MyZA

News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff

You are here: Home / Archives for Accommodation

Accommodation

KZN flood victims moved to temporary accommodation

Location: News

KZN flood victims moved to temporary accommodation

Victims of the recent Durban floods have been moved to temporary emergency accommodation, the Ministry of Human Settlements said on Friday.

This as the province of KwaZulu-Natal has been experiencing inclement weather.

A joint operation by the three spheres of government, namely the national and provincial Departments of Human Settlements, and eThekwini Municipality saw 47 households being moved to a temporary emergency accommodation on Thursday.

In its statement, the department said residents were moved from a mass care centre.

Earlier in the week, Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane deployed a team of officials with a clear mandate for an urgent temporary solution to be sought to assist the affected households. 

READ | Call for urgency in assisting KZN flood victims

Meanwhile, the Minister has noted the scale of the disaster and commended NGOs such as the Red Cross for partnering with the government to assist those in need. 

In the new week, (04-05 March 2025), Minister Simelane will evaluate the responses and interventions made thus far to alleviate the situation of the victims of the disaster. 

She will be joined by KZN MEC for Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma and Mayor of eThekwini Municipality, Cyril Xaba, in visiting the impacted areas. -SAnews.gov.za 
 

Edwin
Fri, 02/28/2025 - 12:16
 81 views

Read moreKZN flood victims moved to temporary accommodation

TVET sector issues placed under the spotlight 

Location: News

TVET sector issues placed under the spotlight 

Critical issues affecting Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students were at the core of a meeting between Higher Education and Training Minister Dr Nobuhle Nkabane and the South African Technical Vocational Education and Training Student Association (SATVETSA).

Held at Mpumalanga University, the meeting focused on adjustments in TVET student living allowances, payment of 2024 outstanding student allowances, and payment of 2025 student allowances among others.

On the issue of adjustments in TVET student living allowances, it was resolved that parity between TVET and university living allowances should be established while on the matter of the payment of 2024 outstanding student allowances, it was agreed that all outstanding 2024 student allowances will be processed by 25 February.

On the payment of 2025 student allowances, the Minister said allowances for the 2025 academic year will be processed next week, subject to receiving registration data from colleges.

At Monday’s meeting, the payment for student accommodation matter was under the microscope with the resolution being that all outstanding student accommodation fees will be processed by 25 February 2025.

On the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Appeals Process, it was resolved that the Appeals Committee will convene before Friday, 28 February 2025, to finalise all outstanding appeals.

On pending examinations results, the resolution was that the the mop-up process for all pending results will be completed by Wednesday, 26 February and that the process will be followed by Umalusi's approval of the results by Friday, 28 February.

Other issues discussed include the representation on the NSFAS board with the resolution being that SATVETSA will nominate a candidate to represent the TVET sector on the NSFAS board.

“The resolutions … represent a significant step towards addressing the systemic issues within the TVET sector,” said the Minister in a statement on Thursday adding that the Ministry, in collaboration with SATVETSA and other stakeholders, is committed to implementing these resolutions without delay.

“The Ministry acknowledges students' frustrations and remains dedicated to fostering a functional, fair, and transparent TVET system. Regular progress updates will be provided to ensure that commitments made in this agreement translate into real, tangible improvements in the lives of TVET students,” it said. -SAnews.gov.za 
 

Edwin
Fri, 02/28/2025 - 10:38
 56 views

Read moreTVET sector issues placed under the spotlight 

South Africa’s National Astro-Tourism Strategy

Location: News

Department of Science and Innovation, Republic of South Africa
Download logo

On Tuesday, 18 February, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande, supported by Ms. Nomalungelo Gina, Deputy Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, and Ms. Maggie Sotyu, Deputy Minister of Tourism, led the presentation of South Africa's National Astro-Tourism Strategy to Parliament.

Last year, the Minister of Tourism, Ms. Patricia De Lille, tabled the National Astro-Tourism Strategy in Cabinet. Subsequent to this, in September last year, Cabinet approved this Strategy and in the same month, Minister De Lille and Minister Nzimande presided over the launch of this Strategy in Carnarvon in the Northern Cape.

This past Tuesday, this Strategy was presented at a joint sitting of the Portfolio Committees of Science, Technology and Innovation and Tourism.

In highlighting the strategic importance of astronomy and tourism to South Africa, Minister Nzimande stated that “South Africa is fast becoming one of the leading nations in the discipline of astronomy and this is why in August last year, we hosted the prestigious General Assembly of the International Astronomical Union. This was first time this prestigious gathering was hosted on the African continent.

