As South Africa prepares for Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s national address on Wednesday, Wits University is already celebrating a major victory. Eight exceptional students from the Wits School of Economics and Finance have been named finalists in the prestigious 54th Nedbank Old Mutual Budget Speech Competition, cementing the institution’s reputation as a powerhouse for future economic leaders.
Out of only 20 finalists selected nationwide, Wits has secured nearly half the spots, with six undergraduate and two postgraduate students heading to Cape Town to compete for top honors.
The Brightest Minds: Meet the Wits Finalists
The Wits delegation underwent a rigorous adjudication process, where their analytical depth and policy-shaping potential were tested by a panel of top-tier academics and industry experts.
Undergraduate Stars:
- Matlhatsi Jood, Dakalo Munyai, Annabel Uttley, Robert Laubscher, Oluchukwe Ugwuanyi, and Ramosoeu Sekati.
- Task: They tackled the complex debate on Trade Protectionism, exploring how import tariffs could potentially stimulate job creation within developing economies like South Africa.
Postgraduate Powerhouses:
- Sikelelwe Magoda and Audrey Manyangeni.
- Task: They provided high-level evaluations of Inflation Targeting, analyzing optimal lower targets and the timing of implementation compared to international standards.
Voices of Industry: Investing in the Next Generation
Jurie Strydom, CEO of Old Mutual South Africa, expressed immense optimism about the cohort, stating:
“The finalists have demonstrated exceptional analytical ability and a clear commitment to contributing meaningfully to the country’s economic future.”
Nedbank Chief Executive, Jason Quinn, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of an engaged citizenry:
“The intellectual rigour displayed underscores our conviction that nurturing engagement with issues of public policy supports a stable and vibrant democracy.”
The Grand Finale in Cape Town
The finalists are currently in Cape Town for the final hurdle: a series of intensive panel interviews. The journey culminates on Wednesday, 25 February, with a prestigious gala dinner timed to coincide with the official Budget Speech. Winners will be announced during the evening, walking away with significant accolades and scholarships.
Since its inception in 1972, this competition has been a cornerstone for developing black leaders in Economics and promoting sustainable development. This year, Witsies are leading the charge.
