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Johannesburg, November 2023 – The 2023 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTPBS) recognises, reflects and has been structured to respond to key headwinds facing the global and South African economy. The policy positions contained in this mini-budget are welcome for the fact that they communicate important reform signals. The only way to place the economy …
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Nzimande conferred with honorary professorship
Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, has been awarded an honorary professorship by the Beijing Jiaotong University in China.
The awarding of the professorship is in recognition of his contributions to education, and is a symbol of strengthening ties between South Africa and China.
In his acceptance speech, Nzimande said he was deeply honoured and grateful for the honour bestowed upon him by such a prestigious institution.
“Professor YU Zujun, President of Beijing Jiaotong University and dear colleagues, it is with the greatest humility, cognisant of the significance of the award, and with gratitude for China’s friendship and support throughout my career, that I am privileged to accept the honorary professorship.
“This award is further evidence of the enduring friendship between South Africa and China, a strategic partnership in which the Beijing Jiaotong University could play an even more important role that I am determined to help facilitate,” Nzimande said.
The Minister said the university is a model of excellence in collaboration and innovation. This is demonstrated by the success in combining its capacities in transport systems, information and communication technologies, as well as the economics and management sciences, to support China’s progress in the development of one of the world’s leading rail networks for both passenger and freight transport.
“I am also eager to learn about Beijing Jiaotong University’s success in combining advanced scientific research and post-graduate programmes, undergraduate studies, as well as vocational training in a holistic manner.”
Over the past 120 years, the Beijing Jiaotong University has developed a comprehensive and coordinated education system, with strength disciplines in information and management, characteristic disciplines in transportation, and other diversified disciplines, including engineering, management, economics, science, liberal arts, law and philosophy.
The university's position in international rankings of world-leading universities and disciplines is steadily on the rise, maintaining its position in the top 500 in the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU).
Currently, the university has 16 888 undergraduate students, 2 763 Doctoral students, 9 933 Master's students, and 3 389 adult college students. The total number of international exchange students amounts to 1 142.
The Departments of Higher Education and Training, and Science and Innovation have congratulated the Minister on his conferral of the honorary professorship. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 11/07/2023 - 10:08
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In the age of digital information, the pursuit of knowledge and spiritual growth has taken on exciting new dimensions. It’s within this ever-expanding digital realm that you can embark on a profound journey of exploration and discovery in the realm of Torah studies. This comprehensive collection of resources offers an invaluable array designed to deepen …
Two appear in court for Phala Phala farm robbery
Two people have appeared in the Bela-Bela Magistrates’ Court on charges related to the Phala Phala farm robbery.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the two - Imanuwela David (39) and Froliana Joseph (30) – are facing charges including conspiracy to commit housebreaking with intent to steal and theft, and money laundering.
It is alleged that some US$580 000 was stolen during the robbery at the farmed owned by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Regional Spokesperson, Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi, said the two were arrested on Sunday and Monday.
“The investigations revealed that between 1 January 2020, the accused persons conspired to commit housebreaking with intent to steal and theft at Phala Phala farm, and on 8 January 2020, David, with two others, entered Stokkiesdraai farm, believing that it was Phala Phala farm. They broke and entered but nothing was stolen.
“The following night, they located Phala Phala farm, where they broke, entered and stole US$580 000. The matter has been postponed to 10 November 2023 for… David to arrange for legal representation and for a formal bail application,” Malabi-Dzhangi said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 11/07/2023 - 13:29
November 2023: Get ready for an electrifying FAME Week Africa 2024! Building upon the resounding success of the 2023 edition, FAME Week Africa returns in 2024, and it’s set to be bigger, better, and more exhilarating than ever before. FAME Week Africa, the ultimate stage for celebrating Africa’s exceptional talents in film, television, animation, and …
Andrew Maren, founder and CEO of Fintech company ProfitShare Partners, is giving entrepreneurs who lack access to funding an opportunity to succeed by cutting through the red tape that so often leaves small and medium enterprises (SMEs) hamstrung. “The failure rate of start-up businesses is high,” notes Maren, with around half failing to make it …
Celebrating our teachers
By Nomonde Mnukwa
Most of us have stories about a teacher or teachers who have had a great influence in our lives. These teachers not only taught us in class but were instrumental in instilling good values and became our mentors and counsellors. Throughout our history, teachers have taken the lead in inspiring generations of students to be the best they can be and have contributed to building an informed society.
