TUT students predict 2026 priorities for budget speech

Economics and Finance students at TUT predict modest GDP growth and increased spending on education, healthcare and infrastructure ahead of the National Budget Speech.

Dr Malibongwe Nyathi, Economist at the Tshwane University of Technology, led a Let’s Talk Finance discussion where students in Economics and Finance predicted key priorities for the 2026 National Budget Speech.

With Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, set to present the budget, students analysed how the fiscal framework may shape the country’s socio-economic future. They reflected on areas that underperformed in previous years and exchanged views on improving living conditions for citizens, including the unemployed and elderly.

Dr Nyathi and Dr Levy Ndou, Political Analyst and lecturer in Public Management, guided the discussion and focused on national financial pressures and expected policy direction. Freddy Madise facilitated the engagement between the two academics.

Dr Nyathi predicted GDP growth of below two percent. “Assuming that Eskom will remain stable as it currently is and some of the external factors that contributes into our growth are favourable, we should expect GDP of 1.5% to 1.9 %. I am positive about it and optimistic,” he said.

According to Dr Ndou, the budget may prioritise education, healthcare and infrastructure. “Funding allocations often target problematic areas and that is exactly what everyone expects. Education may receive significant support due to the number of students funded through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. In the State of the Nation Address, the President emphasised inclusive growth and job creation, he said.

In conclusion, Dr Nyathi highlighted the role of research in strengthening economic growth and supporting long-term national development.

Finance and Economics students taking part in the budget speech prediction discussion.