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Just matriculated and uncertain about what comes next? A new year and you’re considering a new career? This is what’s next… Not too long-ago technological skills were as exciting as meeting the grim reaper, but today, tech-savvy individuals are the hottest commodity on the job market. Most roles today require some degree of digital and …
The Codeine Care Initiative could save lives Better monitoring of the purchase of codeine can help to stem a growing substance abuse problem. Fueled by popular music, the promise of escapism and the fact that it’s relatively cheap, some of South Africa’s youth have become increasingly addicted to codeine-based over-the-counter products which can be purchased …
Decline of 2.3% in fatal road crashes during 2023/24 festive season
While the preliminary results for the 2023/24 festive season road traffic statistics show a 2.3% decline in the number of fatal crashes when compared to the same period last year, the data indicates that the majority of those who died were between the ages of 25 and 44.
Releasing the 2023/24 festive season road traffic statistics, Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga said during the period under review 1 184 fatal crashes were recorded compared to 2022/23 where 1 212 crashes were recorded.
“The period shows that human factors contributed 80.8% of the crashes, environmental factors contributed 10.4% as a result of heavy rainfall and storms, while vehicle factors contributed about 8.8%.
“According to the statistics, 40.9% of those who died were pedestrians, passengers accounted for 33.6%, drivers accounted for 24.6% and cyclists accounted for 0.8%,” Chikunga said on Wednesday in Johannesburg at the N1 Grasmere Toll Gate.
She accredited the decline in fatal crashes to the intensified law enforcement operations conducted and the high police visibility throughout the country.
More than 1.4 million vehicles were stopped and checked during these operations with 7 820 drivers arrested for, among other things, driving under the influence of alcohol, reckless driving, producing false documentation and excessive speeding.
The Minister noted that the festive period was marked by heavy rain and storms, which created challenges on the road.
“Unfortunately, some drivers did not modify their speed in slippery and wet conditions. That resulted in avoidable crashes. Most of the crashes occurred in the first week from 1 December to 5 December, again from 15 December – 21 December and from 22 December to 28 December. The first week incorporated the payday weekend when people had received bonuses and were having end of year parties.
“The third week incorporated the long weekend, industry closure and the people had started travelling while the fourth week incorporated the Christmas long weekend and saw a massive increase in traffic volumes and festivities.
“Most crashes took place in the evening between 7pm and 10pm with the peak between 8pm and 9pm. Most fatalities were also recorded on Sundays, which is a new trend,” Chikunga said.
Five provinces - including the Free State, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Limpopo and North West - recorded fewer fatalities while other provinces recorded increases.
The provincial breakdown for provinces is as follows:
“The Eastern Cape is the only province that managed to surpass the target set for it to reduce fatalities by at least 18.6%. In light of this, we will have serious engagements with authorities in the provinces and possibly redefine the targets informed by objective dynamics and available resources on the ground in the provinces,” the Minister said.
She said the number of registered vehicles at the start of the festive season campaign on 1 December 2023, stood at 13 133 035, which was significantly higher than the 12 964 430 registered on 1 December 2022 and thus bringing more 168 000 registered vehicles on to the road.
“I wish to commend our traffic officers, members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and emergency medical services for their sterling work, commitment, and dedication during this period. They sacrificed their family time and pleasure as they committedly enforced the law,” Chikunga said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 01/24/2024 - 14:18
Over one million NSFAS bursary applications received
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has received 1 545 822 applications for the 2024 academic year as of 21 January, with additional applications expected before the application cycle closes on 31 January 2024.
Briefing the media on the department’s state of readiness for the opening of the 2024 Post School Education and Training (PSET) academic year on Tuesday, Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, said the scheme has provisionally funded 657 703 South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) recipients’ applicants.
He urged all NSFAS applicants to submit a consent form in order to verify relevant information from third parties and ensure that NSFAS complies with all the legislative requirements.
“The information is required to verify the employment status and income level of the parents, guardians, or spouses of the applicant. It is mandatory for applicants to download and upload a completed Consent form on the NSFAS website, portal or mobile app.
“The SARS (South African Revenue Service) Consent Form requirements affects students who are in the application data category and these students should patiently wait for communication from NSFAS through SMS and email, which will provide instructions on how to upload the form,” Nzimande said.
