Housing in Southern Africa March 2015

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March 2015
He says, “Although not illegal, the type
of information being presented may be
counter-productive or even harmful to
the industry and can have a negative effect on the
quality of concrete produced in future.”
A personalised email invitation recently
pricked the curiosity of Johan van Wyk, who
found several inaccuracies in themarketingmate-
rial he had been sent and as a result decided to
investigate further.
Upon closer investigation, the workshop, of-
fered by a foreign media house operating from
Randburg, was found to be using the names
of at least two well-known professionals, who
had not even heard of the planned workshop. In
addition the course claimed to offer continuing
professional development (CPD) points through a
professional institution, whichwas incorrect. Van
Wyk says that information was clearly designed
for cold climates – they however still continue to
market this workshop.
“We suggest that instead of spending money
on seemingly impressive, well-marketed courses,
we advise to first check with the industry body
that represents their sector.”
In addition, professional bodies such as
Sarma, provide industry specific workshops on
a wide range of topics annually. Requests can
also be made for workshops to be organised and
may be hosted by either the association, or by an
accredited training provider. The workshops are
affordable as they are not driven by profit and
attendance.
South Africa has some of the world’s most
accomplished concrete professionals and local
industry bodies and training authorities have a
wealth of expertise (and experience) to call upon
when compiling local training programs and
schedules. They also understand our conditions,
by-laws, standards and best practices better than
anyone else. “Sarma is 100%behindbringing new
technologies and expertise fromabroad to South
Africa, but would like to caution the industry
against forking out money to just anyone who
happens to offer a workshop.” For further infor-
mation, contact Sarma on 011 791 3327, or email:
or go to ■
Sarma warns of
overpriced concrete
training
Supposed top-flight, high-priced concrete
training workshops that are being actively
marketed to the concrete industry are
often not worth the paper they are written
on, according to General Manager of the
Southern Africa Readymix Association
(Sarma), Johan van Wyk.