Equally, we also have a very robust tourism sector as a country, which is a major contributor to GDP and is expected to grow significantly over the next 5 to 10 years.”

Minister Nzimande also used the briefing to highlight some of South Africa's most notable investments in astronomy infrastructure, during the democratic era, which include the 10-metre Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) in Sutherland, which is the largest optical telescope in the Southern Hemisphere.

The MeerKAT telescope in Carnarvon, which is a precursor to the SKA project, which he said was “going to be South Africa's single biggest scientific infrastructure.”

Outlining the benefits of these investments, Minister Nzimande indicated that "the investments in these high calibre scientific instruments in astronomy enabled an exponential increase in the number of South African astronomers from 60 (only 5 of them were radio astronomers) to about 300 in the last 30 years.”

The Minister Nzimande also used the opportunity to explain what astro-tourism was and further outlined the objectives of South Africa's Astro-Tourism Strategy.

The Minister stated that “… science tourism involves experiences enjoyed when visiting scientific attractions such as scientific landmarks, including museums, laboratories, observatories, and higher educational institutions where research is conducted.

It is also important to realise that astro-tourism is built around the traditions inherited from our ancestors by different ethnic cultures in observing the skies from time immemorial. Astro-tourism therefore draws heavily from the vast and untapped reservoirs of our indigenous knowledge systems.

Astro-tourism also encompasses all offerings such as observatories, telescopes, museums, planetariums, meteorite sites, visitor centres, amateur astronomy clubs, stargazing, tour-guides, astro-routes, and accommodation establishments, etc.”

In outlining the strategic importance of the Astro-Tourism Strategy, Minister Nzimande stated that “We regard science and tourism as mutually reinforcing and therefore building on our competitive advantages in astronomy and tourism, we seek to use the Astro-Tourism Strategy to achieve the following:

  • Enhance the performance of South Africa's astronomy tourism sector through infrastructure developments and improvements, optimal functioning of various streams of astronomy with tourism offerings and boosting transformation by enhancing the livelihoods of local communities;
  • Position South Africa as a world class Astro tourism destination that will yield sustainable benefit-sharing opportunities by maximising appropriate investments, improving marketing efforts, and enhancing visitor experience in South Africa;
  • Educate communities about the importance of preserving our dark skies and radio silence as this is a geographic advantage that needs to be protected for astrotourism to thrive; and
  • Most importantly, we also seek to use this strategy to drive meaningful socio-economic development within poor and rural communities, through science tourism.”

The Strategy is anchored on three pillars, which are: indigenous celestial narratives and human capacity development; infrastructure development; and inclusive tourism growth and partnerships – and requires an estimated budget of over R352 million.

The implementation of the Astro-Tourism Strategy is the joint responsibility of the Departments of Science, Technology and Innovation and Tourism, which have established a Steering Committee that comprises officials from both departments, the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism.

The DSTI's entity, the National Research Foundation (NRF) and its sub entities the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) and South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO), also form part of this Steering Committee.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Science and Innovation, Republic of South Africa.

Read moreSouth Africa’s National Astro-Tourism Strategy

KZN motorists urged to be extra vigilant on the roads

Location: News

KZN motorists urged to be extra vigilant on the roads

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport has urged motorists to be extra vigilant on the roads, as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) warned of prolonged rainfall in various parts of the province.

“We are also requesting those who are involved in school transport to always remember that they are transporting future leaders. They need to avoid speeding, as roads are slippery when wet,” Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, said on Thursday.

According to the Yellow Level 2 warning issued by SAWS, widespread showers and thundershowers are expected over the south-western part of the province tonight.

Rainfall accumulation of at least 40 millimetres (mm) is expected over the south-western parts of the province today, which may lead to flooding and localised impacts.

The districts affected by severe weather include uMgungundlovu, Amajuba, uThukela, eThekwini, Zululand, Ilembe and Umkhanyakude.

The MEC also reported that a roving team from Human Settlements is on standby to ensure quick intervention if there is any destruction of houses. 

“There are families that were affected by prolonged rainfall that started on the 1st of January 2025. We are ready to hand over contractors to build temporary accommodation for these families.

“Importantly, today we are in Alfred Duma Local Municipality as part of our efforts aimed at speeding up the construction of road networks in various parts of the province. We will introduce the contractor that will start the rehabilitation of the P32 [road], which starts from KwaMaphimbane to Uitval,” Duma said.

New HOD appointed

In a bid to respond with speed to the needs of citizens, Duma recently announced the appointment of a new Head of Department (HOD) of Human Settlements, Sihle Maxwell Mbili.