The Minister warned that non-submission of a complete, accurate and duly signed NSFAS consent form would disqualify a student for NSFAS funding due to NSFAS's inability to evaluate and determine financial eligibility.
In a bid to improve its contacts with students, NSFAS has launched new platforms, where applicants can access their application updates at their fingertips through the downloadable NSFAS student mobile app, WhatsApp line and a USSD code.
Applicants can add NSFAS on WhatsApp 078 519 8006 or USSD *120*67327 to track their application status.
Institutions called to submit student list for accommodation
Meanwhile, Nzimande has called on all higher learning institutions to submit the list of NSFAS funded students, who have been registered, so that they apply for accommodation through the scheme’s accommodation portal.
Nzimande said NSFAS is piloting the accreditation of private student accommodation in 17 universities and 23 Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges for the 2024 academic year.
Through this pilot programme, Nzimande said NSFAS intends to ensure that student accommodation service providers provide student accommodation that is accessible, decent, safe and academically conducive for all students.
The purpose of the student accommodation programme is to assign students to available accommodation; accredit accommodation providers; pay accommodation fees to accommodation providers through secured platforms; and grade accommodation to create a standard and ascertain cap for accommodation, amongst others.
“Out of the total of 38 938 beds registered on NSFAS platforms in our TVET colleges, 25 989 beds have been accredited and are available for the registered students, and 12 949 beds are in the process of been accredited. For universities, of the total 67 337 beds registered, 42 965 have been accredited and available and 24 372 beds are in the process of being accredited.
“From 18 January 2024, NSFAS provided access to a portal for all institutions in order to view the available beds. Accrediting agents are continuing with the process of accreditation and the list is updated daily,” Nzimande said.
From 8 January 2024, NSFAS has been providing weekly training on the application and registration process to accommodation providers and students, and the training is expected to end in February 2024.
Nzimande added that during this year’s registration period, NSFAS has developed a plan to visit hot spot areas, to ensure that students are not left stranded and without accommodation. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 01/24/2024 - 09:30
Box with Heavyweights Dance with Stars Bedazzled with Choices In the age of digital dominance, online visibility is the oxygen for any South African business. But with a plethora of online business directories buzzing in the ecosystem, finding the right platform to amplify your brand’s voice can be a daunting task. This article unravels the …
Zulu congratulates social grant beneficiaries for passing Grade 12
Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu has praised the Grade 12 students, who benefit from Social Development services and have successfully completed the 2023 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams.
Of the 897 775 Grade 12 learners who wrote their NSC, 543 786 full-time learners were social grant beneficiaries, with 62 out of 110 social grant beneficiaries amongst the top performing learners in different categories, as awarded by the Department of Basic Education (DBE).
According to the department, social grant beneficiaries formed the largest number of learners who wrote their 2023 National Senior Certificate and 441 871 learners passed the NSC examinations which is an overall pass rate of 82.9%.
About 202 156 received a Bachelor's pass, which gains them access to institutions of higher learning, with 160 326 distinctions.
The Minister said that the child support grant formed the biggest grant type received by these learners, with the majority of them from KwaZulu-Natal, the second-best performing province after Free State.
The South African Constitution, through the Child Justice Act, also obligates the state to provide care and support services to children in conflict with the law, including educational opportunities.
According to the data from the Departments of Basic Education and Social Development, 1 630 children in conflict with the law registered for the 2023 NSC.
“Providing educational opportunities for children in conflict with the law is a key element of rehabilitating and re-integrating them back into society. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (the CRC), which South Africa ratified in 1995, recognises the importance of education for children in conflict with the law,” Zulu said.
The Minister detailed that the Social Development sector has been integrating the social protection administrative data system to ensure better coordination of services and tracking of health and educational outcomes for beneficiaries of various government services aimed at tackling child and adult poverty.
She asserted that the linking and sharing of administrative data systems within the social cluster departments - Social Development, SASSA, Department of Basic Education, and NSFAS - ensure information is shared on the academic performance of social grant beneficiaries.
“One such success story of the benefits of linking and sharing of data systems was the agreement between Social Development and NSFAS on the exemption of social grants beneficiaries from the means test, a decision that has significantly bridged the higher education gap as it opened the doors of learning for many, regardless of their socioeconomic background,” the Minister said.
