Successful Conclusion of the ASAQS Western Cape Presidential Tour: A Triumph of Resilience and Professional Commitment

The Western Cape Chapter Annual General Meeting and Presidential Tour 2023 successfully concluded despite early season rain and cold weather, which affected attendance on 7 June. The event, led by Chris Steffen, the Western Cape Chapter President, showcased the resilience and determination of the attendees.
 
The Annual General Meeting commenced with an engaging address from the Executive Director of the ASAQS, Karl Trusler, followed by speeches from the President of the SACQSP, Nosiyabonga Mongane, and the President of the ASAQS, Newton Baloyi. These insightful presentations highlighted the commitment of both organizations to advancing the quantity surveying (QS) profession on a national level and beyond.
 
Participants enjoyed productive networking sessions, enhanced by welcomed refreshments that fostered camaraderie and knowledge exchange. Despite the challenging weather conditions, the event proved to be enriching and left a strong message that the ASAQS and SACQSP are fully committed to demonstrating unwavering local support for the QS profession.
 
The President of the SACQSP, in a heartfelt appeal, called for collective efforts to create a better future. This appeal was met with warmth and appreciation, signaling the unity and shared vision among professionals in the field.
 
Separate meetings the MBA Western Cape, the University of Cape Town, the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, and local practices. Among the areas of discussions included the possibility of developing a guideline for pricing for contractor QS’s; collaboration with academic institutions on research in areas of common interest;  developing an objective services and charges guide to curb underpricing of professional fees and disproportionate apportionment of fees across professions; and conducting a survey on the extent of payment delays on professional fees by government in order to reach out to government for resolution of the matter.
 
The occasion underscored the importance of face-to-face meetings, particularly in an era marked by remote work and online interactions. The unique dimension that in-person gatherings offer was evident, emphasizing the significance of effective human connection, goodwill, and progress among fellow professionals and industry partners.
 
The resumption of Presidential Tours, post-COVID, is expected to ignite a revival of the Chapters. These Chapters serve as the "eyes and ears" on the ground, providing vital feedback on local conditions as practising professionals. The ASAQS acknowledges its responsibility to recognize and address these conditions, working towards crafting effective solutions.
 
With the successful conclusion of the Eastern Cape and Western Cape Presidential Tours, we now look ahead with great anticipation to the Northern Cape Chapter, scheduled for 2 and 3 August 2023.
 
About the ASAQS:
The Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) is a professional body that represents quantity surveyors in South Africa. ASAQS strives to advance the quantity surveying profession through education, training, and promoting best practices, ensuring the highest standards of professionalism in the industry. For more information, visit www.asaqs.co.za
 
About the SACQSP:
The South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession (SACQSP) is the regulatory body responsible for promoting and regulating the quantity surveying profession in South Africa. SACQSP aims to protect the public interest by ensuring that quantity surveyors uphold the highest ethical and professional standards. For more information, visit www.sacqsp.org.za
 
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