Mbili is not new to the Department of Human Settlements, as he worked as Chief Director - Corporate Services in the department. 

“He is the former Municipal Manager of Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality, where he developed a 20-year-plan. Under his leadership, Ray Nkonyeni achieved clean audits and was singled out as the best-run municipality for many years. 

“He was also selected as the best municipal manager in the province and was instrumental in the building of 4 000 houses in the municipality. He achieved this by ensuring closer working relations with the Department of Human Settlements,” Duma said. – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Thu, 02/20/2025 - 16:14
 227 views

Read moreKZN motorists urged to be extra vigilant on the roads

NSFAS urged to act swiftly against student exploitation by landlords

Location: News

NSFAS urged to act swiftly against student exploitation by landlords

Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister, Buti Manamela, says the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) must act swiftly against the exploitation of vulnerable students by landlords.

This follows media reports that some landlords demand sexual favours from students in exchange for accommodation.

Manamela said the exploitation of vulnerable students by landlords was deplorable and deeply worrying.

“I welcome the strong statement by NSFAS condemning these actions and the decisive steps to investigate, blacklist, and terminate the services of any implicated landlords,” Manamela said.

He emphasised the need for greater accountability and oversight in student accommodation.

He said institutions, including accommodation provider associations, NSFAS, and the Department of Higher Education and Training must work together to ensure that students are housed in safe, dignified environments, free from exploitation and abuse.

Manamela urged the affected students to report cases of exploitation immediately to their institutions, NSFAS and law enforcement.

“We will not tolerate anyone who preys on students,” he said.

Progress on student registration and financial aid 

While the reports of landlord abuse are disturbing, Manamela acknowledged that the overall student registration process for 2025 has been largely smooth, with minor glitches that are being attended to.

NSFAS has taken measures to ensure that funded students are registered without financial barriers, including: 
• No upfront registration fees for NSFAS-funded students at public universities and TVET colleges.
• NSFAS close-out project students (awaiting outstanding fees from previous years) must be allowed to re-enrol, with institutions instructed to submit their details to NSFAS.
•  NSFAS Loan Scheme applicants who qualify should be allowed to register and secure accommodation while documentation is finalised.
•  Students with outstanding 2024 allocations should be permitted to register and graduate, with NSFAS committed to settling fees.

“We acknowledge concerns over funding delays and are actively working with NSFAS and institutions to resolve these issues as quickly as possible,” Manamela assured.

Monitoring the academic year

As delegated by the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, to assess the progress of the academic year and ensure that student concerns are addressed, the Deputy Minister will over the next two week visit Limpopo, North West, Northern Cape and Gauteng.

“These visits will give us an opportunity to engage directly with students, institutional leadership, and NSFAS officials to ensure that registration, accommodation, and financial aid issues are properly addressed,” Manamela said.

Students in universities, including Technical, Vocational, Education and Training College (TVET) colleges, and Community Education and Training (CET) colleges have been urged to report unsafe accommodation, if they are experiencing exploitation or unsafe conditions, to their institution’s student affairs office, and to NSFAS helpline: 0800 067 327 / info@nsfas.org.za.

“If you are struggling with registration or NSFAS-related funding issues, contact NSFAS servicing teams deployed at institutions or engage your SRC for assistance. Most institutions provide counselling services and wellness programs. Students are encouraged to use these resources.

“Our students should never have to endure exploitation, abuse, or barriers to their education. We will continue working with all stakeholders to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for all,” Manamela said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK
Tue, 02/18/2025 - 10:37
 199 views

Read moreNSFAS urged to act swiftly against student exploitation by landlords

Over R200m invested in W Cape student accommodation

Location: News

Over R200m invested in W Cape student accommodation

The Department of Human Settlements -- through the National Housing Finance Cooperation (NHFC) -- has announced its funding support for two 100% black-owned developers to provide student accommodation in the Western Cape.

The funding is meant to alleviate the student accommodation challenge in that province.

Addressing the debate on the State of the Nation Address (SONA) held in Parliament on Wednesday, Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane announced that the first project in Belhar has received a funding facility of R40 million to construct accommodation that can host 136 beds.

“The second project in Parrow for a building that started out as an affordable housing development programme, which received a R170 million facility, has since been converted into student accommodation with 927 beds,” Simelane said.

The department, through the National Housing Finance Cooperation, has also partnered with some of the Traditional Authorities in the provinces, with a number of projects currently underway in the eThekwini, Umkhanyakude and Umgungundlovu District Municipalities.