Zulu emphasised that education has the power to break the cycle of poverty and transform lives. By accessing education opportunities at institutions of higher learning, she said, many social grants beneficiaries have succeeded in creating a better future for themselves and their families, thus breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty and inequality.
“The benefits of social grants extend beyond individual beneficiaries to broader society. Our government’s pro-poor policies such as our social assistance programme, no-fee schools, school nutrition, school uniforms, free health care including sanitary dignity packs have made significant impact over the past 30 years in reducing poverty by bridging the education gap for learners from impoverished backgrounds. We will continue to build on the success of these impactful interventions that have lifted many of our people out of poverty," Zulu said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 01/22/2024 - 12:10
Elevate always-on control room operations to the next level with clear, dynamic, and reliable solutions from LG. In today’s interconnected world, control rooms serve as nerve centres for various industries, from mining, to transportation, retail, security, and emergency services. These control rooms require advanced technologies that can support constant connectivity, seamless collaboration, and efficient information …
In the case of complex air-cooling systems, it is better to proactively address potential issues before they escalate. Let’s be real—nobody wants to be blindsided by a malfunctioning HVAC system, especially during summer. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems play an important role in ensuring comfort and air quality in residential, commercial, and industrial …
By Gabriela Ramos, Assistant Director-General for the Social and Human Sciences of UNESCO, and Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa (http://www.RugbyAfrique.com)
With a current population of over 1.4 billion, Africa is expected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050. By 2030, young Africans are projected to constitute 42 percent of the world's youth. Looking ahead, by 2100, nearly half of the world's children will be African, and Africa will then constitute 40% of the global population. This demographic transformation presents an unprecedented opportunity for the continent and the world.
In a future where Africa's youth will constitute the majority of the global youth population, it is essential to recognize that the path of international sports bodies will be inextricably linked to Africa. With a rapidly expanding fan base, a growing pool of talented athletes, and a substantial TV audience, Africa becomes a focal point for the future of sports.
Rugby, with its core values of integrity, respect, solidarity, passion, and discipline, stands as a powerful catalyst for character development. These values extend far beyond the playing field, instilling life skills that are essential for young people as they navigate life's challenges. Integrity on the pitch translates to honesty in life's challenges, respect in victory and defeat fosters empathy in relationships, and solidarity in teamwork becomes community service, cultivating a spirit for the common good. South Africa, a triumphant four-time rugby world champion, has consistently exemplified these values, with its current captain Siya Kolisi standing as a role model for the entire African continent.
Empowering African youth through rugby is not just about playing a fun sport; it's about equipping them with the tools they need to drive continental growth and reach their fullest potential. Every young rugby player has the potential to be a future leader, an agent of positive change, and an ambassador for unity. By nurturing their talents and investing in their development, we set in motion a journey that contributes not only to the advancement of rugby across Africa but also to the progress of our societies at large.
Rugby is actively implemented in 39 countries across the continent, and Ghana, Nigeria, and Zambia are among the six emerging nations that are enjoying strong growth in rugby globally, according to data published in September by World Rugby. The growth of rugby in Africa, coupled with the sport's rising global popularity, creates a promising economic ecosystem and offers immense potential to drive human development and livelihoods. Beyond its cultural and sporting importance, the rugby industry offers diverse opportunities for revenue generation, including sponsorships, broadcasting deals, merchandise sales, and event hosting. These economic benefits extend to ancillary industries, such as sports tourism and sports technology, attracting international visitors, fostering tech startups, and driving infrastructural development. Additionally, investments in youth development, infrastructure, and training programs can lead to job creation, and skills development, contributing to economic growth and community well-being. This highlights rugby's significant role in advancing economic development across Africa. In harnessing the potential of rugby, Africa can not only foster sporting excellence but also stimulate economic advancement and social progress on the continent.
However, this transformative journey requires commitment and investment. African governments, development agencies, and international sports governing bodies, such as World Rugby, need to recognise the pivotal role that rugby can play. It is a responsibility we owe to the future of our continent and the world, and Rugby Africa, the continental governing body of rugby in Africa, is eager to collaborate with global stakeholders to strengthen the rugby value chain on the continent. Together, we aim to leverage the attributes of rugby in addressing social challenges and enhancing individual and community well-being.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.