The hard work and important role played by teachers should be celebrated throughout the year and not only in October when we commemorate National Teachers’ Month. Currently thousands of learners are busy writing the 2023 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams, under the watchful eye of teachers, who have helped to prepare them for the final leg of their school career, and who continue to play a crucial part in government’s effort to reverse the legacy of apartheid education we inherited in 1994.
It is no secret that the apartheid government denied both black teachers and learners quality education and provided them with limited resources. Hendrik Verwoerd who was the architect of apartheid wanted black people to be made "hewers of wood and drawers of water" irrespective of their abilities and aspirations. The policies of the apartheid government affected not only learners but the quality of teachers as well.
As government, we are encouraged that we have since 1994 made progress in addressing the educational inequalities we inherited. We have successfully merged the racially separate education departments and ensured that both learners and teachers are provided with necessary resources to adequately prepare for the future.
We are encouraged that over 800 000, mostly full-time pupils in 2023, have registered for the NSC exams. The increase in the number of candidates did not happen by chance but as a result of years of planning and hard work by committed teachers who want nothing but the best for their learners.
Government salutes teachers who continue to go the extra mile and contribute in improving the quality of education in the country. We also wish the Class of 2023 well over the next few weeks and into the future.
Teachers are our greatest assets and as government we will continue to recognise them for their outstanding work. For instance, in October this year, we held the National Teaching Awards in Thaba Tshwane, Pretoria where teachers received awards for their excellence and they represented the diverse nature of schools across the country in a variety of categories.
These included though not limited to, Excellence in Grade R Teaching, Excellence in Primary School Teaching, Excellence in Secondary School Teaching, Excellence in Secondary School Leadership as well as the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Delivering the keynote address at the event, Deputy President Paul Mashatile highlighted the important role teachers play in developing a society. “Educators play a critical role in building the foundations upon which every society exists.” He added: “The task of a teacher is manifold – not only are you imparting knowledge, but you are also shaping characters, instilling values, and crafting the future leaders of our country.”
The awards took place after the release of the country’s ten-year review on the implementation of the National Development Plan (NDP). The NDP is our collective plan to build a prosperous South Africa as envisioned in the Constitution.
The review shows that South Africa has made notable progress in improving access to education and redressing the injustices of apartheid. We have expanded support for Early Childhood Development Centres, provided ICT equipment and connectivity that will prepare learners for the 4th Industrial Revolution and daily meals to over 9 million learners through the National School Nutrition Programme. This has resulted in close to 100 per cent attendance by children until at least the age of 15.
We have also exceeded the NDP target of 190 000 Bachelor level passes set for 2024. In 2021, 256 031 (36,4 per cent) learners obtained a Bachelor level pass. This achievement is thanks to hard working teachers who go above and beyond in their work and give their time without question.
Although the quality of education has improved when compared with other middle-income countries, the review reveals that we need to redouble our efforts in order to compete with the best in the world.
As government, we have given priority to some of the shortcomings highlighted in the review to ensure that we live up to our commitment to improve the lives of people through education. We are moving with speed to provide school infrastructure and ensure appropriate sanitation across the country.
Since 2018, 2 871 schools have been provided with sanitation facilities through the Sanitation Appropriate for Education programme, known as SAFE programme while 15,000 appropriate toilets were also constructed at 1,047 schools through the Accelerated Schools Infrastructure Delivery Initiative – ASIDI. About 511 schools are at various stages of implementation and DBE plans to provide these with sanitation facilities by end of the 2023/24 financial year.
We appeal to learners to look after infrastructure in their schools and to refrain from destroying, vandalising or burning schools. The destruction of educational infrastructure disadvantages our children and undermines the country’s effort to provide quality education.
We all have the collective responsibility to honour the legacy of teachers who ensure that every child is educated irrespective of background or circumstances.
*Mnukwa is the Acting Director-General of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)
Matona
Tue, 11/07/2023 - 15:39
In today’s fast-paced business world, managing and streamlining document processes is a top priority for organisations of all sizes. With the advent of technology, traditional paper-based document management is becoming obsolete, making way for more efficient and secure solutions. Document Management Systems and Document Management Software have revolutionised the way businesses handle their documents, and …
Environmentalists challenge road extension that threatens endangered Western Leopard Toads
The National Disaster Management Centre in its latest Circular declared the September floods as a National Disaster for the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces. “We are pleased with this declaration, as it now enables all three spheres of government to work together to fund and repair the damage left in the wake of the unprecedented rains experienced over the Heritage Day Long Weekend in September,” Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning said in response.