In Inanda, north of Durban, Inkosi Mqiqi Ngcobo is allocating pieces of land to residents to build their homes with support from First Home Finance (FHF), with 59 houses completed, and 60 anticipated by the end of financial year.

In Ndwedwe Local Municipality, under ILembe District Municipality, Ngcobo -- from Umlamula Traditional Council, Ozwathini -- has also allocated pieces of land for households to build their homes with FHF assistance, with nine completed houses and 18 at enrolment stage.

Over 5 000 first time home buyers assisted

The Minister also highlighted progress on the provision of subsidies for first time home buyers, who were proceed out of the market, as per President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call during 2024 State of the Nation Address.

Simelane said the department exceeded all the targets in the 2023/24 financial year, with 5 082 households being assisted through the First Home Finance.

The Finance Linked Individual Subsidy Programme (FLISP), now known as the First Home Finance (FHF) Programme assists qualifying citizens whose household income is from R3 501 up to R22 000 per month.

The Minister said the outlook for the financial year 2024/25, indicates that the targets will be met in the first six months of the current financial year, with the entire budget used to support the qualifying beneficiaries to own a home for the first time in their lives.

“Going forward, the department plans to disburse 140 000 gap market subsidies through First Home Finance (FHF) and other financial mechanisms, to enable middle-income households to access housing near economic centres. This programme fits in with the future of human settlement policy trajectory in that citizens can buy houses for the first time on their own aided by government,” Simelane said.

Spotlight on provision of title deeds

The Minister announced the department will focus on the provision of title deeds to the citizens by simplifying and streamlining the issuing of title deeds and introducing a special dispensation, where the municipalities could ask the department of Cooperative Governance to exempt specific cases from the provisions of Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA), in respect to the undeclared townships.

“This step will assist in the acceleration of land tenure security and enable homeowners to leverage property assets for wealth creation, restoring dignity, the department plans to issue 80 000 title deeds in the five years.

“We will also meet the targets the President spoke about regarding provision of serviced stands by earmarking a portion of funds available in the Human Settlements Grants across all provinces and metros in the coming financial year,” Simelane said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 02/14/2025 - 10:36

62 views
Read moreOver R200m invested in W Cape student accommodation

Call for calm amid accommodation situation at higher learning institutions

Location: News

Call for calm amid accommodation situation at higher learning institutions

The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education has raised concern over the ongoing accommodation crisis at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and the Nelson Mandela University (NMU).

This comes as hundreds of students have been left stranded and forced to sleep wherever they find shelter.

In a statement on Tuesday, Higher Education Committee Chairperson, Tebogo Letsie, said the scenes at CPUT and NMU were deeply troubling, particularly following the committee’s recent oversight visits to institutions in the North West and Gauteng provinces to assess the state of readiness for the 2025 academic year.

“While institutions assured the committee of their preparedness, the current crisis underscores the urgent need for greater scrutiny of these assurances. The systemic failure to address recurring student accommodation shortages reflects a broader institutional and governmental neglect of student welfare,” Letsie said.

The chairperson has also condemned the involvement of private security forces at CPUT, which resulted in violent clashes and injuries to students.

“The use of excessive force is unacceptable. Security personnel must prioritise de-escalation and protection, not repression. Students advocating for their right to education deserve empathy, not violence,” Letsie said.

National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Administrator, Freeman Nomvalo, said the scheme has reached out to accommodation providers who have not received payment and has established payment arrangements with them.

Last week, the NSFAS called on accommodation providers, or landlords, not to demand a deposit or top-up payment from NSFAS-funded students.

This after some landlords asked NSFAS-funded students to pay a deposit or top-up payment in order to get access to the approved private accommodation.

According to the Standardised Fixed-Term Lease Agreement, the rent will be paid monthly to the accommodation provider (lessor) by NSFAS, on behalf of the lessee (NSFAS funded student), in accordance with the NSFAS terms and conditions for private accommodation providers’ participation on the student accommodation portal.

The agreement states that the lessor may not require or permit the lessee to pay a deposit, top-up payments, or any other forms of payment to the lessor, or any other person in connection with this agreement, including payment of rent, while awaiting payment from NSFAS.

The lessor shall have no recourse against the lessee for any default in the payment of rent by NSFAS.

The NSFAS terms and conditions for private accommodation providers’ participation on the student accommodation portal also states that: “Where the NSFAS-funded student is defunded due to an incorrect decision by NSFAS, the student will not be liable for payment of any arrear rent to the accommodation provider, up until the date of being defunded.” – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 02/12/2025 - 09:32

11 views
Read moreCall for calm amid accommodation situation at higher learning institutions

CPUT and NMU Accommodation ‘Challenges’

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
Download logo

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Mr Tebogo Letsie, has expressed profound concern over the ongoing accommodation crisis at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and the Nelson Mandela University (NMU). This crisis has left hundreds of students desperate and forced to sleep wherever they find shelter.

