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On Thursday, 11 July 2024, K’li Scott and Claudia Garella of the Treverton Equestrian Centre embarked on an equestrian journey to Windhoek, Namibia. Both representing South Africa, K’li as a rider on two horses in the South African Adult Shield Team, and Claudia Garella as the Chef d’equipe of the South African Adult & Junior …
South Africa faces a youth unemployment crisis with a staggering rate of 45.5%, the highest in the world in 2023 per www.statista.com. Empowering entrepreneurs and driving micro business development is crucial for economic growth, addressing unemployment challenges and lack of income opportunities, reducing financial inequality, and ultimately uplifting communities. Job scarcity, lack of skills, educational …
NSFAS processes payment for qualifying beneficiaries
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Administrator, Freeman Nomvalo, says the scheme has been able to constantly process payments for all the beneficiaries who have submitted their banking details.
Addressing the media on the developments in the implementation of his mandate on Tuesday, Nomvalo highlighted that one of the urgent interventions made by the new Administrator was to migrate the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) NSFAS beneficiaries into a direct payment system through their banker.
This follows frustrations experienced by students in receiving their allowances.
Nomvalo said from the data received, about 6% of students are not receiving their allowance because they either failed the verification process due to incorrect information they provided, while some did not capture their banking details.
Nomvalo said, despite various efforts made by NSFAS to get these students to capture their banking details, the students have not responded.
“There are possible two scenarios; one that, these students have no means to reach us, possibly the messages did not reach them or regrettably, some of these could be non-existent students. What is more worrying is that to date we have not received complaints from students who may have not received their allowances,” Nomvalo said.
He said NSFAS will continue to engage with institutions and students to submit their details for their allowances to be paid in the next payment run, while investigating the validity and existence of these students.
On the university payments, Nomvalo reported that the administration has taken a decision to extend the current arrangement with universities facilitating payment of allowances to NSFAS beneficiaries.
He said the arrangement, which follows consultations with the South Africa Universities South Africa (USAF), is extended until the end of the 2024 academic year.
“This decision arrived in response to USAF and in support of the beneficiaries, as well as the stability of the Post School Education and Training (PSET) system,” Nomvalo said.
The Administrator added that the scheme also intends to migrate the university allowances to a more cost effective and efficient payment system.
“The planning for the migration of universities was halted by the interdict warded in favour of Ezaga and others by the Western Cape High Court on 12 July 2024, which NSFAS is appealing,” he said.
ICT system delays conclusion of student appeals
Meanwhile, Nomvalo said the delays in finalising student appeals, loans, and the 2023/2024 funded lists, is directly connected to the current NSFAS ICT system.
Nomvalo noted that the only default position at this stage is to constantly introduce a manual process of verification, which is “completely cumbersome and over overstretching staff.”
He said in 2023 alone, NSFAS received about two million applications.
“It is almost impossible to expect NSFAS staff to manually conduct verification of these applications at some point in the value chain [and] such a work environment is undoubtedly prone to errors,” Nomvalo said.
He announced that with additional capacity acquired, NSFAS will be communicating with universities, including TVET colleges and students on final lists, not later than end of August 2024.
“On behalf of NSFAS we wish to express our sincere apologies to the affected students and our colleagues in the PSET system. We are working hard to ensure the 2025 academic year is less burdened with the same issues,” Nomvalo said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 08/07/2024 - 10:03
Johannesburg, South Africa – Internationally acclaimed non-profit organisation, The Unlimited Child are proud to announce their newly established partnership with National Treasury’s Jobs Fund. The two have joined forces to address the challenges in Early Childhood Development (ECD), focusing on marginalised rural and peri-urban communities while creating sustainable jobs. Recognising the importance of investing in …
Chiloane condemns Matshidiso Primary School incident
Gauteng Education, Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation MEC, Matome Chiloane has condemned the “reprehensible” incident caught on video at Matshidiso Primary School in Katlehong.
On the video that has gone viral on social media, a well-known South African pastor is seen wielding pangas and threatening to attack teachers on the school premises.