Minister Bredell said the disaster classification makes it possible for the provincial government to approach the National Disaster Management Centre for relief funds to support the work needed to recover and repair damages suffered to public infrastructure such as buildings, roads, bridges, and water networks.
The damage assessments for the September floods are calculated at R441 million for provincial infrastructure and a further R154million for municipal damages. “We will now request the National Disaster Management Centre to approach National Treasury with these numbers. There is no certainty on how much or when we will receive any support from the national government. The provincial government will reprioritise existing budgets and continue with our own recovery efforts as best we can,” Minister Bredell said.
According to the latest figures from the provincial Department of Infrastructure, only 22 roads remain closed as repairs are prioritised for roads that connect communities and roads that are vital for economic activity. In the aftermath of the floods, both the N1 and N2 were closed, together with more than 150 other roads.
The Provincial Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning has so far received 238 applications to do emergency repairs in rivers and streams that under normal conditions would require lengthy environmental approvals. The department has already finalised 196 of these applications making use of Section 30A of the National Environmental Management Act, which allows for verbal approval in an emergency to carry out listed or specified activities to prevent or contain further damages to affected areas.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Western Cape Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, South Africa.
The following remarks were delivered by the DA Shadow Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Emma Louise Powell MP, during a sitting in Parliament this afternoon: Madam Speaker, the Democratic Alliance stands in solidarity with both Palestinians and Israelis who seek a two-state solution. We reject any sentiment that seeks to annihilate either Israel or …
Introduction: Running a business comes with its fair share of risks, which is why insurance is a crucial part of safeguarding your investment. In South Africa, there are several insurance solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses. Whether you are looking to protect your business partners, key employees, or mitigate contingent liabilities, there …
Empowering women: Turning the tide on GBV
Throughout our history, organised South African women have proven to be a force to be reckoned with by rising above painful circumstances and empowering themselves to create a brighter future for our nation.
The powerful impact of women on our nation was demonstrated on the 9th of August 1956 when 20 000 South African women marched against discriminatory apartheid laws.
Thanks in a large part to the resilience of women, the pass laws were later abolished and it was proven that when “you strike a woman, you strike a rock”. Today we applaud the strength, determination and bravery of the women who came before us. Many were harassed, detained and died in their quest for freedom. Their selfless actions helped to pave the path for our democracy and its manifold opportunities.
Since 1994, we have made great strides in gender equality, inclusion and representation of women in all spheres of government, business and civil society. Successive democratic administrations have also sought to empower women through our Constitution, legislation and progressive policies.
Though we have accelerated opportunities for women, there is still much work to be done and one of the major challenges that persists and affects women is Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).
Considering the harmful effects of GBVF and the alarming rate of these cases, it prompts the question of what is being done to overcome GBVF.
The need to empower GBVF survivors led to the establishment of several Thuthuzela care centres across the nation. These centres are part of our toolkit and actions to help prevent, respond to and support rape victims.
Through these facilities, individuals can report rape cases, receive medical assistance and counselling, open a police case and prepare for court. In this way, these centres give power and hope back to survivors by prioritising their needs and helping them heal from past trauma.
Another government initiative helping victims rise from pain into power is the victim empowerment programme, which supports victims through shelters, counselling and life skills that facilitate behavioural change.
The victim empowerment programme is aimed at eliminating all forms of violence against women and children through a collaborative approach.
Given the complex nature of GBVF, government has been working to strengthen the entire criminal justice system. In this regard, President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2022 signed into law three pieces of legislation to strengthen the criminal justice system, promote accountability across the state and support survivors.
The pieces of legislation includes tightening bail conditions, strengthening parole conditions, ensuring consequences for contravening a protection order, as well as increasing the minimum sentence for perpetrators of sexual offences.
Through stricter legislation, enhanced policing powers that enable peace officers to arrest perpetrators without a warrant at the scene of domestic violence, and the collaboration of the NPA and courts, women are empowered to take action as we strive to bring perpetrators to book.
Government’s efforts towards tackling the scourge of GBVF continues and currently all avenues are being explored to make attaining protection orders easier.
