The Project Management Institute (PMI) has announced the addition of the University of Johannesburg (UJ) to its list of authorised training partners (ATP).

With this, UJ becomes PMI’s first academic ATP in South Africa to offer PMI Construction Professional (PMI-CP) certification training.

PMI says this achievement represents a significant milestone in enhancing professional construction project management standards in South Africa.

The certification was developed in collaboration with construction industry leaders and consultations with project managers who face the twin challenges of balancing technology and talent, it notes.

“We are excited to partner with an institution like UJ and proud to have them as the first academic ATP in South Africa for PMI-CP,” says PMI sub-Saharan Africa MD George Asamani.

“The certification is designed specifically for professionals in construction. It aims to equip individuals with the cutting-edge skills and knowledge required to successfully manage complex construction projects, emphasising the application of best project management practices tailored to the industry's unique challenges,” he adds.

Individuals keen to pursue the PMI-CP certification need three years of on-the-job experience (within the last ten years) in construction or built environment projects.

To become PMI-CP certified, they must complete four foundational eLearning courses, Construction Project Communications, Construction Interface Management, Construction Contract and Risk Management, and Construction Scope and Change Order Management, and pass the capstone exam.

UJ will provide aspiring construction professionals with access to training resources, expert instructors, and the latest industry insights.

This partnership will connect individuals to a global professional body and community, enabling an exchange of the latest industry trends.

As an ATP, UJ will contribute to individuals’ professional development and support the broader objective of enhancing project success and operational efficiency in the construction sector.

PMI-CP is designed for experienced construction professionals seeking to advance their careers. Enrolment for the training at UJ is now open, with instructor-led training set to start in July.

PMI has an existing partnership with the South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP) to offer construction-specific learning and development to those registered under the SACPCMP. SACPCMP-registered persons earn CPD for completing the selected PMI courseware.

Construction professionals and project managers can also join the PMI South Africa Chapter, a wholly volunteer-managed, nonprofit organisation.