“The scenes at CPUT and NMU are deeply troubling, particularly following the committee's recent oversight visits to institutions in North West and Gauteng Provinces to assess readiness for the 2025 academic year,” said Mr Letsie.

“While institutions assured the committee of their preparedness, the current crisis underscores the urgent need for greater scrutiny of these assurances. The systemic failure to address recurring student accommodation shortages reflects a broader institutional and governmental neglect of student welfare.”

The Chairperson condemned the involvement of private security forces at CPUT, which resulted in violent clashes and injuries to students. “The use of excessive force is unacceptable. Security personnel must prioritise de-escalation and protection, not repression. Students advocating for their right to education deserve empathy, not violence,” said Mr Letsie.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

Read moreCPUT and NMU Accommodation ‘Challenges’

Accommodation providers urged to stop demanding deposit from NSFAS funded students

Location: News

Accommodation providers urged to stop demanding deposit from NSFAS funded students

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has urged landlords not to demand a deposit or top-up payment from NSFAS-funded students.

This comes after NSFAS received reports about some accommodation providers who require NSFAS-funded students to pay a deposit or top-up payment in order to get access to the approved private accommodation.

“NSFAS reminds accommodation providers of the compulsory conditions, as provided by the Standardised Fixed-Term Lease Agreement between the private accommodation providers and NSFAS funded students,” NSFAS said in a statement on Thursday.

The Standardised Fixed-Term Lease Agreement states that the rent will be paid monthly to the accommodation provider (lessor) by NSFAS, on behalf of the lessee (NSFAS funded student), in accordance with the NSFAS terms and conditions for private accommodation providers’ participation on the student accommodation portal.

“The lessor may not require or permit the lessee to pay a deposit, top-up payments, or any other forms of payment to the lessor, or any other person in connection with this agreement, including payment of rent, while awaiting payment from NSFAS. The lessor shall have no recourse against the lessee for any default in the payment of rent by NSFAS,” the agreement reads.

The NSFAS terms and conditions for private accommodation providers’ participation on the student accommodation portal also states that: “Where the NSFAS-funded student is defunded due to an incorrect decision by NSFAS, the student will not be liable for payment of any arrear rent to the accommodation provider, up until the date of being defunded.”

NSFAS explained that where the NSFAS-funded student chooses to continue occupying the leased premises, notwithstanding being defunded by NSFAS, the student will be liable for payment of rent to the lessor from the date of being defunded.

“Where the student is defunded by NSFAS due to a misrepresentation by the lessee/guardian at any stage, the student must immediately vacate the leased property; and will be liable for payment of all rent due to the accommodation provider.

“Where the student moves, accommodation providers without the prior approval of NSFAS, NSFAS may elect not to pay any rental to the new accommodation provider, and any such rental payments will be for the student own account,” the scheme said.

The scheme emphasised that any dispute arising between the parties regarding the interpretation or implementation of the agreement, must be dealt with in accordance with any dispute resolution procedure determined by NSFAS for this purpose. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 02/07/2025 - 10:35

233 views
Read moreAccommodation providers urged to stop demanding deposit from NSFAS funded students

Government puts shoulder to the wheel to build a thriving economy

Location: News

Government puts shoulder to the wheel to build a thriving economy

Growing the economy and job creation are at the top of the seventh administration’s agenda, President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Thursday.

“We want a nation with a thriving economy that benefits all. To create this virtuous cycle of investment, growth and jobs, we must lift economic growth to above three percent,” the President said, as he delivered the State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Cape Town.

In the first SONA of the seventh administration, the President said government has adopted the Medium-Term Development Plan, which sets out a clear and ambitious programme for the next five years.

The actions contained in the plan advance three strategic priorities: driving inclusive growth and job creation; reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living as well as building a capable, ethical and developmental state.

“To achieve higher levels of economic growth, we are undertaking massive investment in new infrastructure while upgrading and maintaining the infrastructure we have.

“We are engaging local and international financial institutions and investors to unlock R 100 billion in infrastructure financing. A project preparation bid window has been launched to fast-track investment readiness.

“This includes revised regulations for public private partnerships, which will unlock private sector expertise and funds,” the President explained.

Focus on infrastructure

Over the next three years, government will spend more than R940 billion on infrastructure. This includes R375 billion in spending by state owned companies.

