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HSRC survey finds trust in IEC by voters was high

Location: News

HSRC survey finds trust in IEC by voters was high

A Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) survey has found that trust in the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) was high among voters, as millions cast their vote in the National and Provincial Elections (NPE) on Wednesday, 29 May.

This is according to the HSRC’s preliminary findings on the survey conducted on Election Day, as South Africans voted, marking 30 years since the historic first democratic elections in 1994.

The HSRC released its preliminary findings at the IEC national Results Operations Centre (ROC) in Midrand on Friday. 

In the Election Satisfaction Survey (ESS), voters were asked questions about the election process, including whether the 2024 NPE were free and fair. 

The survey aimed to establish the opinions and perceptions of voters and their electoral experience. 

WATCH | HSRC media briefing 

The research sampled 300 voting stations selected countrywide, proportional to race, geographic type and the number of voting stations in each province.

“Trust in the Electoral Commission was high and almost all voters felt that they were safe to cast their ballot in secrecy,” the survey found.

According to the HSRC’s Dr Benjamin Roberts, trust in the country’s election management body is well in the 80% rate. 

“The trust in the commission remains dominant… Amongst the general public, trust in the commission has been declining, as it has in all core political institutions over the last decade and a half, although the IEC remains among the trusted institutions in the country.

“But obviously, the voting public trust is much higher.” 

Roberts believes that this is predominantly because those who had a positive experience leaving the aspect of the queuing time translates to the validation of the institution. 

“The other reason is that for many South Africans, the predominant response to unhappiness with the function of the political system is the abstention and not electoral turnout. We’re finding increasing polarisation of happier voters and discontent and abstinence. That’s what’s probably driving the positive evaluations,” said Roberts.

Meanwhile, results indicated that voters overwhelmingly believed the 2024 NPE were free and fair and positively rated the conduct of officials at voting stations.

“Almost all voters felt that they were safe to cast their ballot in secrecy,” said Roberts.

The majority of voters also felt that the IEC adequately considered the needs of vulnerable groups, including the elderly and people with disabilities. 

However, the finding showed that queuing times at voting stations increased relative to more recent elections, which had a bearing on electoral evaluations. 

In addition, most voters were pleased with the ballot papers, with 58% indicating they were “very satisfied” and 35% told researchers they were “satisfied”.

However, 38% wanted to improve the ballot paper for future elections.

In addition, fewer people believe that their vote counts than those who believe they must vote. 

Coercion and availability of information

Shifting focus to coercion, 12% reported experiencing someone trying to force them to vote for a certain political party or candidate, while nine percent said it happened before Election Day. 

Four percent said they were forced by party agents and four percent by friends and family. 

“Of those reporting coercion, 73% reported that it had no bearing on electoral choice, 25% said it did and two percent uncertain. This translates into three percent of all voters who changed their vote,” Roberts said.

On the level of information, roughly 13% stated that they had far too little information and 10% said they had too little information about the voting procedures.

Meanwhile, 42% said that the IEC website was “very useful” in providing information and education and 23% said “somewhat useful”.

According to the survey, 52% said that the IEC voter education campaigns were “very useful” in providing information and education and 28% said “somewhat useful”. – SAnews.gov.za 

Gabisile
Fri, 05/31/2024 - 16:34

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Impilo Collection Foundation to Provide Critical Support to Victims of Gender-Based Violence and Promote Education with Donation of 200 Blankets

Location: MyPR

The Impilo Collection Foundation recognises the transformative power of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and violence. In line with this vision, funds were raised by our founder, Angela Yeung, during her recent mountain climb up the daunting Manaslu, standing tall at 8,163 meters, which surpasses her previous triumph on the Island Peak at …

Read moreImpilo Collection Foundation to Provide Critical Support to Victims of Gender-Based Violence and Promote Education with Donation of 200 Blankets

Education at the Forefront of South Africa’s Children: Afrika Tikkun celebrates International Children’s Day

Location: MyPR

South Africa is abuzz with discussions, debates and decisions as the nation awaits the outcome of the 7th democratic elections. Every citizen’s vote will shape the country’s trajectory, making this period critical for our democracy. While parties presented a variety of platforms and promises, one issue stands out prominently: education. For many South Africans, the …

