MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
Are you navigating Google Search Ads in 2023? This guide will provide you with the information and strategies you need to understand the new features and maximise your return on investment. We’ll discuss the benefits of Google Search Ads, how to create effective ad copy, target customers, and optimise bidding. We’ll also look at how …
Are you looking to scale business growth and stay ahead of the competition in 2023? Strategic digital marketing outsourcing could be the answer. By leveraging the expertise of professionals, you can increase efficiency, reduce costs, and analyse data like never before. Discover the benefits of outsourcing, how to assess providers, and potential pitfalls to look …
Are you looking to take your Google Ads audits to the next level? You’re in the right place! With precision and performance in mind, this article will help you master Google Ads audits in 2023. We’ll cover the benefits of auditing, the auditing process, analysing performance, structuring accounts, keyword strategies, ad copy optimisation, tracking & …
Ensuring education for all
While challenges in the education sector remain, gains are being made to ensure learning for all.
The results of Census 2022 released recently, not only revealed that the country’s population grew to 62 million from 51.7 million in 2011, but also that the population remains relatively youthful. The data showed that 61.2% of the population is under the age of 35.
Of key interest of the data released is that of accomplishments in the education sector, given the country’s history of the exclusion of the majority.
Section 29 of South Africa’s Bill of Rights speaks to the fact that everyone has the right to basic education, including adult basic education; and to further education, which the state, through reasonable measures, must make progressively available and accessible.
Since South Africa attained democracy close to 30-years ago, government has put in place various measures to ensure access to education for all. These measures include the introduction of no-fee schools, school nutrition programmes and access to scholar transport.
The 2022 Census - which is the fourth to be conducted in democratic South Africa - notes that access to educational institutions is an important step to universal education, but that “the ultimate goal would be to keep children at school until completion of their education.”
According to the census, in 2022, 73.4% of the population aged 5-24 years were attending school, up from the 70.1% recorded in democratic South Africa’s first census in 1996.
The census plays an essential role in planning, policy formulation, evaluation and budget allocation of the country.
It also revealed that the percentage of those aged 20 years and older who completed secondary education more than doubled from 16.3% in 1996 to 37.6% in 2022.
This as the Department of Basic Education has acknowledged a slight rise in the number of those not attending educational institutions.
“We do acknowledge that there has been a slight increase in the number of 5-24-year-olds not attending an educational institution since the last census in 2011, of about 200 000. However, this is partly due to population growth (the number of 5-24-year-olds attending has increased by even more) and [is] partly due to earlier completion of schooling,” said the department’s spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga.
Additionally, the data showed that over 14.1 million of those aged 20 and above, completed secondary education in 2022, followed by 11.9 million who achieved some secondary education and 4.6 million who attained post-school education.
Mhlanga said the average age of youths successfully completing a National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification has been gradually lowering over the years.
“The result is an astonishing trend over time; the percentage of 22-25-year-olds attending education actually decreased from 16.4% in 2002 to 15.8% in 2021. Yet, over the same period, the percentage of 22-25-year-olds having completed grade 12 increased dramatically from 39% to 62%.”
He pointed out that the country’s school system used to be far more inefficient, with many children staying in school into their twenties but then exiting without having completed Grade 12.
“These days, children repeat less, are less likely to be in school into their twenties, but most important of all, they are much more likely to successfully complete a National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification,” he explained.
COVID-19 and challenges
He also touched on the impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic, which disrupted schooling.
“The Minister’s [Angie Motshekga] move to reopen schools in spite of the fear and criticism has now been fully vindicated. The spread of the virus was not affected by reopening schools, and despite worries about increased dropping out of school during the pandemic, the opposite happened; more candidates wrote and passed the matric exams in 2020, 2021 and 2022 than ever before.”
He added that the department is well aware of the challenges in the education sector.
“The quality of learning in the early grades, especially in foundational literacy and numeracy, remains a critical priority, and was negatively impacted by the pandemic.
“Another challenge, or rather opportunity, is to improve the quality of Early Childhood Development opportunities now that this responsibility has been shifted from the Department of Social Development to Basic Education.”
Census 2022 revealed that 3.4 million children aged 0–4 years participated in the Early Childhood Development (ECD) programme.
Last year, government moved the responsibility of the provision of the ECD programme from the Department of Social Development to the Department of Basic Education. In June, Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Basic Education received a progress report from the Department of Basic Education (DBE).
“We must acknowledge the challenges that exist in South African education, but all the trends in access, equity, quality and efficiency are overwhelmingly positive,” said Mhlanga.
Development
Reacting to the census results, Cabinet said the country has been developing over the course of the last 29 years.