“This funding will revitalise our roads and bridges, build dams and waterways, modernise our ports and airports and power our economy. Through the Infrastructure Fund, 12 blended finance projects worth nearly R38 billion have been approved in the last year.

The aim of the Infrastructure Fund is to use committed government funding to leverage much higher levels of private sector investment in public infrastructure. Managed by Infrastructure South Africa, the fund is a portfolio of blended finance projects and programmes. 

“These are projects in water and sanitation, student accommodation, transport, health and energy. Construction of the Mtentu Bridge continues. This bridge will rise above the river between Port Edward and Lusikisiki, and will become the tallest bridge in Africa,” the President said.

The Polihlali Dam will feed 490 million cubic metres of water a year from the Lesotho Highlands into the Vaal River System, securing water supply to several provinces for years to come.

In addition, government is working with international partners to revitalises small harbours and unlock economic opportunities for coastal communities.

“We are steadily removing the obstacles to meaningful and faster growth,” he said.

Operation Vulindlela

As government continues to implement economic reforms through Operation Vulindlela, the President said a new sense of optimism and confidence in the economy has been created.

“We have made progress in rebuilding and restructuring a number of our network industries. We are seeing positive results in the improvement of the functioning of our network industries as well as the investment opportunities that are opening up and are being taken by investors leading to job creation. 

“Working together with business, labour and other social partners we must now finish this work. Over the coming year, we will initiate a second wave of reform to unleash more rapid and inclusive growth,” the President said.

Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms and support economic recovery.

The initiative aims to modernise and transform network industries, including electricity, water, transport and digital communications.

“Our immediate focus is to enable Eskom, Transnet and other state-owned enterprises that are vital to our economy to function optimally. 

“We are repositioning these entities to provide world-class infrastructure while enabling competition in operations, whether in electricity generation, freight rail or port terminals.

“We continue with the fundamental reform of our state-owned enterprises to ensure that they can effectively fulfil their social and economic mandates."

READ | New wave of reforms to propel SA economy

This includes the work underway to put in place a new model to strengthen governance and oversight of public entities. 

“We will ensure public ownership of strategic infrastructure for public benefit while finding innovative ways to attract private investment to improve services and ensure public revenue can be focused on the provision of public services,” the President said.

Meanwhile, government is in the process of establishing a dedicated State-Owned Enterprise (SOE) Reform Unit to coordinate this work. 

Energy Action Plan

“The measures we have implemented through the Energy Action Plan have reduced the severity and frequency of load shedding, with more than 300 days without load shedding since March 2024.

“While the return of load shedding for two days last week was a reminder that our energy supply is still constrained, we remain on a positive trajectory. 

“We now need to put the risk of load shedding behind us once and for all by completing the reform of our energy system to ensure long-term energy security.”

The President said the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act, which came into effect on 1 January, marks the beginning of a new era.
 

READ | President Ramaphosa signs Electricity Regulation Amendment Act into law

The act sets out far-reaching reforms of the country’s electricity sector, including the establishment of a competitive electricity market.

“This year, we will put in place the building blocks of a competitive electricity market. Over time, this will allow multiple electricity generation entities to emerge and compete.

“We will mobilise private sector investment in our transmission network to connect more renewable energy to the grid,” Ramaphosa said.

Rail network

The President said Transnet’s performance has stabilised and is steadily improving.

“We released a Network Statement in December 2024 which, for the first time, will enable private rail operators to access the freight rail system

“Open access to the rail network will allow train operating companies to increase the volume of goods transported by rail, while our network infrastructure remains state owned,” the President said.

This will ensure that South African minerals, vehicles and agricultural produce reach international markets, securing jobs and earning much needed revenue for the fiscus.

New cranes and other port equipment are being commissioned to speed up the loading and unloading of cargo and reduce waiting times for ships at ports. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 02/06/2025 - 21:22

235 views
Read moreGovernment puts shoulder to the wheel to build a thriving economy

NSFAS organises resources for higher learning institutions

Location: News

NSFAS organises resources for higher learning institutions

While institutions are gearing up to welcome dozens of students to their campuses, both new and returning, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is currently preparing for the deployment of resources to institutions across all provinces.

NSFAS said the resources would include servicing administrators, student accommodation officials, as well as graduate interns.

“This is to ensure a smooth start of the 2025 academic year for our beneficiaries. NSFAS Circular 13 of 2024 sent to institutions on 07 January 2025, advised that as part of our student support plans, we will deploy officials to all institutions for a period of two months, from 13 January 2025 until 07 March 2025,” NSFAS said in a statement.