Read moreEducation at the Forefront of South Africa’s Children: Afrika Tikkun celebrates International Children’s Day

50% of South Africans over 15 have hypertension, a disease known as the silent killer

Location: MyPR

May Measurement Month calls on South Africans to get tested! It’s reported that close on 50% of South Africans over 15 live with hypertension1 – also known as the silent killer. Even more alarming is 50% are undiagnosed and untreated2. This May, a public health campaign “Because I Say So” is calling on consumers to …

Read more50% of South Africans over 15 have hypertension, a disease known as the silent killer

June: National Environment Month – Hout Bay Leads the Way in Environmental Awareness and Action

Location: MyPR

National Environment Month is celebrated in June, with the South African government and captains of industry-leading the way by stimulating awareness on environmental issues and challenging all to become agents for change. The environment encompasses the surroundings where individuals, animals, or plants live and operate, and it is significantly influenced by human activities. World Environment …

Read moreJune: National Environment Month – Hout Bay Leads the Way in Environmental Awareness and Action

Government thanks voters

Location: News

Government thanks voters

Government has thanked the millions of South Africans who successfully went out in their numbers to make their voices heard in the seventh democratic elections by casting their votes.

“Particularly noteworthy is how first-time voters clearly came out in their numbers to affirm their right to vote and in so doing their commitment to a democratic and free country, a country which knows its freedom came at a high price,” Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Acting Director-General, Nomonde Mnukwa, said on Thursday.

South Africans went to the polls on Wednesday in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.

These elections coincide with the country’s celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy.

“The youth of South Africa have confirmed their commitment to shaping our nation’s future in this election and their engagement in the electoral process is a testament to their adherence to constitutional values. We salute you all,” Mnukwa said.

The GCIS said the unwavering commitment, dedication and professionalism of various stakeholders and role players was instrumental in ensuring that the country held successful elections. 

“The conduct of the electorate during this process has been exemplary as a testament to the founding principles of the country’s democracy and is a reflection of a nation hallmarked and acknowledged globally by a regular, credible electoral process since 1994.

“This active participation of citizens is indeed a cornerstone of our democratic process and will go a long way in building a vibrant and representative nation,” the GCIS said.

Law enforcement agencies working through the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) were crucial in ensuring safe and peaceful elections.

“This ensured that all citizens exercise their democratic right to campaign and cast their vote freely and without fear. The security measures, most notably in identified hotspot areas, contributed to elections that were peaceful and safe.  Where incidents were reported, these were swiftly addressed not only by law enforcement and officials of the Electoral Commission (IEC).”

The voting process by the IEC across all correctional facilities concluded without significant issues.

“This is an important milestone for a democratic country, ensuring that eligible voters, including the incarcerated, participate in the electoral process. The synergy amongst correctional officials in preparing inmates and ushering them to the voting stations made it possible for the IEC to guarantee a seamless and secure voting experience for inmates.

“The Department of Home Affairs also ensured that all South Africans had identification documents for the purpose of casting their votes with extended operating hours and issuing of temporary ID documents to enable the public to have the necessary documents that enabled them to vote.

 “Since the dawn of democracy, South Africa’s general elections have been viewed as free and fair by both domestic and international observers, and this serves as encouragement for the country to continue to uphold the integrity of the electoral processes,” GCIS said.

Government acknowledged the invaluable contributions of community leaders, elections officials, volunteers, and all who played various roles in facilitating successful elections. 

“Working together, the teams were instrumental in ensuring voter education and accessibility for all eligible voters. All sectors of society are commended for making it possible for the elections to be held in such a peaceful, nonviolent, and safe manner,” GCIS said.

The election was also marked by a record number of political parties as well as independent candidates for the first time, which is a reflection of South Africa’s maturing multiparty democracy.

The cooperation by all political parties is a demonstration of the collective spirit of ensuring that all citizens exercise their democratic right to vote.

“The role of the various communication channels and platforms, as well as national and international media in ensuring comprehensive coverage of our elections confirms the crucial role of media in strengthening democracy and civic education. Throughout this elections period, the media played a critical role in reflecting on our advances, challenges and our developmental journey since 1994,” GCIS said.

Government has thanked the various partners from state entities but also various agencies, civil society and the non-government sector, as well as the media, who played an assertive role during the elections period, to curb disinformation and misinformation thus contributing to the integrity of information circulated during the electoral process.