Alongside government efforts, we also applaud the efforts of the private sector in tackling GBVF. Through the private sector GBVF response fund, we have raised millions to support GBVF prevention programmes, forums, shelters and welfare organisations.
We urge all entities and individuals to continue to work towards eradicating GBVF and to act when they see or know something. One of the ways individuals can assist is through the Bright Sky SA initiative (free mobile application), which helps assess whether someone may be in an abusive situation through completion of a risk assessment questionnaire, as an endeavour to protect them.
We call upon everyone to report GBVF cases to their local police station, toll-free Crime Stop number: 086 00 10111, or via the GBV command centre: 0800 428 428.
Together we can tackle the scourge of GBVF and build the society we want to live in.
*Mnukwa is the Acting Director-General of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)
Matona
Tue, 11/07/2023 - 15:51
Introduction A breast cancer diagnosis is a life-altering event that requires courage, resilience, and a strong support system. While the journey through treatment and recovery can be challenging, it is crucial to stay vigilant in the years following your initial diagnosis and treatment and schedule your mammogram at Kempton Park Mammography. Post-treatment monitoring is essential …
Introduction Garage door opener installation are often overlooked when it comes to home improvement and maintenance. However, they play a significant role in the overall aesthetics and functionality of your home. Wooden garage doors, in particular, add a touch of elegance and timeless charm to your property. In this blog, we will explore the benefits …
The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs has received a briefing and noted the Electoral Commission Amendment Bill, a Private Members Bill introduced by Dr Annelie Lotriet MP, and has resolved to allow members time to consult further on the Bill.
The objective of the Bill is to amend the Electoral Commission Act, 1996, to clarify that the President may declare a national referendum and to provide that a Premier of a province may call a provincial referendum in their province. The Bill also intends to repeal the Referendums Act, 1983.
The committee believes this decision will also give the Department of Home Affairs and the Electoral Commission of South Africa time to assess the Bill and make meaningful contributions to it and how it impacts on their operations. Following this consultation period, the committee will schedule the Bill for deliberation and further processing.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
President Ramaphosa appoints Judges to High Court Divisions
President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Judges to the Supreme Court of Appeal, the Gauteng Division of the High Court and the KwaZulu-Natal Division of the High Court.
The President appointed the following Judges in terms of Section 174(6) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, and on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission:
(i) Madam Justice Fayeeza Kathree-Setiloane as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal, with effect from 01 December 2023, in an existing vacancy;
(ii) Madam Justice Anna Maleshane Kgoele as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal, with effect from 01 December 2023, in an existing vacancy;
(iii) Adv Soraya Khatija Hassim SC as a Judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy;
(iv) Adv Omphemetse Mooki SC as a Judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy;
(v) Adv Jacobus Johannes Strijdom SC as a Judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy;
(vi) Adv Brad Christopher Wanless SC as a Judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy; and
(vii) Prof Mbuzeni Johnson Mathenjwa as a Judge of the KwaZulu-Natal Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 November 2023 in an existing vacancy.
Furthermore, President Ramaphosa has appointed Justice Mogomotsi Edwin Molahlehi as Deputy Judge President of the Labour and Labour Appeal Courts with effect from 1 November 2023 in an existing vacancy.
The appointment of Justice Molahlehi was done in terms of Section 153 (1)(b) of the Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act 66 of 1995), acting on the advice of NEDLAC and the Judicial Service Commission and after consultation with the Minister of Justice and the Judge President of the Labour Court.
In terms of Section 169(1) of the Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act 66 of 1995), acting on the advice of NEDLAC and the Judicial Service Commission and after consultation with the Minister of Justice and the Judge President of the Labour Appeal Court, President Ramaphosa has appointed:
(i) Madam Justice Madeline Portia Nompi Nkutha-Nkontwana as a Judge of the Labour Appeal Court with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy;
(ii) Madam Justice Katherine Mary Savage as a Judge of the Labour Appeal Court with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy; and
(iii) Mr Justice André Johann Van Niekerk with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy.
Additionally, President Ramaphosa has, in terms of Section 153(4) of the Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act 66 of 1995), acting on the advice of NEDLAC and the Judicial Service Commission and after consultation with the Minister of Justice and the Judge President of the Labour Court, appointed the following judges:
(i) Adv Kelsey Allen-Yaman as a Judge of the Labour Court with effect from 1 December 2023, in an existing vacancy;
(ii) Mr Reynaud Neil Daniels as a Judge of the Labour Court with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy; and
(iii) Mr Molatelo Robert Makhura as a Judge of the Labour Court with effect from 1 January 2024, in an existing vacancy.