This is in addition to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call to government departments, policy makers, researchers, civil society organisations and international organisations to use information from Census 2022 to collectively strive to improve people’s lives.
“Census 2022 has told us where we are making progress, but it has also laid bare the challenges that remain. It will be an invaluable tool in meeting those challenges. We now have the information we need to ensure that as we build this country, we leave no one behind,” the President said as he received the results of the count from Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke.
The population and housing census was conducted in February 2022 and provides comprehensive data on population size, demographic trends and other service delivery related information. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 14:50
Intimidation has prevented repairs to parks in Delft, Cape Town
Namibia is a beautiful and diverse country with a stable political and economic climate, making it a prime destination for property investment. South Africans are particularly drawn to Namibia due to its close proximity, similar culture, and affordable property prices. Schantal Teichmann, franchisee of Just Property Windhoek and Just Property Swakopmund, shares her insights into …
Human Rights Commission report slams failure of water supply in Limpopo
Cabinet calls on SA to support national sports teams
Cabinet has called on the nation to rally behind the national teams in their battle against England at the Cricket World Cup in India and the Rugby World Cup in France.
“On Saturday, 21 October 2023, two of South Africa’s biggest national teams will play against England in their respective World Cup matches. Our national teams continue to remind us of the best of South Africa and they are the best display of our unity as a nation with a single national identity – just being a South African.
“As the Proteas and Springboks enter the battle fields, it is our responsibility as the nation to let them feel the spirit and vibe of the resilient nation behind them,” Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday in Pretoria.
She was addressing the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.
Matric exams
Meanwhile, the National Senior Certificate matric exams will commence on 30 October 2023.
“Cabinet extends its well wishes to the Class of 2023 and all other learners who will be writing their final examinations. Cabinet calls on parents and guardians to support learners during this critical period in their academic journey,” Ntshavheni said.
Medium Term Budget Policy Statement
Cabinet has encouraged South Africans to tune into the 2023 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) on 1 November 2023.
The MTBPS details adjustments to the national budget and it is an important part of South Africa’s open and accountable budget process. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 10/19/2023 - 10:34
In a world driven by our constant connection to digital devices, a reliable power bank has become an essential companion. Whether you’re traveling, working on the go, or simply spending a day out, power banks ensure that you never run out of battery on your smartphone, tablet, or other gadgets. With a wide array of …
In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected and productive on the go is essential. For professionals, students, and anyone who relies on their laptop, a reliable power source is a must. This is where a laptop power bank comes to the rescue. These portable devices have revolutionized the way we use our laptops, ensuring that we’re …
Zikalala calls for efficient monitoring of projects
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Sihle Zikalala, has called on officials to work closely with contractors to ensure that projects are delivered on time and within budget.
Zikalala said failure to deliver projects will also cost not only the department but the individuals concerned as well.
Speaking at the latest Siyahlola engagement in the North West town of Matlosana, Zikalala said it is important for officials to be diligent in checking up on projects.
He said that projects do not just collapse on their own; the problem often arises if the project management approach is not tight from the side of the departmental project managers, which eventually lead to delays and problems.
“The delays are caused by the lack of coherent planning between the department and the client department.
“Our project managers are not hands on enough. Long explanations as to why projects are delayed for a long time, do not help. We must be hands on and the department must deliver as expected,” he said on Tuesday.
Zikalala indicated that all regional managers must be part of technical structures of the District Development Model (DDM) so as to know what is being planned and co-ordinated at all levels of government.
The Minister’s visit comes ahead of the second leg of the DDM Presidential Imbizo which will be held on Friday, 20 October at J.B. Marks Local Municipality in Dr. Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality.
Speaking at the same event, Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Executive Mayor, Nikiwe Num, who was accompanying the Minister, dedicated the district leadership to be the ears and eyes of the Minister on projects and how they were being implemented.
Num said as part of the DDM work, impromptu site visits will be conducted to see to it that projects do not stall and that all blockages are reported to the Minister.
She advised that no trial and error should be tolerated on sensitive projects like the Klerksdorp Correctional Centre.
The Klerksdorp Correctional Centre is a R94. 4million project. The spectrum of work that is being covered includes building related work as well as civil, electrical and mechanical work.
The project will also replace site sewer reticulation, cold water mains, internal warm water piping and irrigation water mains. The perimeter fencing is also being replaced. The project is expected to be finalised in 2025.
Meanwhile, the North West provincial government said the imbizo aims to create an interactive platform for President Cyril Ramaphosa, Ministers and the provincial leadership to engage with communities and find solutions to challenges of socio-economic concerns confronting them on a daily basis.