Cameroon is at the forefront of a significant data revolution in Central Africa, with big data driving innovation, informing decision-making, and fueling economic growth. This has established the country as a recognized hub for data science professionals, with recognition from both the public and private sectors. However, the demand for skilled big data professionals in …
Online School, Brainline, says it is encouraged by the excellent results of the class of 2023. Amongst those several excellent academic performers have emerged. The Independent Examination Board (IEB) and the Department of Basic Education will release their results today, Thursday, 18 January 2024. Brainline, who is IEB recognized, has received an 88.2% pass rate. …
From Education to Casual Games, Art and Wellness, LG Smart TVs are delivering experiences filled with Enjoyment, Personal Growth and Excitement for All LG Electronics (LG) presented an array of new apps available on the company’s smart TVs to meet users’ individual preferences and interests. The extensive selection of services is convenient and easily accessible …
Company’s Game-changing Innovation Leverages the Latest AI, Autonomous Mobility Technology and Conversation Services for a Smarter Life at Home LG Electronics (LG) unveiled its innovative smart home Artificial Intelligence (AI) agent at CES 2024. LG’s smart home AI agent boasts robotic, AI and multi-modal technologies that enable it to move, learn, comprehend and engage in …
Matric 2023 learners can access results on Matric Results Online System
The Gauteng Department of e-Government has urged learners who wrote their matric exams last year to use the Matric Results Online System to access their results.
The matric results for the National Senior Certificate exams are expected to be released on Friday, 19 January, while the ministerial announcement on the results will be made on Thursday, 18 January.
The Gauteng MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, e-Government, Research and Development, Mzi Khumalo, said the system empowers learners.
“The Matric Results Online System is a testament to our commitment to harnessing the power of technology to enhance our education system. We believe in this case that technology not only facilitates access to information but also empowers learners to make informed decisions about the success of their education.
“This initiative aligns with our broader vision of creating a transparent and accessible education system. By providing instant access to matriculation results, we are fostering a culture of openness and accountability within our education sector,” Khumalo said.
The department explained that the digital platform provides “easy access to matriculation examination results for learners, parents, and educators alike”.
The platform can be accessed at https://results.gauteng.gov.za/.
“The Matric Results Online System is a user-friendly platform that allows learners to conveniently access their matric results on their smartphones or other digital devices as soon as the results are out.
“It is a safe platform to use and also offers insightful data analytics, allowing learners to track their performance trends over multiple examinations.
“Parents and guardians can also utilise the app to access their children's results, fostering a more collaborative and supportive approach to education. Additionally, educators can use the platform to gain valuable insights into the performance of their learners, enabling them to tailor teaching strategies to address specific needs,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 01/17/2024 - 11:47
As we head into 2024, the renewable energy sector is set to see innovation that will transform the way energy is accessed, stored and deployed across Africa. Paul van Zijl, Group CEO at Starsight Energy (https://StarsightEnergy.com/), discusses 4 key trends that he thinks will profoundly shape the industry over the next year.
Batteries will provide benefits far beyond backup for behind-the-meter projects
One of the most significant shifts in solar technology revolves around the integration of battery energy storage systems (BESS) – especially for behind-the-meter solar (also known as onsite solar). Traditionally, batteries were seen primarily as backup storage when paired with a solar system, ensuring a steady power supply during cloudy days, nighttime or when the grid is unavailable. However, in 2024, the focus is vastly shifting towards load management, where batteries play a dynamic role in optimising energy consumption.
As the trend for the deployment of batteries across the continent grows, cutting-edge management systems will become a key part of solar installations with an integrated battery component. These systems use advanced algorithms to predict energy demand patterns. This allows for the strategic use of battery storage – discharging it during expensive peak times and charging it using solar energy or the grid during off-peak – to reduce the costly demand charges that come with variable tariff structures. Along with enhancing the efficiency of solar systems, integrated battery storage solutions can also contribute to grid stability by reducing strain during high-demand periods.
When it comes to front-of-the-meter (or offsite) storage, BESS is also set to play a bigger role in the deployment of utility-scale renewable energy technology like wheeling - where power is generated at an offsite location (like a solar or wind farm) and transported using the available power network to different off-takers.
