The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) Schools Challenge is the South African Reserve Bank’s (SARB) flagship corporate social investment programme, designed to drive interest in economics and central banking among Grade 12 learners across South Africa.

Now in its 13th year, the competition is supported by the Department of Basic Education and the Independent Examination Board, and continues to grow – attracting more than 2 000 matric learners each year.

How the challenge works

Each participating school chooses four Grade 12 learners with Economics and Mathematics as subjects. The four-person teams and their teachers attend a day-long workshop, where SARB economists and officials enhance their understanding of monetary policy, public speaking and the central bank’s role in the economy.

SARB economists – some of whom are past beneficiaries of the challenge – also provide learners with resources, economic data and expert guidance.

The learners then submit essays written in the format of an MPC statement. Following an audited adjudication process, teams are shortlisted to move onto the second round.

The finalists then have an opportunity to present their statements and reasons for their interest rate decisions, contextualising global and domestic economic conditions using relevant data and information. Replicating an actual MPC press conference, they present their decisions and supporting arguments to a panel of judges.

Attractive prizes for winners

The members of the winning team each receive a SARB bursary, a cash prize and an iPad. Their school receives a cash prize and their educator a laptop. All finalists, their teachers and their schools also walk away with prizes.

How to participate

Attend one of the MPC Schools Challenge briefing sessions in your province by clicking here or by using the details below.

Watch the 2024 Winners' Announcement below

Highlights from previous challanges