Day 1|18 August 2026 Turning Policy Into Performance, Promises Into Progress
08:00 - 09:00
REGISTRATION & REFRESHMENTS
09:00 – 09:05
MODERATOR’S WELCOME |Elma Akob, Founder, Elevate Africa Academy
09:05 - 09:10
ORGANISERS INTRO|Emlyn Dunn,Project Manager, Topco Media
09:10 - 09:25
KEYNOTE ADDRESS |Ethical Leadership and Rebuilding Public Trust Strong institutions are the foundation of a capable state, and trust is the currency that makes them work. The erosion of ethical governance has been described as a critical threat, with "very serious red lights flashing for our government and our democracy" . Yet history shows that institutions can be rebuilt when leaders choose integrity over convenience. Speaker: Dr Mathews Phosa, Celebrated SA Leader, Prominent Businessman & Attorney
09:25 - 09:40
DEPUTYMINISTER’SADDRESS|ReformingPost-SchoolEducationandTrainingfor a Changing World The post-school educationandtrainingsectorisundergoingasignificantreset, shifting towards measurable outcomes, accountability, and system-wide integration. This session explores the government's reform agenda, including efforts to strengthen vocational training, improve workplace-based learning, andensurethattheeducationsystemdeliverseconomicopportunityandsocial mobilityforallSouthAfricans.Itaskswhatittakestobuildasystemthatprepares young people for the future of work and ensures that no one is left behind.
*=Invited speaker / not confirmed or committed as yet NB: Note that this Programme is subject to change without notice