Learning Priorities for Greening the South African Economy

30 August 2016, Midrand, South Africa - Twelve organizations gathered at the Vulindlela Academy, Development Bank of Southern Africa for the national validation workshop of the Green Economy Learning Assessment for South Africa (GELA). These included government partners, the Department of Environmental Affairs, Department of Trade and Industry and Department of Science and Technology, as well as education and training providers. The assessment, one of the inception activities of PAGE, seeks to identify the key competencies needed for transitioning to a green economy in South Africa, review existing institutional capacities and highlight priority action areas for education and training interventions.

The workshop provided an opportunity to review and discuss findings, and further refine the recommendations of the GELA. The draft report will also be circulated to a broader stakeholder network, including the PAGE National Steering Committee, before being finalised. The GELA will identify action areas for up-scaling green economy training initiatives in South Africa, including priority actions which could be addressed by PAGE. It will also highlight some of the systemic interventions required to mainstream inclusive green economy into the education and training landscape. 

Internationally recognised environment and sustainability education expert, Prof Heila Lotz-Sisitka, in her reflections on the assessment, identified the work as a key contributor to the broader landscape of green skills research in the country. The final report will be published in October 2016. If you would like to learn more about the PAGE Green Economy Learning Assessment in South Africa please reach out to: page@unitar.org

Photo 1:  Participants in the workshop.

Photo 2:  Participants discussing the assessment.

Photo 3:  Prof. Heila Lotz-Sisitka presenting the assessment.