BY Nkosazana Ngwadla
Two students from the University of Johannesburg (UJ) have emerged as the champions in the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) Investment Challenge. Sebolaishi Manamela and Madoda Hlatshwayo, both first-year Accounting Science students at UJ, formed the winning team known as VK 29 MMS. Their victory came as a result of their impressive growth in their investment portfolio.
The JSE Investment Challenge, a monthly virtual trading financial literacy competition organized by the JSE, utilises gamification to enhance the financial knowledge and investment fundamentals of young individuals. VK 29 MMS secured the top position in the university category with an impressive growth rate of 7.67%, showcasing their ability to navigate the complexities of the stock market and seize investment opportunities.
Reflecting on her motivation to participate in the challenge, Manamela expressed her desire to learn something new. She initially held the misconception that the top 40 companies listed on the JSE consistently increased in value, which the challenge dispelled.
She shared her newfound knowledge, saying, “I learned how to trade and be mindful when trading, which adds an extra skill to my skills, and I now know I have the capability to use trading as a source of extra income for myself.”
The Commerce 100 course, a requirement for first-year students at UJ, includes participation in the JSE Challenge. According to their lecturer, Suzaan Hughes, this exposure provides students with valuable skills. Hughes emphasised the significance of financial literacy and the insights gained from trading on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, which fosters a unique understanding of the business world.
Hlatshwayo noted one of his major takeaways from the experience was that failure is not the end but rather a stepping stone to success. He also learned essential financial management skills, including generating high income with minimal spending.
Manamela emphasised how participating in the challenge enhanced her understanding of her coursework. She found that trading helped her identify asset values, calculate profitability, and analyse a company’s financial sources, aligning with her studies as an accountant.
The JSE Investment Challenge, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, attracted 24,000 participants last year.
Image and source: UJ