Vote counting and establishing a new administration

 “As the counting process unfolds, the public is urged to refrain from sharing information in the form of pictures and videos that seek to declare elections results or incite violence pertaining to elections results. Elections results will be announced officially by the IEC as the body that is legally mandated to announce elections results,” Mnukwa said.

Government has reiterated that there will be no vacuum as South Africa journey’s to the establishment of the seventh democratic administration and whilst the country awaits the outcomes of the elections.

Government will continue to execute its Constitutional mandate of providing services to all South Africans. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 05/30/2024 - 12:27

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Regent Business School celebrates the exceptional achievements of its first cohort of Doctoral graduates in Business Administration

Location: MyPR

Regent Business School (RBS) proudly celebrates a significant milestone with the graduation of its inaugural cohort of doctoral candidates. This historic achievement not only reflects the high standard of academic rigour at RBS but also shines a light on the extraordinary dedication, sacrifice, and perseverance of our students, who have committed years of their lives …

Read moreRegent Business School celebrates the exceptional achievements of its first cohort of Doctoral graduates in Business Administration

ALX Leads Youth Unemployment Charge With Accessible, Award-Winning Tech Education

Location: MyPR

Cape Town, South Africa – May 21, 2024 : Against the backdrop of alarming youth unemployment rates in South Africa (SA), ALX, a leading career accelerator and tech training provider, is transforming youth employment and pioneering digital transformation by providing young individuals across the continent with access to cutting-edge technical skills. ALX’s impact was recently …

Read moreALX Leads Youth Unemployment Charge With Accessible, Award-Winning Tech Education

SA needs you to stand up and vote

Location: News

SA needs you to stand up and vote

All systems are in place to ensure that South Africans will have an opportunity to exercise their democratic right to vote on Wednesday, 29 May 2024.

The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said several measures have been put in place so that citizens can safely and securely cast their vote in the year that the country celebrates 30 years of freedom.

“The right to vote was fought for during our country’s liberation struggle and came at an extremely high price as many of our countrymen and women sacrificed their lives for us to have this right,” the statement read.

GCIS said voting is about the future and putting in place a government, which builds a better life for its people, a life materially better than in the years before democracy. 

As a nation, government believes that every citizen should rightfully be proud of the democracy, which gives a voice to everyone. 

The government agency also thanked all South Africans who cast their vote for their special votes.

Those who were approved for special votes but did not have the opportunity to cast their ballot can still do so on the official Election Day.  

The GCIS called on all South Africans, especially young and first-time voters, to exercise their democratic right to vote. 

In the run-up to the elections, there has also been a massive civil education drive by the Department of Basic Education in partnership with the Electoral Commission (IEC). 

This has resulted in almost all 539 000 young people aged 18 and 19 years old registered to vote. 

In collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs, all eligible youth in school have been provided with their identity documents (IDs) to ensure they can participate in this national milestone. 

Meanwhile, the same department extended its operational hours and will be opened until open until 9pm tonight to allow eligible voters to collect their smart ID cards or green ID books. 

“We thank all South Africans who have already taken up the opportunity at various Home Affairs branches across the country to collect their IDs.”

Temporary identification certificates can also be obtained for R70 and will be issued immediately for use. 

Voters can call the Home Affairs toll-free number 0800 60 11 90 for more information. 

Government said it was grateful to all its stakeholders, including the media and civil society organisations, who have played a crucial role in actively advocating for a free and fair campaigning process. 

The GCIS thanked traditional and Khoi-San leaders for the role they have played in ensuring voters exercise their democratic rights. 

“Since 1994, these leaders have been instrumental in our society and we call on them to continue to encourage all eligible voters to participate in the elections tomorrow.”

GCIS said the seventh democratic election was a turning point in the history of the country’s democracy due to the expansion of electoral participation, which broadened the pool of leadership choices for national and provincial elections. 

“We believe that this is a testament to the vibrant and inclusive democracy the country has built over the past three decades.”

In addition to polling stations being opened throughout the country, voting will also take place in prisons. A total of 14 753 inmates at correctional facilities have registered to vote in the elections, and they will get a chance to cast their ballot. 

