The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) has officially launched its Student Chapter: Orientation Programme for 2026, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing the next generation of built environment professionals and city-makers.

The programme aims to introduce students to the work of the JDA while inspiring meaningful engagement with urban development, public spaces, and transformative city-building initiatives across Johannesburg.

The 2026 orientation programme commenced recently with an oversight site visit for students from the University of the Witwatersrand. Participants included first, second, and third-year students pursuing BSc Construction Studies and BSc Property Studies, as well as Honours students enrolled in BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying, BSc (Hons) Property Studies, and BSc (Hons) Construction Management.

Through participation in the programme, students were afforded the opportunity to:

• Gain insight into real-world urban development projects and careers within the built environment and related disciplines.
  
• Understand how academic study connects to practical, large-scale city development.
• Explore opportunities for future collaboration, internships, research, and professional growth.

As part of the orientation, students visited several flagship JDA projects that highlight the Agency's role in shaping a resilient, inclusive, and economically vibrant city:

Sandton BRT Project: This transformative transport initiative forms part of the Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Phase 1C expansion, introducing dedicated bus lanes, modern stations, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure along key corridors.

Linbro Park Landfill Site: The Linbro Park Landfill project, undertaken on behalf of PikitUp,  focuses on environmental rehabilitation and infrastructure planning to unlock surrounding land for future development.

Gandhi Square BRT Project: Located in the heart of Johannesburg's CBD, this project involves the upgrading of BRT infrastructure and improvements to the public environment within the Gandhi Square precinct.

Chancellor House Restoration Project: Located in downtown Johannesburg, Chancellor House is a provincial heritage site that once housed Mandela & Tambo Attorneys, South Africa's first Black-owned law firm.


JDA spokesperson Kenneth Nxumalo highlighted the agency's commitment to education and skills development: “By exposing students to catalytic infrastructure and heritage projects, we are not only showcasing the impact of urban development but also inspiring the next generation of professionals who will shape Johannesburg's future."

“On behalf of all the students who attended the tour, I would like to express our sincere gratitude for the opportunity. The experience was truly phenomenal. Many students are not accustomed to visiting multiple project sites in a single day, let alone gaining exposure to such specialised properties," said Phathutshedzo Mainganya, a Wits University student doing honours in Property Studies.

14/04/2026

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