07 September 2026
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Story Siqhamo Hlubi Jama
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Photo Siqhamo Hlubi Jama
Students and staff from the Department of Quantity Surveying and Construction Management at the University of the Free State welcomed representatives from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) during a recent engagement focused on international accreditation, professional development, and global career opportunities.
The department recently hosted a delegation from RICS, one of the world's leading professional bodies for the built environment. The visit formed part of the organisation's engagement with higher education institutions and students, with the UFS selected as one of only four South African universities included in the programme.
According to Prof Benita Zulch, Head of the Department of Quantity Surveying and Construction Management, the department's professional accreditation continues to create valuable opportunities for graduates.
"The BSc and BSc Honours (Quantity Surveying and Construction Management) programmes, offered in both residential and compact formats, are all fully accredited by RICS. The MLPM programmes, specialising in either Project Management or Valuation, are earmarked to obtain accredited status in the near future," she noted.
Connecting students to a global profession
During the engagement, the RICS Senior Manager: Early Years and Candidate Engagement, Archana Dutt, outlined the advantages of international accreditation and professional membership, emphasising how graduates can position themselves for opportunities both within South Africa and internationally.
Addressing students, an industry professional explained that the national and international demand for qualified quantity surveyors continues to grow.
"The degree gets you in – a passport that takes you places. So, the degree that you are doing here at the UFS is definitely a great enabler in your career."
Delegates highlighted the growing demand for professionals across markets such as the Middle East, Australia, and Europe, where RICS-accredited graduates are actively recruited through graduate development programmes. They also noted that many professionals are increasingly able to work for international companies while remaining based in South Africa.
Accreditation as a competitive advantage
A recurring message throughout the visit was that students enrolled in accredited programmes enter the profession with a distinct advantage.
A RICS representative explained that graduates from accredited programmes can begin their journey towards professional membership significantly earlier than those without recognised qualifications. "What is important for you as students is to remember that once you get placed and you decide to pursue a RICS pathway, you have to ensure that a balance is maintained between work and career. If you have that balance, it will lead to your success."
The delegation also discussed the growing recognition of RICS qualifications by employers, municipalities, and international organisations, noting that professional accreditation is increasingly becoming an important benchmark for competence and professional standards.
Building future-ready professionals
Beyond technical qualifications, students were encouraged to develop professional networks, seek mentorship opportunities, and actively engage with industry communities.
RICS Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Sybil Taunton, emphasised that employability depends not only on academic achievement but also on demonstrating initiative, professionalism, and a commitment to continuous development.
Reflecting on the value of professional engagement, delegates encouraged students to take advantage of industry networks and international opportunities while building careers that can operate across borders and sectors.
For the Department of Quantity Surveying and Construction Management, the visit underscored the importance of maintaining internationally recognised programmes that equip graduates with the knowledge, competencies, and professional outlook required in a rapidly evolving global construction industry.