The scheme said it had concluded a graduate recruitment process and appointed graduate interns.

The interns will be deployed alongside the servicing administrators across different institutions to work with financial aid officials on bursary administration daily.

“The deployment and placement of these resources to institutions is aimed at ensuring that for the 2025 academic year, each institution has a resource tasked with assisting students with queries which need NSFAS’ attention. The recruited graduates are currently undergoing formal training,” the scheme said.

Applicants called to submit supporting documents

Meanwhile, NSFAS has called on students who applied for funding to submit supporting documents after receiving communication from the scheme.

“Applicants have 30 days to submit from the day of receiving communication. Applicants must not wait for the deadline, but should submit now,” NSFAS said.

To submit the requested documents, applicants must log into their myNSFAS portal and upload the documents.

“To track their application status, applicants can add NSFAS on WhatsApp 078 519 8006 or use USSD *120*67327# or via email info@nsfas.org.za,” NSFAS said.

The scheme reiterated that qualifying students must not pay any registration fee to the institutions of higher learning, until the process is complete, but “wait for communication from NSFAS on the final decision”.

NSFAS warned applicants against fraudsters who pretend to be NSFAS officials and urged them to report any suspicious messages or calls to the NSFAS ethics and fraud hotline on 0800 007 396.

For more information on NSFAS, applicants can visit https://my.nsfas.org.za/. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 15:30

245 views
Read moreNSFAS organises resources for higher learning institutions

KZN CoGTA calls on matriculants to apply for bursaries

Location: News

KZN CoGTA calls on matriculants to apply for bursaries

The KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has called on those who have completed matric to apply for bursaries offered by the department in the 2025 academic year.

The bursaries are aimed at students who reside within KwaZulu-Natal for studies towards a National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in various fields of study.

KwaZulu-Natal CoGTA MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, said the bursaries will be awarded to 10 deserving students, and will cover tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, accommodation, and all costs associated with the study.

Successful candidates will enter a bursary contract for the number of years equivalent to the duration of their qualification.

“Students must email statements of symbols and letter of acceptance from any accredited South African university,” Buthelezi said.

Application can be submitted via email to Judith.mchunu@kzncogta.gov.za .

The deadline for applications is on Friday, 17 January 2025. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 01/16/2025 - 14:24

48 views
Read moreKZN CoGTA calls on matriculants to apply for bursaries

Empowering public service through Open Distance eLearning

Location: News

Empowering public service through Open Distance eLearning

By Fran Greyling

The need for continuous professional development is more important than ever. With the increasing demand for flexible, cost-effective, and scalable learning opportunities, Open Distance eLearning (ODeL) has emerged as a transformative solution. 

One institution leading the charge in this space is the National School of Government (NSG), offering a suite of 20 ODeL courses tailored for public servants. These courses are carefully curated to address the evolving learning and development needs of public sector employees and are expanded annually.

A flexible, cost-effective, and scalable solution

ODeL is a flexible delivery model that ensures learning can be accessed by individuals regardless of location or time constraints. This flexibility is particularly beneficial to officials who often manage busy schedules and numerous responsibilities. Through ODeL, they can engage with course materials at their own pace, on their own terms, without the need for travel or time away from their duties.

Moreover, the scalability of the ODeL model is a significant advantage. By offering online courses, the NSG can reach a large audience, expanding its reach to public officials across various levels of government. 

In addition to its flexibility and scalability, ODeL is a cost-effective learning model. Traditional in-person training programmes can be expensive, not only in terms of course fees but also when accounting for travel, accommodation, and other associated costs. By offering most of its ODeL courses for free, the NSG is making a significant contribution to the development of public sector employees, ensuring that cost does not become a barrier to learning. This commitment to providing free courses aligns with the School’s mission to promote capable and professional public service.

Supporting national goals and professionalisation

The NSG’s ODeL initiative plays a role in implementing the National Framework for the Professionalisation of the Public Sector, which is a key aspect of South Africa’s strategy for enhancing the quality and effectiveness of its public service. The framework is structured around several pillars.

Pillar 2 focuses on, among others, reorienting the public service to meet the demands of citizens and government. An online Reorientation course reminds public servants of their obligations and equips them with the tools to navigate everyday challenges.

