar on digitisation in the construction industry, exploring innovative approaches to drive efficiency and productivity. Additionally, the ICMS Trustees Coalition Meeting offered an opportunity for key stakeholders to shape the future direction of cost management standards. The event concluded with the CEEC Annual General Meeting, fostering a sense of unity and cooperation among construction economists from Europe and beyond. Karl Trusler, a respected authority in the field, expressed his gratitude for the productive relationship between ASAQS, RICS, and CEEC. He emphasised the value of collaboration in areas of mutual interest and the exchange of knowledge and resources. This partnership not only benefits the ASAQS members working in the United Kingdom and Europe but also contributes to the growing diaspora of South African quantity surveyors making their mark globally. At the seminar, Trusler delivered a compelling presentation on "ICMS 3 & Future Mapping to National Standards." He showcased how the Elemental Method of Estimating, a familiar local system in South Africa, could be seamlessly integrated with the ICMS 3 coding library. By mapping the Elemental method to the ICMS framework, professionals can confidently prepare accurate Bill of Estimates (BOEs) using the familiar system and easily generate reports in either Elemental or ICMS formats, catering to their clients' specific needs. This approach mitigates the risks associated with implementing entirely new systems and facilitates the smooth transition from the "familiar" to the "new." While the ICMS 3 presents a global standard for reporting on construction life cycle costs and carbon emissions, Trusler acknowledged that not all countries have existing local systems that can be readily mapped to ICMS. In such cases, alternative means, including partnerships, would need to be explored to achieve adoption. The ASAQS is committed to fostering such collaborations to accelerate the worldwide adoption of ICMS 3 as the global standard. The ICMS 3 also provides a comprehensive solution for consistent reporting on carbon emissions, making it an invaluable tool for organisations worldwide committed to pursuing Net Zero targets. It is worth noting that ICMS 3 is freely available for use by all interested parties. To access the ICMS 3 document, please visit the official ICMS Coalition website at https://icms-coalition.org/the-standard/ The ASAQS remains dedicated to advancing the profession of quantity surveying, promoting global best practices, and driving international standards for cost management. Through its active involvement in events like the ICMS gathering, the association continues to contribute to the growth and development of the construction industry on a global scale. ENDS MEDIA CONTACT: Stephné du Toit, [email protected], 084 587 9933, www.atthatpoint.co.za For more information on ASAQS please visit: Website: www.asaqs.co.za LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/asaqs Twitter: @the_ASAQS Facebook: facebook.com/asaqsza |
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