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23 October 2023 | Story SAMKELO FETILE | Photo SAMKELO FETILE
Third year students: Sipho Majenge, Thapelo Tinte, Dr Edson Vengesai, Busisiwe Nhlapo and Tsolofelo Zwane.
Third year students: Sipho Majenge, Thapelo Tinte, Dr Edson Vengesai, Busisiwe Nhlapo and Tsolofelo Zwane.

The University of the Free State (UFS), Department of Economics and Finance in the Faculty of Economic and Management Science, has recently made headlines by achieving remarkable success in the prestigious JSE Investment Challenge competition. The 3rd-year group secured an impressive second position, while the Honours group claimed an outstanding third place. These achievements are truly commendable, given the fierce competition and rigorous evaluation of financial acumen that characterises this national competition.

The 3rd-year group, consisting of Thapelo Tinte, Sipho Majenge, Busisiwe Nhlapo and Tsolofelo Zwane, showcased their financial prowess by excelling in trading futures, a complex financial instrument that demands in-depth knowledge and expertise. On the other hand, the Honours group, comprised of Dawie Bekker, Divan Koch, Keith Tarr, and William Oosthuysen, dedicated their efforts to the stock market. These talented individuals took on the trading aspect of the competition, meticulously constructing and managing their portfolios.

The significance of the JSE Investment Challenge

The JSE Investment Challenge, organised by the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), is a prestigious national competition designed to introduce students to investment fundamentals, offering practical experience that equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary for informed decision-making in real financial markets. This educational stock trading programme also champions financial inclusion and equality by welcoming students from all fields of study. Distinguished by its association with the JSE, one of Africa's leading stock exchanges, the competition exudes credibility and prestige. Participation from universities across South Africa further enhances its national appeal. Moreover, it imparts invaluable real-world financial skills and knowledge, highlighting the participants’ ability to navigate the complexities of the stock market and effectively manage portfolios.

A test of financial prowess

In the challenge, each participating team is allocated R1 million in virtual money and is tasked with constructing a portfolio by purchasing securities on the JSE. This portfolio is closely monitored over six months, from March to September, with the team that generates the highest return across all universities declared as the winner. The rewards are enticing, with the top team receiving R30,000 and an all-expenses-covered international trip. The second and third-placed teams receive R20,000 and R10,000, respectively.

Dr Edson Vengesai plays a pivotal role as the guiding force behind the JSE Investment Challenge in the Department of Economics and Finance. He emphasises, “The success of the students in the JSE Investment Challenge reflects the institution's commitment to providing practical and relevant education. It demonstrates that the students are not only learning theory but also how to apply that knowledge in real-world scenarios. This achievement enhances the institution's reputation, particularly in the fields of finance and economics. It signifies a high-quality curriculum and a dedication to excellence in education”. 

For more information about the competition, interested individuals can contact Dr Vengesai through the Department of Economics and Finance in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences or via email at vengesaie@ufs.ac.za.

Dawie Bekker, William Oosthuysen, Dr Edson Vengesai, Divan Koch and Keith Tarr

Honours students: Dawie Bekker, William Oosthuysen, Dr Edson Vengesai, Divan Koch and Keith Tarr.

News Archive

Cultivating excellence and success through academics
2011-10-07

 

Unlocking potential. At the Golden Key South African Summit 2011 were, from the left: Dr Derek Swemmer, Registrar (UFS); Prof. Driekie Hay, Vice-Rector: Academic; Mr Ryk Neethling and Ms Charlene Gunter, Director: Golden Key International Honour Society, South Africa.
Photo: Phelekwa Mpono

More than 130 delegates are gathering for the Golden Key, South African Summit at the Bloemfontein Campus of the University of the Free State (UFS). Golden Key International Honour Society recognises academic excellence and uses knowledge to transform lives. It has 400 chapters in eight countries. Of South Africa’s 12 chapters, 11 were present at the summit.

Prof. Driekie Hay, Vice-Rector: Academic at the UFS, welcomed delegates from the respective chapters. She commended them for their perseverance and dedication to excel. “Your academic aspirations and commitment contribute to cultivating a culture of excellence. It will provide a better future for every South African citizen,” she said. Prof. Hay challenged delegates also to “act” by turning their knowledge into actions to advance not only themselves but also society. She also urged them to “discover” everything about themselves, their chosen disciplines, allies and oppositions. “Mostly, you must internalise the spirit of lifelong learning,” she said.

Mr Ryk Neethling, Olympic gold medallist and businessman, was the first keynote speaker. He took everyone through the steps that ultimately led to the moment of victory for him and his team. “We found a way to compete with heart and determination in the 2004 Olympic Games. We were prepared and we took everyone by surprise. “To achieve what one has set one’s mind to, we must dream big,” he said. “Play your part in the team and be confident. Remember that you are victors and not victims,” he urged. He further emphasised the importance of making one’s own luck and, most of all, never to give up.

Another speaker for the summit includes Ms Peggy-Sue Khumalo, former Miss South Africa. Dr Derek Swemmer, Registrar (UFS) will present a workshop on Strategic Action Planning.

This event is the first external lecture that is presented in the Metro’s found in the new Health Sciences Building on the Bloemfontein Campus of the UFS.
 

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