“Disturbingly, another man is seen grabbing two learners, who were caught in the crossfire of this violent ordeal, while another is wielding an assault rifle. This violent and appalling behaviour has no place in our schools or our society,” said the provincial Department of Education.
In the video, the men with replica firearms and a panga are seen intimidating and harassing learners and teachers.
“The safety and well-being of our learners and educators are of utmost priority. Such acts of violence and intimidation not only undermine the foundation of our education system, but also have the potential to traumatise the entire school community, particularly given that this incident occurred in a primary school in full view of young children and their teachers.
“The department is committed to ensuring that justice is served in this matter. We will not tolerate any acts of violence or intimidation, and will take all necessary measures to protect our learners and educators,” said Chiloane.
The police said in a statement on Tuesday that the local pastor, his security personnel and others stormed the school and forcefully took two minor children.
READ | Pastor and others arrested for alleged intimidation at Katlehong school
“According to a preliminary report at our disposal, a conflict between two families over the custody of the boy learners enrolled at the school, in Grade RR and Grade 2, has been escalating. It is said that the mother of the children passed away in April this year, leading to a dispute between the paternal and maternal sides of the family.
“On the day of the incident, the father of the children had a meeting with the principal in the morning. Later in the day, the maternal grandmother, who is the alleged guardian of the children, also met with the principal as well to report and inform him about a conflict that occurred during a meeting held over the past weekend at the house of the paternal grandfather, who is a famous South African pastor,” said the department of Monday’s incident.
Following this, the deputy principal and some staff members refused to release the children without the grandmother’s permission.
This led to the pastor arriving at the school with bodyguards and weapons.
According to the department, teachers, acting on the said instructions from the grandmother, tried to prevent the father from leaving the school premises with the children. In response, the pastor brandished a panga threateningly at the teachers, allowing the father to leave with the children.
“Psycho-social support will be deployed for the affected teachers and learners to help them cope with the trauma resulting from this incident,” said the department. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 08/06/2024 - 11:59
Karabo Morapedi rises above the odds
by More Matshediso
Loving and supporting children who live with disabilities is key to enabling them to reach their full potential.
Karabo Morapedi (22) of Welkom in the Free State is a perfect example of what children with special needs can achieve if they are supported by their families.
He is among the South African athletes who will be flying the country’s flag high at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games in France.
The Paralympic Games are the largest global sporting event for athletes with disabilities. This year, they will open on 28 August and close on 8 September.
Despite being born with cerebral palsy quadriplegia, which affects all four limbs and causes various physical and intellectual challenges, Karabo does not allow the disability to stand between him and his dreams.
At the time of the interview, Karabo was at the World Boccia African Regional Championships in Cairo in Egypt.
Boccia is a Paralympic sport, it is a target ball sport which tests both muscle control and accuracy.
Vuk’uzenzele spoke briefly to his mother and aunt about his life story, academic performance and sport.
His mother, Sebolelo Morapedi, raised Karabo with the help of her sister Selloane Bochedi.
“Karabo’s father passed away when he was just an infant. I raised him together with his aunt,” she explained.
She said Karabo started playing Boccia back in Tswellang Special School in Bloemfontein, which provides Grade R to Grade 9 mainstream education and learner support services to learners who are physically challenged.
He continued with the sport when he joined Martie du Plessis School in Bloemfontein, which is a school for cerebral palsied, physically disabled and learning-disabled learners, where he completed his matric.
Karabo continued to play Boccia at the Central University of Technology (CUT) Welkom Campus, where he graduated with a National Diploma in Public Management this year. He is currently studying towards a qualification in Advanced Diploma in Applied Public Management at the university.
Bochedi said they had to accept his condition, but both committed to giving him love and support that he needed as a child.
“Like any other child, we invested in enrolling him in schools that catered for his special needs, and we have always been actively involved in his educational journey. He has always performed well in school and he excelled in his tertiary education studies,” explained Bochedi.
She believes that Karabo’s journey has so far shown everyone that living with a disability does not mean you have to be locked-up in the house.
She added that Karabo is extremely proud of his achievements so far and he has made his family proud.
