Housing in Southern Africa March 2015

H e 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: johan@sarma.co.za or go to www.sarma.co.za ■ often not worth the paper they are written on, according to General Manager of the Southern Africa Readymix Association (Sarma), Johan van Wyk. Sarma warns of overpriced concrete training Supposed top-flight, high-priced concrete training workshops that are being actively marketed to the concrete industry are

March 2015