In South Africa for example, the national energy provider Eskom announced the deployment of around 343 MW in BESS projects as part of an overall 500 MW BESS initiative aimed at addressing the country's long-running electricity crisis. The systems will be in remote areas (with limited access to Eskom's network) but still close to renewable energy plants built by independent power producers (IPPs).
This collaboration between the public and private sectors supports more widespread deployment of utility-scale power and the adoption of renewable energy projects. By adding battery storage components to the national grid, businesses and consumers can gain quicker access to reliable electricity while the power utility can address peak energy demands more easily. This also ensures that the increasing amount of power generated from utility-scale solar projects can be stored and consumed outside of daylight hours to avoid stranded grid capacity.
Data, banking and tourism: The rise of sustainable off-grid solar solutions
Off-grid renewable energy solutions, including stand-alone systems and mini-grids, offer a unique opportunity to expand modern energy access services. The distributed nature of these systems allows them to be tailored to local conditions, tap into available renewable resources, deliver diverse energy services, and utilise local capacity to ensure long-term sustainability.
We will see a rise in these solutions as more and more commercial and industrial businesses realise the value of effectively moving off-grid. This will be prevalent in three industries:
Data centres: Africa is a global hub for data centres. According to research from African Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM), there is around 250 MW of installed data centre capacity across Africa – with the demand for centres in Africa expected to exceed supply by 300% by 2030. These powerhouses of technology rely heavily on a steady and safe electricity supply. From operating to maintaining their vast cooling systems, large data centres simply can't afford the risk of a grid collapse or any possible power interruptions. Power autonomy is the name of the game here, making battery storage a necessity from the get-go.
Banking: While the prevalence of mobile financial services continues to soar on the continent, there is still a tangible need for brick-and-mortar banks and ATMs in countries where access to these services remains essential. These sites need to remain operational should there be any sort of grid collapse or catastrophic power failures - making an off-grid solution a non-negotiable component of the future of banking in Africa.
Tourism: With the rise of conscious consumerism and eco-tourism, sustainability is fast becoming the differentiating factor for discerning travellers choosing their next holiday destination. Luxury lodges in popular destinations in East and Southern Africa are fast moving towards fully off-grid solar battery operations to offer their guests uninterrupted access to power while boosting the lodge's green credentials in the process.
As more and more businesses become aware of the benefits of off-grid solar, it is likely that we will see an even greater adoption of this technology in the coming year.
Seamless access to renewables through a reimagined aggregation model
We will certainly see a shift towards aggregated solutions, wherein energy providers will consolidate diverse technologies and services into comprehensive packages in 2024. This trend is driven by the recognition that a holistic approach to energy solutions is not only more convenient for consumers but also more effective in optimising energy production and consumption.
This can be done in several ways. For example, trading of electricity in South Africa allows a service provider of solar energy to buy and sell, excess wind energy without having to invest substantial capital expenditure amounts. Similarly, instead of having gas-powered energy compete with renewable energy, the aggregation model will also allow providers of such services to aggregate their energy solutions and provide the client with a holistic offering. The goal is to provide consumers with a seamless and integrated final product that maximises the benefits of renewable energy across various aspects of their daily lives. The real value for customers lies in a collaboration of providers who can meet their specific needs and power the entire energy lifecycle.
Tackling complexities through an increasingly consolidated sector
As the solar industry matures, a trend towards consolidation will become increasingly evident in 2024. Larger energy companies will consider merging or acquiring smaller players, creating more robust and diversified entities. This consolidation is driven by the desire to achieve economies of scale, increase market share, and foster innovation by pooling resources and expertise.
Consolidation in the industry is not limited to manufacturers but extends to service providers, research and development firms, and energy management companies. By joining forces, these entities can tackle the complexities of the evolving energy landscape more effectively, driving down costs and accelerating the adoption of alternative energies across the continent.
This trend is fostering the emergence of holistic service providers capable of providing end-to-end solutions that address the diverse needs of businesses, consumers and communities. Our recent market-milestone merger between Starsight Energy (https://StarsightEnergy.com/) and SolarAfrica (https://SolarAfrica.com/) is a case in point. Customers in Eastern, Southern and Western Africa can access our comprehensive mix of cost-effective solutions that provide power security and carbon reduction. These include solar energy, battery storage, wheeling, and energy management, among others.