The support that he gets from CUT and his coach also encourages him to work harder.
For more information about the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games visit www.paralympic.org/paris-2024.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Tue, 08/06/2024 - 12:16
Esports, once dismissed as a frivolous pastime, has evolved into a dynamic intersection of entertainment, technology, and education. This transformation is not only reshaping perceptions but also providing significant benefits across educational levels. From primary schools to universities, esports offer a unique blend of engagement and learning, preparing learners to be future ready in the …
Paul Modjadji’s 10 country African tour is chronicled in an enthralling new fourteen-part travelogue on SABC 1. Covering countries including Zambia, Namibia, Tanzania, Kenya, Nigeria and Senegal, the documentary follows Modjadji as he explores Africa’s rich youth and dance culture. Each episode serves up a kaleidoscope of experiences showcasing Africa’s leading landmarks and heritage sites …
Apply for funding for community heritage project
by More Matshediso
The National Heritage Council of South Africa (NHC) is inviting heritage practitioners, activists and enthusiasts to apply for Heritage Funding until 30 August 2024.
The NHC is an entity of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture that is responsible for the preservation, protection and promotion of the country’s heritage.
According to the NHC Acting Chief Executive Officer, Dr Thabo Manetsi, the entity also has a responsibility to disburse funds to approved heritage projects that commit to work together with the NHC to achieve its overall mandate.
“Preserving the tapestry of our diverse heritage is also key for nation building and social cohesion,” he said.
To be considered for funding, you need to have a community project in the heritage sector that seeks to preserve and promote South Africa’s heritage through documentation, research and publication.
This include educational institutions that participate in heritage projects, non-profit companies, non-governmental organisations, community-based organisations, associations, foundations (excluding family foundations), community trusts (excluding family trusts), and not for gain Section 21 companies.
The NHC said interested individuals must be willing to partner with credible and qualifying institutions for implementation and financial reporting of their project.
The entity said priority will be given to proposals or applications that focus in heritage research and publication or documenting of education and training in heritage, as well as indigenous knowledge systems.
The proposals or applications that focus on these projects would be categorised under these priority areas; women and heritage, youth and heritage, education and heritage, heritage research and publication or documenting, including indigenous groups' heritage initiatives.
Additionally, the NHC funding also gives priority to proposals focusing on the following key heritage disciplines:
• Living Heritage
• Cultural History and Heritage
• Education and Training
The NHC said organisations or individuals with heritage projects that are still active under the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PESP) or NHC funding will not qualify for funding until closing reports or committed end products are submitted.
“Don’t leave it for later, start working on your application process and gather the required compliance documents as soon as possible. Our teams are always available to provide the support required by applicants,” urged Manetsi.
For more information visit www.nhc.org.za, email funding@nhc.org.za or call 012 748 3949.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Tue, 08/06/2024 - 11:56
Swaragano, a non-profit organisation founded by Sanny Mashigo, has been making a profound difference in the Alexandra community of Johannesburg. Known affectionately as Mama Sanny, she has spent over three decades selling food on the streets and sharing leftovers with local children. This spirit of giving led to the creation of Swaragano in April 2020, …
Mental health and mental illness are often used interchangeably, yet they are distinct concepts. Mental health refers to our overall psychological well-being, encompassing our emotions, thoughts, and feelings, and it affects how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. In contrast, mental illness involves diagnosable conditions that impact a person’s thinking, emotional state, …
Government activities for the week 05 – 09 August 2025
On Monday, 05 August, Ministry of Water and Sanitation to brief media on departmental plans and priorities for 2024/25 at the Birchwood Hotel, Boksburg.
On Tuesday, 06 August, Minister Blade Nzimande addresses 32nd General Assembly of the International Astronomy Union in Cape Town. Also on Tuesday, the National Treasury launches the Money Smart Week South Africa 2024.
On Tuesday, 06 August the Department of Employment and Labour holds joint Employment Equity advocacy workshops in partnership with the CCMA kick off in the North West province.