The provincial government said the imbizo is aimed at intensifying the provision of services, promoting social cohesion, and advancing developmental programmes aimed at creating economic opportunities for locals. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 10/18/2023 - 09:35
Introduction: Welcome to a world of luxurious comfort and exceptional hospitality where every detail matters. When it comes to providing an unforgettable experience to your guests, nothing speaks more volumes than the quality of Commercial bed linens in your lodge. Elevating your hospitality experience requires a partnership with top-notch suppliers who understand the importance of …
“Some of our colleagues have been brutally murdered while at the workplace”
Health Department to introduce new vaccines to improve existing coverage
As part of efforts to improve coverage of existing vaccines, the Department of Health is set to introduce new vaccines to be included in the routine expanded program on immunisation at a cost of R3.5 billion.
Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, made the announcement during a media briefing following a meeting with Health MECs held in Centurion on Thursday.
Phaahla noted that South Africa continues to experience outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, despite a strong childhood vaccination programme.
He said there is an ongoing need to improve coverage of existing vaccines and add new vaccines to the expanded program on immunisation schedule.
The Minister said the department is introducing a better packaged/derived vaccine that will prevent Whooping Cough, Tetanus and Diphtheria and reduce the chances of these conditions resurfacing within the communities.
“We are also introducing a combination vaccine of measles and rubella that will protect young girls, particularly during pregnancy which may lead to birth defects,” Phaahla said.
He said all these changes, recommended by the Ministerial-appointed National Advisory Group on Immunisation (NAGI), will be implemented with effect from January 2024.
Expansion of online birth registrations rollout
The Minister also announced that the Department of Home Affairs has made budget provision for the set-up and operational costs for the expansion of Online Registration System by an additional 91 health facilities during 2023/24 financial year.
This forms part of collaborative efforts between the Departments of Health and Home Affairs to ensure that all births are registered on time, through the Online Birth Registration system, which has been rolled in 161 health facilities with ability to issue birth certificates on the spot.
“These facilities will be allocated full-time Home Affairs officials to provide birth registration service during office hours. The establishment of the system in these new facilities will commence by the end of October 2023. This initiative will go a long way in providing early birth registration,” Phaahla said.
Integration of COVID-19 vaccinations into primary health services
Meanwhile, the Minister announced that the department has decided to make a number of changes related to COVID-19 vaccinations, which include transitioning from a mass vaccination campaign to integrate vaccination into routine primary health care services.
This is in line with World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations.
Phaahla said the current available Pfizer vaccine stock purchased as part of the COVID-19 national vaccination rollout will expire at the end of October 2023, while the J&J vaccine doses will expire at the end of February 2024.
The EVDS (Electronic Vaccination Data System) will continue to record all COVID-19 vaccinations until 29 February 2024, thereafter those vaccinated will receive a paper-record of vaccination, but they will still be able to download vaccination certificates as long as they have at least one vaccination code.
“The department plans to procure vaccines for administration in the public sector and will continue to work with the private sector to facilitate availability of vaccines. All restrictions limiting procurement of vaccines by private sector providers will be lifted,” Phaahla explained.
He added that the investigation and causality assessment of COVID-19 vaccination-related Adverse Events Following Immunisation (AEFIs) will continue and mechanisms for processing No Fault Compensation Scheme claims will be retained.
Phaahla also gave an update on various issues affecting the public health system, including cost containment measures; audit outcomes and performance against targets; medico-legal claims, among others. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 10:44
A groundbreaking transformation is underway in South Africa’s renewable energy sector, led by the solar marketplace pioneer Hohm Energy. Today, they have unveiled their commitment to providing the most cost-effective subscriptions for homes across the nation. Through a strategic partnership with Glint, Hohm Energy will offer solar subscription plans starting at an incredibly low monthly …
While plans for temporary relocation of 891 households occupying the Central Line are making progress, thousands of households remain on the railway
“If the same findings are coming through, how effective are these enforcement powers of the Auditor-General?”
South Africa, with its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cities, has always been a sought-after destination for both tourists and potential homeowners. The real estate market here offers a plethora of options, from luxurious villas to cozy apartments. If you’re in the market for an apartment for sale in South Africa, check here you’re …
When it comes to wooden structures, exceptional craftsmanship, quality materials, and convenience are the hallmarks of a trusted provider. Wendy’s Online, a name synonymous with excellence, delivers all these attributes and more. Learn more. Let’s explore what makes Wendy’s Online the go-to choice for those seeking top-tier wooden constructions: Exceptional Craftsmanship: Where Art Meets …
Government could face court action for failing in its constitutional duty
Imagine a world where the boundaries of luxury expand far beyond what you thought possible. Picture yourself in a floating hotel, a majestic vessel that takes you to exotic destinations, offering unparalleled indulgence and convenience. For many, a cruise has long occupied a coveted spot on their bucket lists, often seen as an experience reserved …
Minister Zulu receives review report on child support grant
The Child Poverty and the Child Support Grant (CSG) Review Report not only serves as a barometer, but it is an invitation to found, strengthen and activate multilateral partnerships that will undo child poverty in all communities.
