PROJECT 31
manage effectively ,” stresses Scheepers . Another major challenge , the hard lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic , was turned into an opportunity for breathing space for the team to finalise the design evaluation for 12 new projects and carefully plan how to ensure the best collaboration .
“ During the stricter lockdown we managed to make major inroads into the design development process , to the extent that we have already been able to commence with these programmes now that the restrictions have eased .” Scheepers further notes how future-proofing has been additionally incorporated into the entire SPU precinct , for example , classrooms are now fully equipped for remote learning .
“ It is rare to get a project that embraces the core values of your business . For us these are safety , collaboration , innovation , anticipation , delivery , and dream ,” comments Dean Narainsamy , Project Cost Consultancy Director . “ Education is key to unlocking the potential of future generations , and I am proud that AECOM has played a pivotal role in making this dream a reality .”
While the current project is expected to continue until at least mid- 2022 , AECOM has been awarded a further contract extension .
this as a “ bold and original project that pushes the boundaries of architectural and engineering design ” for deploying concrete as both a structural and aesthetic material .
With Kimberley officially designated as a semi-arid area , AECOM has been diligent in incorporating the latest sustainability features at the project . These range from synthetic surfaces for the sports fields to water-saving measures such as artificial landscaping materials for the landscaping , making the SPU precinct one of the most advanced of its kind in Africa .
Apart from providing employment for around 1 000 residents , a specific focus of the project has been community involvement . Specific targets for local participation , empowerment and skills development have been set in conjunction with the Department of Higher Education .
“ We are training a significant portion of the local workforce and these are skills that will remain in the Kimberley area long past the project ’ s completion . This ranges from small business development to community upliftment and local procurement . We are putting in place a legacy that will stand by itself , not only for the students , but for the local community as well ,” comments Kevina Kakembo , Candidate Quantity Surveyor at AECOM .
The biggest challenge to-date has been the remote location , which has complicated the logistics of procuring specialist materials and services . “ These are the types of challenges that we have had to
All images : AECOM
Education is key to unlocking the potential of future generations , and AECOM is proud to have played a pivotal role in making this dream a reality .
May 2021 Volume 27 I Number 3 www . plumbingafrica . co . za