On Wednesday, 07 August, the Department of Employment and Labour holds joint Employment Equity advocacy workshops in partnership with the CCMA.
Also on Wednesday, 07 August through till Saturday, the Basic Education and Sport, Arts and Culture departments host the 2024 ABC Motsepe South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod, at the Rhema Bible Church in Randburg.
Thursday, 08 August, no confirmed events.
Friday, 09 August, Women’s Day will be commemorated nationally by all South Africans.
Neo
Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:14
New premises will be the old Dome “on steroids”
Justice department condemns alleged racism incidents
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DJCOD) has condemned the alleged acts of racism at South African schools and committed to intensify the awareness of constitutional rights, including the prohibition against hate crimes and hate speech and the prevention and combating of these offences.
A racism row erupted at the Pretoria High School for Girls following the discovery of a WhatsApp group in which a group of white pupils allegedly sent messages to each other with racial undertones.
This was followed by the revelation of an incident at Table View High School where a substitute teacher allegedly used the ‘k’ word during a history lesson and another incident at Pinelands High School involving a ‘slave auction’ of black learners by their coloured counterparts. Both those schools are in the Western Cape.
“The [department] unequivocally condemns any acts of racism and racial discrimination and will intensify its efforts, in collaboration with the South African Human Rights Commission, the Commission for Gender Equality and the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities, to promote awareness of constitutional rights, including the prohibition against hate crimes and hate speech, aimed at the prevention and combating of these offences.
“The [department] is engaging the Department of Basic Education and will be monitoring how these matters will be handled and eagerly awaits the outcome thereof,” the DJCOD said in a statement.
The department emphasised that there remains no place in South African society for the use of racist language and behaviour.
“Our courts, especially our designated Equality Courts have pronounced on the use of the derogatory k-word - there is no place for such in a constitutional democracy which seeks to foster unity in diversity. Indeed, there is no place for racism or any other form of related intolerance in our constitutional democracy, which is anchored on the supremacy of the Constitution. Such incidents perpetuate harmful racial discrimination, and are stark and painful reminders of our Apartheid past.
“This year South Africa marks 30 years of freedom and democracy since the country’s democratic elections in 1994. The advent of our constitutional democracy 30 years ago, ended decades of oppression under white minority rule, based on the racist ideology of black inferiority and white superiority, and ushered in a transition to a society “based on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights”,” the department added.
The department said hate speech and hate crimes have been declared an offence following the operationalisation of the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act 16 of 2023.
This, notwithstanding the Constitutional imperatives on unfair discrimination and obligations of the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act, 2000.
“South Africa’s National Action Plan to Combat Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance [NAP] was approved by Cabinet in 2019. The NAP gives effect to South Africa’s constitutional and international obligations, thus signifying government's commitment to achieving the objectives of the NAP at the highest level.
“The [department], as the focal agency tasked by Cabinet to lead and coordinate the implementation of the NAP, in line with its constitutional mandate, unequivocally condemns all and any acts of discrimination, in whatever form they occur.
“It is of great concern that learners, almost all of whom were born in a country that is democratic and more inclusive, have to both experience racism and some still continue to hold such beliefs of racism, intolerance, hurtful and demeaning behaviour,” the DJCOD said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 08/02/2024 - 09:27
On 1 August 2024, iSchoolAfrica (www.iSchoolAfrica.com) proudly commemorates 15 years of driving educational change across South Africa. Since its inception, iSchoolAfrica has leveraged the world's best technology and educational practices to reduce inequalities, enhance opportunities for exceptional employment, and stimulate economic growth.
iSchoolAfrica's 15 years of success and sustainability stem from an unwavering commitment to making quality technology affordable and accessible. A key element of the programme is the rotation of mobile iPad labs from classroom to classroom – ensuring accessibility, security, longevity, usability, and durability.
The technology solution has a remarkable 5% failure rate, which demonstrates the reliability and durability of their technology. With iPads lasting an estimated 5-6 years within school environments, iSchoolAfrica ensures minimal downtime in schools, contributing to uninterrupted learning and significant cost savings on technical support. This is boosted by the iPads' Mobile Device Management system, which allows for quick and easy remote support.
