The African Association of Exhibition Organisers Launches CEM Course
Worth approximately 890 billion U.S. dollars in 2020, the global events industry is expected to grow to more than two trillion U.S. dollars by 2028[1], whilst South Africa’s rapidly developing economy at present contributes more than US$409.20m to the global figure with an expected annual growth rate of 4.67% expected from 2023 – 2027.
As a growing industry that employs thousands of events professionals, professional development is crucial in supporting members of the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) industry in opening doors to more opportunities, elevating credibility, distinguishing from competitors, and supporting in earning potential.
Together with the IAEE (International Association of Exhibitions and Events), the African Association of Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) has announced the opening of the coveted Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) Learning Programme in South Africa.
An eight-part adult learning and certification programme designed to provide industry professionals an in-depth understanding of the overall operations of the industry, the CEM designation is a globally recognised designation that demonstrates the highest professional standard throughout the exhibitions and events management arena.
Currently, in South Africa, there are only 10 CEM graduates in the country that form part of the total 3,700 designation holders worldwide.
The CEM Learning Program’s comprehensive course of study information is based on a curriculum blueprint that is composed of the essential concepts required of a professional in the exhibitions and events management industry. It’s an education program first and a designation program second so students can take what they learn in the classroom and apply it to their careers after their first class.
“As an alumni of the CEM Learning Programme, I can confirm with conviction that the programme has provided me with valuable tools, resources and skills to further develop my career in the events and exhibitions industry. By engaging with a network of experienced events professionals from across the world, I’ve had the opportunity to learn best practices across a variety of topics pertinent to event success,” says Devi Paulsen-Abbott, Chairperson of AAXO and Vice President of dmg events.
The CEM Learning Programme comprises of eight-parts, including: Conference and Meeting Management; Consumer Show Management; Event Marketing; Event Operations; Exhibitions and Sales Fundamentals; Finance, Budget and Contracts; Security, Risk and Crisis Management; and Strategic Planning and Management.