Pillar 4 is dedicated to ensuring continuous professional development for public sector employees. ODeL is an effective vehicle for achieving this goal. By offering a broad range of courses that focus on critical knowledge, skills, and values, the NSG is facilitating ongoing learning and development for public servants. Our free courses are designed to improve performance in the workplace. The courses include an introduction to core management competencies such as strategic planning, leading change, project management, financial management, and human resource management. Additional courses focus on promoting ethical behaviour and fostering anti-discrimination awareness. The Know and Live Our Constitution course addresses constitutional obligations, providing a foundation for other courses that focus on the responsible and accountable use of government resources. ODeL also supports performance improvement by offering courses that develop practical skills, such as professional writing.

A catalyst for online learning and development

The COVID-19 pandemic, though a challenge for many industries, proved to be a catalyst for the uptake of ODeL. As in-person learning became impractical due to health restrictions, institutions and organisations turned to online learning as a viable alternative. Public servants embraced the flexibility and accessibility offered by ODeL platforms, allowing them to continue their professional development during a time of uncertainty.

Since the onset of the pandemic, more than 250,000 ODeL opportunities have been created for public officials. These opportunities span all spheres of government and across all provinces in the country. This wide-reaching impact highlights the strong demand for accessible learning and development programmes and the success of ODeL in meeting this need. The high levels of participation and completion are strong indicators that ODeL is addressing genuine learning needs. 

Easy access

The process for enrolling in these courses is straightforward. Public servants can easily access the NSG’s website, browse the available courses, register, and begin their learning journey. The platform is designed to be user-friendly, providing officials with just-in-time learning opportunities. 

The ODeL courses currently on offer are the following:

  • Championing Anti-discrimination in the Public Service
  • Ethics for Internal Auditors
  • Ethics in the Public Service
  • Financial Management Delegations of Authority 
  • Generally Recognised Accounting Practice
  • Introduction to Financial Management and Budgeting
  • Introduction to Leading Change
  • Introduction to Policy Formulation and Implementation
  • Introduction to Project Management
  • Introduction to Strategic Human Resource Management
  • Introduction to Strategic Planning and Management
  • Know and Live our Constitution
  • Managing Performance in the Public Service
  • Municipal Standard Chart of Accounts
  • Nyukela (Pre-entry into the Public Service)
  • Operations Management Framework
  • Policy and Procedure on Incapacity Leave and Ill-Health Retirement
  • Public Service Reorientation
  • Writing for Government: Advanced Writing Skills
  • Writing for Government: Basic Writing Skills

Looking ahead

As the world of public service continues to evolve, the role of ODeL in supporting professional growth and development is becoming increasingly important. The future of learning and development is undoubtedly shifting towards online platforms, and initiatives like ODeL offer new opportunities for growth and learning. Public servants across the country now have greater access to flexible and relevant learning opportunities, helping to enhance their skills and contribute to a more effective public service.

More information is available on the NSG website on www.gov.za or email elearning@thensg.gov.za and for bookings contactcentre@thensg.gov.za.

*Dr Fran Greyling is the Chief Director responsible for eLearning at the National School of Government.

Janine
Wed, 01/15/2025 - 08:46

189 views
Read moreEmpowering public service through Open Distance eLearning

NW agriculture colleges set for new academic year registration

Location: News

NW agriculture colleges set for new academic year registration

Preparations are underway for the registration of first-year and returning students at agriculture colleges in the North West.

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said the Potchefstroom College of Agriculture and Taung Agricultural College are gearing up to commence the 2025 academic year, with both institutions set to reopen on 13 January 2025.

Registration for first-year students at Potchefstroom College of Agriculture will be held on 20 and 21 January 2025, and registrations for second and third year students will be held on 22 January 2025.

At the Taung Agricultural College, registrations for first-year students will be held on 20 - 21 January 2025, while registrations for returning students will be take place on 15 and 16 January 2025.

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development spokesperson, Emelda Setlhako, urged prospective students to adhere to the registration dates and ensure that all required documentation is ready and complete on the day.

“Qualifying late or walk-in applications will only be considered subject to space availability during the registration period. Those interested in studying at the colleges are encouraged to apply during the next application window later in the year.

“Students requiring on-campus accommodation are advised that there is limited accommodation space and alternative accommodation arrangements should be made. Early planning is strongly encouraged to secure a spot,” Setlhako said.

For further details, prospective and returning students can contact the colleges directly.

For Potchefstroom Agricultural College, students can contact Ismail Haffejee on 079 515 8714 or email at IHaffejee@nwpg.gov.za during office hours.

For Taung Agricultural College, Vuyiswa Mziwakhe can be contacted on 060 504 8149 or email at charmmyv@icloud.com during office hours. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 01/08/2025 - 09:25

122 views
Read moreNW agriculture colleges set for new academic year registration