By upskilling and empowering project champions to execute programs independently, iSchoolAfrica ensures lasting, impactful education solutions with zero compromise on quality and best practices. The fact that there is no compromise gives educators and learners alike the confidence that they matter and this is seen through the improved engagement and performance of the students.
“Over the last 15 years, against all odds we've achieved some incredible things, inspiring teachers to love their jobs again, helping children discover their love of learning through iPad lessons, while sparking hope for countless young learners' futures,“ says Michelle Lissoos, Executive Director of iSchoolAfrica.
Through strategic collaborations with partners, iSchoolAfrica equips South Africa's youth with the tools needed to thrive. The initiative focuses on under-resourced township and rural schools, from Early Childhood Development (ECD) to Grade 12, including mainstream and special needs education. Each school receives a secure mobile lab of 20 iPads, loaded with curriculum software and teacher training and mentoring. The built-in accessibility features of iPads also support children with disabilities, ensuring inclusive education for all.
Another key aspect to iSchoolAfrica's endurance has been the partnerships it has formed along the way. Growthpoint is one such long-term partner, having supported over 25 schools since 2014.
Commenting on their involvement, head of Growthpoint CSR Shawn Theunissen, says: “In order for us to provide support for education, we also needed to ensure that we provide a digital solution. You want to ensure that you are future proofing the youth of South Africa.”
Since its launch, iSchoolAfrica has reached all nine provinces in South Africa, impacting 341 schools and training over 3,000 teachers — impacting over 100,000 learners. Later this year, in partnership with the Imbeleko Foundation, they plan to launch the first Apple Training Authorised Centre in Africa, located in rural Kwa-Zulu Natal.
Key Educational Programmes
iSchoolAfrica is focused on four key educational programmes. These include:
1. Early Learning
Recognising the critical importance of a child's early years, iSchoolAfrica integrates technology into preschool and Grade R to help teachers address core developmental skills essential for young learners. The Early Learning Programme supports the NCF and CAPS curriculum frameworks through interactive social stories and learn-through-play activities.
2. Numeracy and Literacy
iSchoolAfrica addresses South Africa's literacy and numeracy crisis by ensuring learners grasp foundational skills. Partnering with the Unlocking Talent Through Technology Initiative, iSchoolAfrica brings the one billion numeracy programme to primary schools, achieving an average increase of 15% in numeracy results since 2009.
3. Disability and Inclusion
The Inclusion Programme provides solutions for children with various disabilities, including autism, low vision, and cerebral palsy. With 36 special needs schools, iSchoolAfrica has the distinction of having the first Apple Distinguished Special Needs School in the world. Collaborations with CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA and CORE have also helped introduce iPads to hospital schools in Gauteng, supporting paediatric oncology patients' education during treatment.
“We have seen a total change in the nature of our learners. They have become a lot more disciplined, creative and enthusiastic. Our kids now have a sense of pride. It empowers them,” says Ishwarlal Reggie, Deputy Principal, MCK Special School.
4. Coding and Robotics
Empowering learners to become innovators, leaders, and builders of their futures, iSchoolAfrica introduces coding and robotics through Apple's Everyone Can Code Curriculum. This program, spanning from ECD to higher education, exposes learners to coding and app design via interactive puzzles and code walkthroughs.
“As iSchoolAfrica celebrates this milestone, our commitment to educational excellence and reducing inequalities remains stronger than ever. We look forward to continuing this journey of empowering South Africa's youth and transforming the educational landscape for years to come,” concludes Lissoos.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of iSchoolAfrica.
NOTE TO EDITORS
MEDIA CONTACT:
Ima Peter
+27 11 268 6388
ima.peter@razorpr.co.za
About iSchoolAfrica:
Since 2009, iSchoolAfrica has provided over 100 000 South African learners, from ECD to Grade 12, with state-of-the-art technology and education practices. Together with our partners, school leaders and educators, we have changed teaching and learning in the most under resourced and vulnerable communities across South Africa, giving youth the opportunity to learn, create and succeed.
