Policy and lawmakers outreach and education

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is actively engaged in outreach, education, upskilling, and capacity-building initiatives tailored for policymakers and legislators across various critical domains, including economics, law, technology, migration and displacement, and climate change. These efforts are designed to equip decision-makers with the necessary knowledge and skills to formulate informed and effective policies.

Economics

UJ offers specialised programmes aimed at enhancing the economic expertise of professionals involved in policy-making:

• Master of Commerce in Competition and Economic Regulation: This programme is structured to provide students with advanced knowledge in economic analysis pertinent to competition and regulatory matters. It is particularly beneficial for individuals working within competition authorities, economic regulators, government departments, and economic consultancies. The curriculum encompasses modules on microeconomic and macroeconomic issues, financial analysis, and quantitative methods, all tailored to the African economic context. The programme is delivered primarily online, supplemented by intensive face-to-face sessions, making it accessible to part-time students and professionals across the continent. 
• Public and Environmental Economics Research Centre (PEERC): Established in 2017, PEERC conducts research focusing on the economics of government, environmental sustainability, and public finance. The centre addresses key challenges related to sustainable development and provides valuable insights for policymakers. Through its research outputs, PEERC contributes to the formulation of policies that balance economic growth with environmental preservation. 

Law

The Faculty of Law at UJ offers a range of non-subsidised short learning programmes designed for professionals seeking to update their legal knowledge and skills:

• Short Courses: These part-time programmes cover various legal fields and are curated to meet the needs of professionals aiming to reskill, upskill, or gain new qualifications. The courses are delivered in a hybrid format, combining online lectures with face-to-face workshops, thus accommodating the schedules of working professionals. Participants are instructed by industry experts and renowned academics, ensuring a high-quality learning experience.

Migration and Displacement

UJ’s Centre for Education Rights and Transformation (CERT) engages in activities that address issues related to migration and displacement:

• Public Lectures and Webinars: CERT organises events focusing on themes such as indigeneity, decoloniality, and social justice. For instance, a public lecture titled “Indigeneity in Colonial and Decolonial Horizons: Spectacles of Culture and Identity in South Africa” was held to explore cultural and identity challenges in the context of migration and displacement. These events provide platforms for policymakers, academics, and community members to engage in meaningful discussions, fostering a deeper understanding of migration-related issues. 

Climate Change

Through its research centres and academic programmes, UJ contributes to the discourse on climate change:

• Research Initiatives: Centres like PEERC conduct research on environmental economics, focusing on sustainable development and the economic impacts of climate change. The insights generated inform policymakers on effective strategies to address environmental challenges, promoting policies that are both economically viable and environmentally sustainable. 

In summary, the University of Johannesburg demonstrates a robust commitment to empowering policymakers and legislators through targeted educational programmes and research initiatives. By addressing critical areas such as economics, law, migration, and climate change, UJ plays a pivotal role in shaping informed policy decisions that contribute to societal advancement.