Sanlam opens 2026 Summer School for 12 African financial journalists

The 2026 Sanlam Summer School for Financial Journalists has officially commenced in South Africa, bringing together 12 selected journalists from six African countries for a week of intensive training. Hosted at the Pecan Manor Conference Venue from October 25 to 30, the program is designed to enhance the capacity of media professionals to report on the continent's complex economic landscape. This year’s session is being held under the theme, “Leading Africa’s Economic Narratives through Precision Journalism,” highlighting the critical role of data-driven and accurate reporting in shaping regional development.

During the initial phase of the program, participants engaged in sessions focused on the technical aspects of financial reporting and the integration of new technologies in the newsroom. A significant highlight included an overview of Artificial Intelligence (AI) presented by Malebo Phage, which examined how emerging digital tools can be leveraged to improve journalism standards. The curriculum aims to equip reporters with the analytical skills necessary to interpret economic data and present it in a way that informs public policy and investor confidence.

Beyond classroom-based learning, the training schedule incorporates networking activities and visits to local attractions. these sessions are intended to foster collaboration and the exchange of diverse perspectives among journalists from different African regions, allowing them to share insights on common economic priorities and challenges. The initiative, which was established in 2003, has a significant legacy of professional development on the continent, having trained more than 550 journalists over the past two decades.

As the 2026 cohort undergoes training, the program continues to emphasize the importance of high-quality financial journalism as a pillar of economic transparency. By providing journalists with access to experts and advanced reporting techniques, Sanlam aims to ensure that Africa's economic story is told with greater precision and depth. The program concludes at the end of the week, with participants expected to apply their new skills to enhance financial literacy and economic discourse in their respective home countries.