Impact and Awards
· Active in nine provinces
· 341 schools in the programme
· 300+ trained teachers
· 200+ rural youth facilitators
· 500+ trained media changemakers
• 22 Excellence in Education Awards
• 2023 Foundation Disability Empowerment Award
• 2023 Gauteng Women's Excellence Award for Innovation
• 2018 New Generation Award
• 2017 Eduweek Award, Inclusion
Programmes
• Early Learning
• Numeracy and Literacy
• Disability and Inclusion
• Coding and Robotics
• Media Changemaker
The Unlimited Child CEO Named Finalist in 2024 Santam Women of the Future Awards The Unlimited Child, the largest and leading Early Childhood Development (ECD) non-profit organisation in South Africa, is incredibly proud to announce that their CEO, Candice Potgieter, has been named a finalist in the prestigious 2024 Santam Women of the Future Awards …
W Cape Grade R and transfer applications for 2025 open
Western Cape parents who wish to apply for Grade R or a school transfer for the 2025 school year can do so from today, 1 August 2024.
The on-time application window closes on 16 August 2024.
For admission to Grade R, a child must turn six years old in the year that the child starts the grade.
In addition, transfer applications for Grades 2 to 7 and Grades 9 and 12 are to be submitted at the school to which the parent or caregiver wishes to apply or their nearest Western Cape Education Department (WCED) office.
This applies to school transfer requests for learners already attending school, applying for Grades 2 to 7 and Grades 9 to 12.
“Please note that schools can only capture applications for their own institution, but district officials can capture applications for multiple schools,” the provincial department explained.
According to the department, parents or caregivers will be required to fill out the WCED application form, which can also be downloaded from the department’s website, to submit to schools or the district office from today.
“Parents can drop off the application form and supporting documents at the school directly. They can also contact the school for details on electronic submissions on the official WCED form only.”
Parents who have not registered on the online system previously will first need to register on the website and once completed, they can then proceed to the application.
With regards to Grades 1 and 8 applications, the department said schools are currently finalising their admission lists, and confirming placements for children on their waiting lists.
“This process is ongoing. We do, however, appeal to all parents and caregivers who have not yet applied for Grade 1 and Grade 8 for the 2025 school year, to do so immediately.”
This can be done through contacting their district office or calling 0861 819 919 for more information.
Applications can be submitted online at https://wcedonline.westerncape.gov.za/admissions.
Parents applying online from Grade R and transfers will need supporting documents such as an immunisation card, identity document (ID), birth certificate, passport, study permit, and proof of address or police affidavit. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/01/2024 - 10:47
Some children are on a waiting list for years
Just Energy Transition must not leave communities behind - Ramokgopa
Minister of Energy and Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has insisted that as South Africa continues to transition from a carbon intensive economy to a green economy, communities must be informed, consulted and educated on what the transition will mean to them.
The minister was delivering an address at the Institute for the Future of Work (IFOW) seminar on South Africa’s Just Energy Transition and the Future of Work in Tshwane.
Ramokgopa emphasised the importance of consultations with and education of communities as South Africa transitions and, by implication, some coal fired power stations wind down operations.
“We need to answer that question by what we mean by [Just Energy Transition]. It’s also about the democratisation of the conversation. It’s important that when you move into [communities] you don’t undermine the agency and the ability of people in those areas to comprehend and understand the implications of the decisions that you want to take.
“You don’t suggest that you have the authority to decide on their behalf. We don’t have that authority. It’s important that they get to be educated [on] the impact of not transitioning to the environment, to their own health, what it means and the impact of doing that suddenly.
“And they must contribute to the generation of how best to do that Just Transition and don’t treat those people as unthinking [and] as people who don’t have a view. As we move this just transition, we [must] take communities with us,” he said.
The minister highlighted that South Africa’s Just Energy Transition is expected to be an expensive process which – he added – should be subsidised by developed nations who are responsible for the vast majority of greenhouse gases causing climate change.
“There’s a ticket that’s assigned to the transition…the financing ticket. We are talking about R1.6 trillion over a period of five years. The South African balance sheet is very weak; it will not be able to carry this. So you need to design bespoke financing instruments…to help us to go this route.
