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01 April 2021 | Story Dr Nitha Ramnath | Photo Supplied
Back: Dr Nico Keyser (editor), Dr Ivan van der Merwe. Front: Minette Weideman (Portfolio Manager at Levevis Investment and Consulting Services), Melanie Ferreira (Business Development Manager at Allan Gray), Dr Cecile Duvenhage (editor) and Lizelle Jansen van Rensburg (Lecturer). Dr Jesse de Beer (Lecturer at University of Namibia) was absent.

Two lecturers from the Department of Economics and Finance at the University of the Free State (UFS) teamed up with alumni – who were once students in their department – to write a book on personal finance. This book is the latest hands-on application of the theory in practice.

“From the book it is evident how our alumni – who once were learners – became educators and contributed to teaching and learning,” says Dr Cecile Duvenhage, Lecturer in the Department of Economics and Finance, about the book Personal Finance. The desire to write this book stems from previous studies done by Dr Duvenhage and Dr Nico Keyser, Senior Lecturer, on the financial literacy levels among young adults. 

One such study was published in the Journal of Psychology in Africa (29(4):460-465). According to the study, young adults lack the basic understanding of financial aspects. Theory can be learned by heart, but the understanding and execution of well-informed financial decisions need to be addressed. Thus, the book was written in such a way that it is easy to understand, and with the aim of changing financial behaviour and attitude in a positive manner. The book provides useful websites and appendices for additional information and reading, and is aimed at the man on the street, researchers, and practitioners. 

Acording to the authors, during the writing of the book in 2020, new challenges arose, including the dramatic impact of COVID-19 on the financial market, and these aspects were included during the final stages and editing of this book. 

“Why personal finance? ‘Money makes the world go round’, the saying goes. Good financial decision making has a positive influence on overall well-being, allowing people to maximise their opportunities and lead more fulfilling lives. Personal finance teaches individuals financial skills so that they can manage their money better. The subject, Personal finance, is an interdisciplinary subject and encompasses many areas and core topics such as decision making, cash-flow management, savings, credit, debt, housing, and planning for the future.” 

Personal Finance (first edition) was published by Van Schaik Publishers and has been available from leading bookshops since the end of December 2020.  All chapters were critically reviewed by three (3) university lecturers and a qualified editorial panel.

News Archive

TV star calls for dialogue on gender empowerment
2014-04-01


Jo-Anne Reyneke giving students and staff a talk from the heart.

TV star Jo-Anne Reyneke – previously known as 'Pearl' in Muvhango (SABC 2) and now 'Prudence' in Rhythm City (etv) – warned Qwaqwa Campus students to be careful of the things they say. She was speaking during the recent launch of the Qwaqwa Campus Gender Forum.

“As young people, you must learn to always truly listen and understand what your friends say. You must also be careful of the things you say, as you might prevent or be the cause of your friend's suicide, if you are not careful. What might seem like a small thing might have far-reaching results for you and your friend.

“Respect those who are different from you, as all of us would like to be accepted as we are. Carry yourself in a manner that shows you love yourself – and this starts with you respecting yourself and those who are different from you,” said Reyneke.

Reyneke also acknowledged that growing up was not easy for her, since she was labelled 'a Zulu-speaking white' due to her light complexion.

“I am glad that this campus has this kind of forum which will enable all – victims and perpetrators – to come together and share their experiences. This will further promote healing, reconciliation and unity.”

The Gender Forum is tasked with encouraging dialogue on matters that concern gender sensitivity and equality. It encourages both staff and students to break their silence and to create an environment of tolerance based on respect for human dignity and inclusiveness. The forum is constituted by various stakeholders with special skills in counselling, facilitation and empowerment in general.

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