The future is bright. If 2023 was anything to go by in terms of transformation for the energy sector, 2024 will be marked by accelerated innovation and a collective commitment to harnessing the full potential of renewable energy that holds the promise of a more resilient, more sustainable, and more tightly connected energy future for Africa.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Starsight Energy.
Company Outlines Direction and “Break Through Limits” Management Policy During Press Conference in Las Vegas LG Electronics’ (LG) CEO William Cho and key company executives introduced the strategies LG is implementing to achieve its ‘Future Vision 2030’ goal, during a press conference held for Korean media in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.A., on January 10. The …
Small business management can feel like a balancing act. From daily operations to bottom-line concerns, it can get intense. This is where business advisory services come in handy. They offer strategic solutions like CFO outsourcing or financial planning services that can enhance your business planning. Solving Financial Issues Small businesses often need help with their …
The retail industry is undergoing a massive transformation, driven by the internet, customer expectations, and emerging technologies. Retailers need to adapt and innovate to survive and thrive in this new era of digital retail.
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The conference will cover a wide range of topics, such as:
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Distributed by APO Group on behalf of IT News Africa.
Work experience opportunities for Western and Eastern Cape youth now open
The Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport, through its Youth and After School Programme, is calling for unemployed youth, aged between 18 and 25, to apply to be part of the Year Beyond Youth Service Programme for 2024.
Applications for the education programmes are now open for youth living in the Western and Eastern Cape who meet the criteria.
All the education programmes require a matric certificate and some require minimum marks for language or maths.
The Year Beyond platform offers young people the opportunity to get a year of hands on working experience and build their work readiness competencies, while also giving back to their communities.
Commonly known as YeBoneers, successful applicants will be placed either at a school or community hub where they will assist learners and parents.
The Eastern Cape programme is run with funding from the national government and facilitated by the Western Cape Year Beyond team.
“The opportunity to provide youth in the Eastern Cape with this experience is an important part of skills development beyond the Western Cape,” the statement read.
According to the provincial department, the success of the programme is evident as seen from the feedback received from previous years.
Citing the data, the department said 96% of participants believe the experience helped them to get to know themselves better and 95% feel the programme prepared them better for the world of work and study.
Meanwhile, between 75% and 78% of YeBoneers have progressed to becoming economically active in the world of employment or study, or a combination of the two, upon finishing the programme.
“I encourage our young people to apply for this opportunity. It is a great programme for our youth which equips them with skills for entering the world of work or study. We want to give our youth a hand up to become successful and active members of society who contribute not only to the economy but also serve their communities,” said Western Cape MEC of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Anroux Marais.
Applications and further information on the education streams are now open via the website: https://www.yearbeyond.org/apply.
Applications close on 18 February 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 01/10/2024 - 14:36
MEC commends Gauteng EMS festive season response
Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, has expressed satisfaction with how the Gauteng Emergency Medical Service (EMS) responded to emergencies during the festive period.
The MEC joined EMS personnel on the ground on New Year’s Eve, as they responded to emergency calls as part of the Safer Festive Season campaign.
Nkomo-Ralehoko said the work done by the Gauteng EMS, who are also known as the Green Angels, during the festive period demonstrated that the resources the Gauteng Department of Health has invested both in personnel and equipment are being put to good use.
The operation kicked off at the EMS Communication Centre in Midrand, where MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko joined the dedicated team of call centre operators to respond to incoming emergency calls to ensure prompt and efficient responses to save the lives of those in distress.
During the critical period between 6:00 AM on Sunday, 31 December 2023, and 6:00 AM on 1 January 2024, the Gauteng Emergency Communication Centre recorded a total of 1 914 calls. These calls included various incidents such as accidents, medical emergencies, suicide, trauma cases, and others,” said the Gauteng Department of Health in a statement on Tuesday.
The breakdown of calls is as follows:
- Accidents (motor vehicle, motor bike, pedestrians, etc.): 102 calls.
- Medical emergencies (maternity, asthma attack, epilepsy, heart attack, collapse, etc.): 898 calls.
- Suicide-related (poisoning, hanging, overdose, etc.): 42 calls.
- Trauma cases (assault, gunshot, burns, etc.): 468 calls.
“Comparing this data to the previous year, we have observed a minimal decline in call volumes. Around the same period in 2022/23, the Emergency Communication Centre recorded 1 929 calls (105 accidents, 862 medical, 53 suicide/attempts and 482 trauma cases).