“These appointments will ensure continuity in the administration of justice at all levels and centres of the judiciary.
“President Ramaphosa wishes the newly appointed justices well as they take up their new roles in upholding the rule of law in the country,” the Presidency said in a statement. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 11/07/2023 - 13:32
Real estate choices have a material impact on achieving ESG goals, particularly climate change reduction, according to leading provider of corporate real estate services in Africa, Cushman & Wakefield | BROLL. With buildings known to have one of the highest impacts on carbon emissions, the real estate industry plays a pivotal role in addressing compliance, …
Dear Editor The DA notes with concern that operational deficiencies within Eskom and Transnet have inflicted a R200 billion loss on South Africa’s economy this fiscal year as confirmed by SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter. The medium-term budget policy statement (MTBPS), presented by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, echoed this sentiment in which a R56.8 billion revenue …
Introducing Sole Mandate: Revolutionizing Real Estate Advertising for Agents Western Cape, 07 November 2023 – Real estate agents in South Africa have long grappled with a common adversary—the dominance of a few powerful advertising platforms that have dictated pricing, limiting the industry’s growth and opportunities. But a new, visionary player is here to challenge the …
Dear Editor The Minister of Employment and Labour, Thulas Nxesi, should respond to the explosive allegation that he – along with two other Ministers – attempted to solicit a 10 percent kickback on the dodgy R5 billion Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF)/ Thuja Capital job-creation deal. Thuja Capital CEO (and former chair of Productivity SA) Mthunzi …
In a ground-breaking development, and as part of the ongoing commitment of the Western Cape Government to bolster and ensure a strong climate-resilient future for the province, the Western Cape Departments of Agriculture and of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, yesterday, 7 November 2023, signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the School for Climate Studies of Stellenbosch University.
The School for Climate Studies, which was launched in 2021, creates a transdisciplinary capacity to combine the climate-related knowledge systems of its faculties, the public sector's climate policies and initiatives, the private sector's climate redress and innovation capacities and the social impact mission of the university in both academic and applied ways – all in support of the just transition to a climate-resilient society and a sustainable, low-carbon economy.
According to Ministers Ivan Meyer and Anton Bredell, co-leaders of Climate Change governance in the Western Cape, the signing of this agreement is testimony to the Western Cape government's drive towards climate change resilience.
Minister Meyer said, “Climate change modelling shows that annual temperatures are rising, and the number of colder days will decrease. Droughts, floods and heat waves will become more regular, and these trends highlight the need for a coordinated response from government, tertiary institutions, private sector and the whole of society to mitigate the impact of climate change.”
“The MOA underscores the value of partnerships and collaboration to advance the Western Cape as a leading province in job creation, economic development and capacity building across disciplines. Guided by the Western Cape Climate Change Response Strategy and the SmartAgri plan an effective response to climate change amidst global and local disaster events is now urgent,” continued Minister Meyer.
Minister Bredell highlights that the MOA will provide an enabling platform to pursue local and international research and capacity-building opportunities (including joint projects) to build the climate change knowledge base in the Western Cape.
Minister Bredell commented, “Climate change projections for the Western Cape suggest a likelihood of more frequent and more intense extreme weather events which threatens food security and economic growth in South Africa and the Western Cape. The MOA will enable the exchange of scientific and institutional expertise within the partnership and with global partners to drive a more rapid transition towards climate change adaptation and mitigation and a climate-resilient province”.
At the signing ceremony, Prof Sibusiso Moyo, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: of Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies, SU said: “The signing of this MOA highlights the important role of the university in the continuous development of the province. Research conducted by the School for Climate Studies will be pivotal in the development and application of climate-related solutions and technologies that address issues on the broader social agenda, which include job creation, skills training, poverty alleviation and inclusivity.”
“The Western Cape Government is looking at climate change's impact on its three strategic priorities, namely, jobs, safety, dignity and well-being. By doing so, we are mainstreaming climate change in the business of the Western Cape Government. The goal is a green, low-carbon and climate-resilient province by 2050”, concluded Minister Meyer.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Western Cape Government: Department of the Premier.