Economics students gain real-world insight at monetary policy forum

Second-year Economics students from the Tshwane University of Technology’s (TUT) Faculty of Economics and Finance gained first-hand insight into South Africa’s economic decision-making during a visit to the Monetary Policy Forum (MPF) hosted by the South African Reserve Bank (SARB). The experience exposed students to practical economic discussions and strengthened their understanding of monetary policy and global economic developments.

Economics second year students attending the 2026 Monetary Policy Review. The visit formed part of an academic learning experience aimed at giving students deeper insight into how economic policy is shaped in South Africa. The Monetary Policy Forum, hosted by SARB, raises public awareness about monetary policy while promoting transparency and accountability through open discussions on economic developments and policy decisions.

Students actively participated in discussions and shared their perspectives during interviews with various media organisations. The platform allowed them to ask questions, express opinions and reflect on their understanding of global economic issues.

Lesetja Kganyago, Governor of SARB, said the Bank entered 2026 with greater optimism despite ongoing global uncertainty.

“We entered the year slightly more optimistic than during the previous MPF released in October 2025. The global economy has adapted and has adapted well to current global events,” he said.

Oletilwe Mojela and Karabo Mokgomotsi described the experience as an eye-opening opportunity that exposed them to real economic discussions affecting everyday life.

“We were part of the people who had the chance to sit on the monetary policy review panel. We discussed how the war in the Middle East affects us and our monetary policy, what it means for motorists and travellers with the increase in fuel prices, but most importantly, what it means for our inflation rate. The experience was an eye-opener and we were privileged to meet the governor of the Reserve Bank,” they said.

The engagement helped students understand the impact of monetary policy on society while strengthening their academic knowledge and understanding of South Africa’s economic landscape.