This is according to Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu, who received the review report on Friday in Johannesburg, Gauteng.
“The Review Report is a challenge to all of us to inspire hope, thereby ensuring a brighter future for all children. To reinforce the CSG’s continued relevance, the department is currently working on a policy through which we will be integrating the receipt of children's grants with government’s other basic services in the very near future.
“This policy will ensure that these beneficiaries, namely children, will benefit from receiving the diverse bouquet of government’s interventions that will necessarily improve their human development and dignity,” Zulu said.
In 2021, the Department of Social Development commissioned the Children’s Institute at the University of Cape Town to conduct a comprehensive review of child poverty and the value of the Child Support Grant (CSG).
In its effort to ensure that the right to access social assistance is afforded to all those who are unable to take care of themselves, the South African government has, through the Department of Social Development, rolled out a massive social assistance programme, the most notable being the CSG.
The South African Social Assistance programme stands as a globally recognised model, acknowledged for its strategic role as the nation's primary poverty alleviation initiative.
The CSG has been especially successful at reaching large numbers of poor children with relative ease, earning recognition for its pro-poor targeting among existing social grants.
To date, the 13 million children are CSG recipients to the value of R510 a month per child. In the previous financial year (2022/23), the Department of Social Development, through its entity, SASSA, allocated a budget of R77 billion for the payment of this grant.
The CSG remains one of the country’s successful poverty alleviation programmes, which plays a significant role in positive school outcomes, and research has shown that it has ensured that eligible children receiving the CSG remain in school.
While it is acknowledged that the CSG has had a significant impact in alleviating poverty, it is provided at a value too small to protect the poorest children from hunger, malnutrition, and stunting, the review noted.
In an effort to augment the current social assistance programme such that it can address the existing gaps, the Department of Social Development said it has, in the past two decades, engaged in policy reforms in the form of scaling up social assistance to cover all the vulnerable groups.
The review assessed the state of child poverty in the country, the impact of the CSG on child poverty, as well as the value of the CSG in the context of child poverty and the cost of raising a child.
The findings of the review are already indicating that poverty rates are higher for women than for men, and higher for children than adults, making it imperative therefore, going forward, to analyse child poverty rates separately, as the extent of child poverty is otherwise obscured by the overall national poverty rates.
The review also found that child poverty in South Africa remains racially and geographically distorted, wherein African children and those living in rural areas in the former homelands, are most likely to be poor.
Child food poverty was also reduced by 20 percentage points from 55% to 33% between 2003 and 2013, as the CSG coverage expanded rapidly with the age threshold being extended from 7 to 18 years.
Several studies demonstrate that the CSG has contributed to improved outcomes for child wellbeing. Furthermore between 2013 and 2019, child poverty rates remained stable and the percentage of children below the upper bound poverty line started to show improvement in 2017.
The review also records that the introduction of the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress, the caregiver allowance and top-ups to the permanent grants helped to offset increases in child poverty for a few months in 2020. It has been found that these temporary measures to boost grant income “saved” an estimated 1.2 million children from food poverty for a few months.
The review also notes that child poverty and hunger rates increased after the caregiver allowance and top-ups ended in October 2020.
It further reveals that in 2021, child poverty had risen significantly, with 37% of children (over 7 million) living in food poverty and 62% below the upper bound poverty line.
It has also been found that delays in birth registration and CSG applications during lockdown resulted in the number of babies receiving the CSG falling by about 100 000 in 2021 with no recovery to 2019 levels by March 2022.
As a result of many years of annual CSG increases below food inflation, the purchasing power of the CSG has been eroded and it no longer covers the cost of food and clothing for a child as originally intended.
The review further highlights that should the status quo continue, the gap between the value of the CSG and the food poverty line will widen further every year, with the rate and number of children living in food poverty continuing to rise.
The study, inter alia, recommends that the food poverty line - at R663/child/month - should be regarded as the absolute minimum, while the upper bound poverty line - at R1 417/child/month - should not be seen as generous. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 13:47
We’re not facing an immediate fiscal crisis, says Institute for Economic Justice
Informal settlement families say they only have five mobile toilets for over 400 shacks