(Johan) JS Spamer

Biography

Johan’s research focuses on how to address the wicked problem of exclusion in South Africa, related to the country’s triple challenge of poverty, unemployment and inequality. The study examines the use of the Blue Economy, as a new transformational and sustainable development approach, to tackle aforementioned problems. Contextually, the Blue Economy is primarily linked to ocean-based sectors and actors who are considered to be enablers of innovation; pioneering good business and practices; calling for sustainable maritime livelihoods; and proclaiming the responsible use of oceans as natural capital.

Prior to setting his sails on a PhD voyage, he lectured at Stellenbosch University, after some time in the private and public sectors. His professional career includes managerial positions at the World Bank Group, (activities include development programmes in South Africa and Zambia). He holds a Masters in Transport Economics, an MBA and a PGD in Development Finance. Johan, supervised by prof. dr. Peter Knorringa and dr. Jan Fransen, was invited as an expert discussant to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa’s 24th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee of Experts for Southern Africa. The event was held in Mauritius in September 2018 under the theme:  Blue Economy, Inclusive Industrialization and Economic Development in Southern Africa.