“The statistics of emergency cases attended to between 15 December to 1 January in 2022/23 and 2023/24 cycles show that most of the calls were medical related, followed by trauma cases, accidents and suicide related calls.”
There has been a decline in medical related cases from 18 121 to 16 876, while trauma related cases have increased from 5 795 to 6 000.
There is also a slightly positive decline in suicide-related cases from 771 to 702. There was a slight increase in accident-related cases from 1 676 to 1 682.
The Gauteng Emergency Medical Services remains committed to its mission of saving lives and providing quality emergency medical care to the people of Gauteng.
“I want to commend our dedicated healthcare workers across the Gauteng health system, who have been working tirelessly during this busy period. Their dedication and professionalism is commendable,” said the MEC.
Nkomo-Ralehoko further expressed appreciation to the residents of Gauteng and those visiting the province for their continued cooperation and patience. She pleaded with them to make use of primary health facilities and only call the Emergency Communication Centre for actual medical and trauma emergencies, as this will greatly improve responses to those in distress.
“The statistics could be improved upon drastically if people were to act more responsibly and with consideration of others,” she said. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Wed, 01/03/2024 - 11:14
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NSFAS committed to settling outstanding disbursements
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) says it is determined to conclude all outstanding 2023 disbursements by 15 January 2024, in consultation with the affected institutions.
The NSFAS Board held an extraordinary meeting on Sunday, 31 December 2023 to consider reports from NSFAS management on various issues including the final disbursement of the 2023 allowances, the NSFAS budget adjustment and the NSFAS accommodation pilot project.
NSFAS said the commitment made on the outstanding disbursement is to ensure that the 2023 bursary allowances do not affect the returning students for the 2024 academic year.
“Early in January 2024, the NSFAS Board will have further stakeholder engagements with the Universities South Africa (Usaf), the South African Public Colleges Organisation (SAPCO), the South African Union of Students (SAUS) and the South African Technical Vocational Education and Training Student Association (SATVETSA) and labour unions to brief them on the preparations for the 2024 academic year and the NSFAS eligibility criteria and conditions for financial aid,” NSFAS said in a statement.
NSFAS has disbursed about 234 124 students allowances from 5 December 2023, as part of the reconciled final disbursements for the 2023 academic year. This exercise was done in order to disburse the final allowances to students whose allowances where not concluded due to changes in their registration data.
NSFAS said this process ensures that disbursements are paid directly to institutions for tuition and for advancing payments to students.
“The [NSFAS] reconciliation data… is divided into three categories: (1) direct payment – direct allowance to students, (2) allowances on tuition disbursement to institutions, (3) student allowances via institutions.
“NSFAS confirms that there are 20 000 allowances which are yet to be concluded. These unresolved cases of disbursements require further input and consultation with institutions,” read the statement.
At its meeting, the board also discussed the NSFAS 2024 programme of action and the formation of a Rapid Response Team in preparation for the 2024 academic year.
2024 applications
Applications for financial aid for all learners who wish to enter the post-school system and students who do not have financial assistance to continue their studies in the 2024 academic year officially opened on 21 November 2023.
In a statement issued by NSFAS in November, NSFAS said applications for 2024 funding will close on 31 January 2024.
Werksmans Attorneys report
The NSFAS Board said it will further make public announcements on the implementation of the Werksmans Attorneys report in relation to direct payment service providers.
In October 2023, the NSFAS Board adopted the recommendations of the report into allegations surrounding the appointment of direct payment service providers.
The board had appointed Werksmans Attorneys and Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi to conduct an investigation into allegations of irregularities relating to Bid NO. SCMN022/2021.
The investigation followed allegations against former NSFAS CEO Andile Nongogo relating to his conflict of interest in the appointment of service providers.
Despite the challenges, the board reaffirmed its commitment to implement the direct payment solution.
"The board views the direct payment solution as a necessary measure to reduce instances of unauthorised access to beneficiaries’ allowances, payment of ghost students, inconsistencies and delayed payments of allowances.
“The direct payment solution is inline with the Student-Centered Model that NSFAS adopted,” said board chairperson Ernest Khosa at a briefing in October. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Tue, 01/02/2024 - 12:11
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