The University of Pretoria (UP) recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Australian Institute of Building (AIB) with the aim of establishing closer cooperation between the two organisations in an effort to enhance the professionalism of builders, construction managers, academics and graduates in the profession of construction management in Australia and in South Africa.

The MoU was signed by Mr Norman Faifer, National President of the AIB, and Prof Tinus Maritz, Head of the Department of Construction Economics at UP, on 17 April 2015 at the Pan Pacific Hotel in Perth, Australia.

Prof Maritz says the relationship between the two organisations will be characterised by collaboration, goodwill, a professional approach and the constant pursuit of excellence. ‘Our activities will be conducted based on mutual respect for each other's systems of work, structures, culture and values and will support, in an effective and integrated manner, operations being carried out. To measure the progress and success of the agreement we shall meet annually to review the understanding and to identify opportunities to strengthen the relationship.’

Both organisations are eager to enter into additional agreements to support collaborative activities and to enhance their commitment to the profession of construction management and to education in this field. ‘Our aim is to promote the values of membership of professional institutes, to promote and encourage research in the field of construction management, and to promote student and graduate engagement in student groups and in the industry,’ says Prof Maritz.