“But also more significantly, what is the contribution of the developed world? Those parties that are largely responsible for the kind of damage that we are seeing to the environment. Africa in total contributes about 4% to the greenhouse gas emissions. We can’t carry the same responsibility. The industrialised and developed north have got both a moral and ethical duty to ensure that they are able to finance this transition,” he said.
Turning to South Africa’s renewable energy sector, Ramokgopa reiterated President Cyril Ramaphosa’s stance that the sector is undergoing a revolution that will create jobs and growth.
“Without any hesitation, renewables are going to see the biggest exponential growth of any form of fuel in the energy mix. We are tilting towards green forms of energy. Nuclear, solar PV, hydro and wind are going to be the mainstay of this transition. Of course, we do all of these things at the pace and scale that we can afford.
“We know that on solar PV and wind, these are some of the cheapest forms of generation. So we are going that route with its own weaknesses that this is not dispatchable power. So it’s not available all the time. It’s important that we do this configuration of what constitutes the various forms of fuel sources…understanding that the backbone of our energy generation will still be baseload,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 08/01/2024 - 10:31
Marshalltown Fire Justice Campaign calls for City to compensate victims and release remaining bodies at the morgue
DPWI Minister commits to expedite development of EduPark in Mamelodi
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has vowed to expedite the development of the EduPark community project in Mamelodi, east of Pretoria.
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has vowed to expedite the development of the EduPark community project in Mamelodi, east of Pretoria.
“The EduPark and Mamelodi Skate Club, which forms part of it, is an example of how we need to accelerate development in our communities using State assets,” Macpherson said.
“The EduPark development has the financial backing of international donors to develop sports, education and agricultural facilities, but has been waiting for the release of unused State land in Mamelodi for the development to take place.
“For us to use public assets for public good, we will need to increase the number of partnerships the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has with private and non-profit role players, such as EduPark, to utilise unutilised public land for the best interest of communities.
“When the State does not utilise or protect State land, it often becomes a dumping ground for rubbish or illicit activities, where the municipality is then accused of not taking action to clear and protect the property, when it is not their responsibility.
“Going forward, we need to work together with municipalities to identify problematic properties and see how they can be used for public good,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 07/31/2024 - 10:40
Nick Matzukis, co-founder and CEO at Academy of Sound Engineering There is no magic wand to make it in the music industry. A combination of talent, technical knowledge and business acumen is essential if aspiring young artists are to monetise their skills effectively. According to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) Global Music …
Call to participate in Money Smart Week
National Treasury, the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) and the National Consumer Financial Education Committee (NCFEC) has called on organisations and individuals to participate in the Money Smart Week South Africa (MSWSA) 2024 campaign.
The 2024 edition of MSWSA will run from 26 August to 1 September 2024, featuring various consumer-focused financial education programmes and initiatives.
“The key objective of the MSWSA is to provide a national collaborative platform and mobilise a wide range of stakeholders to motivate, empower and educate South Africans and contribute to a more financially literate citizenry,” the National Treasury said on Monday.
MSWSA is an initiative of the NCFEC and was first launched in 2018.
Over the past six years it has reached a multitude of South Africans through mainstream media, community radio, exhibitions, television, social media, and face-to-face workshops.
Additionally, the initiative has witnessed an increase in stakeholder participation from 48 participants in 2018 to 78 participants in 2023.
“Participation in MSWSA is open to any organisation or individual, including academic institutions, government departments, regulatory authorities, financial institutions, community groups, companies, non-governmental organisations and public benefit organisations.
“Activities during this campaign will include free workshops, presentations, mall activations, exhibitions, and webinars. Interested participants are invited to organise their own financial education initiatives and events to host during the week-long campaign,” National Treasury said.
The online registration process is open for participants to submit a participation application form, by no later than 16 August 2024. -SAews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 07/29/2024 - 13:56
This year’s International Marimba and Steelpan Festival featured a record 2,300 musicians from across South Africa and neighbouring countries