Since the first case of coronavirus was confirmed in South Africa, the government has instituted strict lockdown measures in an attempt to contain the spread of the coronavirus.
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This has had a negative impact on the architectural profession, including professionals who are unable to meet with clients face-to-face and clients hesitant to take on new projects.
The building environment is experiencing devastating financial distress due to the economic downturn and the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic have aggravated the state of affairs.
Furthermore, tendering for professional work which started more than 10 years ago has impacted negatively on the sustainability of the architectural profession.
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The South African Council for Architectural Profession (SACAP) has engaged with the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, Council for the Built Environment, Built Environment Councils and National Treasury to review the procurement policies for built environment professionals.
“The SACAP has explored several interventions to ease the pressure on the profession.
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“Taking into consideration the financial stress being experienced due to the economic downturn of the Covid-19 pandemic, SACAP has suspended a portion of the 2020/2021 annual fee increase for a period of six months.
“Furthermore, SACAP will not be cancelling any registration for a registered person for failure to pay annual fees until December 2020.
“These interventions are to ensure as many architectural businesses and jobs are saved after this pandemic,” said Charles Nduku, SACAP president.
He also encouraged architectural practices to utilise the relief funds created by the government, such as the Covid-19 relief from the UIF.
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