Act 38 of 2000 created the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), a crucial organization in South Africa’s construction scene. Its main goal is to establish a framework for development and regulation that improves the country’s building capacity, which will promote social and economic advancement.
CIDB’s Mandate and Structure
Operating under the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), the CIDB functions as a Schedule 3A public entity. The Board, appointed by the Minister, ensures that the organization upholds high standards and practices within the industry. This governance structure is designed to promote accountability and excellence in South Africa’s construction sector.
Centres of Excellence (COE)
One of CIDB’s notable initiatives is the establishment of Centres of Excellence (COE). These centers serve as hubs for research, knowledge sharing, and academic development in the construction industry. By collaborating with universities, the COEs aim to bolster research capacity and academic growth, focusing on areas such as Research and Development (R&D). A significant emphasis is placed on nurturing black and female academics and researchers, aligning with the broader goals of industry transformation and inclusivity.
Capacity Building and Skills Development
CIDB is deeply committed to enhancing skills development and capacity building within the construction sector. Engagements with Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges are part of this commitment, supporting the development of essential construction skills. Participation in international competitions, such as WorldSkills, underscores CIDB’s dedication to preparing future construction professionals for global standards.
Construction Industry Transformation and Support
In line with its strategic goal of industry transformation, CIDB promotes training for built environment researchers. This includes offering postgraduate bursaries and internship programs, with a particular focus on supporting black female students. By addressing the specific needs of the public sector, CIDB contributes to creating a more inclusive and diverse construction industry.
Achievements and Impact
In recent years, CIDB has marked several significant milestones. For instance, during the 2020/21 financial year, the organization graduated two Ph.D. students, enrolled twelve postgraduate students, and employed postdoctoral fellows to support these candidates. CIDB also completed commissioned research reports and published works in peer-reviewed journals. Notably, their publication on ‘The Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on the Construction Industry’ provided valuable insights into the sector’s response during the pandemic and strategies for a robust post-lockdown recovery.