Two economists recognised for effective media communication

The university recently paid tribute to a number of academics who have been particularly effective in media communication in their fields of expertise. In the Economics Department, two of our colleagues received Media Thought Leaders 2018 Awards, awarded to those who either commented, took part in interviews, and/or wrote opinion editorials and in some way shaped thinking in our country via their contributions in the media.

Prof Johan Fourie publishes regularly in Finweek and Rapport, on a diverse range of topics, such as the South African economy, development, markets and economic history. A recent article dealt with the costs of crime and pointed out that too little is understood about its causes and consequences in the South African context. A selection of his articles are available on his blog.

Dr Nic Spaull has become an authoratitive commentator on the South African education system, with recent articles pointing out that funding for basic education has declined in real terms, with devastating effects, and that none of the benefits of the Fourth Industrial Revolution could be realised by children lacking basic literacy skills, a pressing concern in South Africa. His articles can be read here.