Government said it was ready to combat and prevent any threats to the election such as intimidation, public violence, clashes, or community protests, and we remain convinced that citizens will be free to make their mark for democracy. 

Law enforcement agencies have made the necessary plans to safeguard the election process. This includes securing voting stations through static deployments, along with escorting voter material and IEC staff. 

Government strongly condemned the illegal demonstrations that sought to undermine the democratic process.

GCIS described the actions as unacceptable and assured citizens that necessary measures are in place to prevent such occurrences. 

“Citizens with legitimate grievances are encouraged to constructively raise these within available channels.”

Meanwhile, the agency calls on communities to be vigilant and to avoid being manipulated by those bent on committing criminal acts under the guise of a legitimate protest.

South Africans were also encouraged to demonstrate tolerance by respecting each other’s right to vote and uphold the democratic principles that our country stands for.

The GCIS urged the public to conduct themselves peacefully and allow the IEC to do its work freely without any intimidation. 

“We call on all eligible voters to go out in their numbers and vote to strengthen our democracy and determine their future.”

GCIS described elections as a collective voice that has immense power to build the South Africa we all want. 

“As South Africa proudly celebrates 30 years of freedom and democracy, let us celebrate our democracy by exercising our right to vote and ensuring a better future for all.”

Acting GCIS Director-General, Nomonde Mnukwa said: “Voting is one of the most visible means to be an active citizen and to make your voice heard, let us therefore come out in our numbers and renew our democracy”. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Wed, 05/29/2024 - 10:28

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Voters talk about changes they want to see in SA

Location: News

Voters talk about changes they want to see in SA

While government has made significant strides in improving the lives of South Africans since 1994, voters have expressed some of the changes that they would like to see in the country after the 2024 General Elections.

This is as eligible voters across the country are today exercising their right to vote in the country’s seventh democratic elections, which comes 30 years after South Africa held its first democratic election.

“We need to improve the quality of education. The country needs change the curriculum to be more skills based in order for the youth to have access to job opportunities or even start businesses. Creating more employment opportunities is key,” Sbongakonke Shelembe said.

The 41-year-old, who is voting in Pietermaritzburg today, called on government to focus on uprooting corruption in the public service.

“Focus should also be on running efficient municipalities to attract investment. The government also needs to control the influx of undocumented foreign nationals. Various town are run down because there is no proper zoning of businesses,” he said.

Kopano Moumakae, 22, expressed concern about inflation and high food prices.

“If we can control inflation [things would be better for citizens]. Food prices is something that I am very stressed about. I want to see investment into public infrastructure. I would like to see us using what we already have to create more opportunities for people that do not have jobs. Job creation and public infrastructure is something that speaks to me,” Kopano Moumakae said at a voting station in Montana, Pretoria.

Reflecting on the importance of voting, Moumakae said due to the history of the country, it was important for him to exercise his democratic right to vote.

Shelembe noted the myriad of challenges facing the country as his reason for voting.

“Voting is important because it presents an opportunity for one's voice to be heard,” he said.

Phumla Mugeri, a voter in Pretoria, spoke about the progress government has made to improve lives of ordinary South Africans.

“I have seen so many changes since 1994. I come from a rural area; we did not have roads, water and toilets but when you visit the area now you see significant improvements. I believe that in the 30 years of democracy many changes have occurred,” Mugeri said.

Voting is taking place from 7am until 9pm. The Electoral Commission (IEC) has assured citizens that no eligible voter will be turned away and that every voter in a queue by 9pm will be assisted.

Overall, 70 political parties are contesting the elections, 11 independent candidates, and the national contestants are 52. In total, there are over 14 903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the National and Provincial Legislatures. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 05/29/2024 - 09:21

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United Manganese of Kalahari Announces Continued Commitment to Tertiary Education through the UMK Bursary Scheme

Location: MyPR

United Manganese of Kalahari Announces Continued Commitment to Tertiary Education through the UMK Bursary Scheme Kuruman: United Manganese of Kalahari (UMK) today reaffirmed its support for educational development by championing tertiary education through creating opportunity. The company also celebrated more than a decade of helping school leavers achieve their educational goals. The UMK Bursary Scheme …

Read moreUnited Manganese of Kalahari Announces Continued Commitment to Tertiary Education through the UMK Bursary Scheme

Central University of Technology (CUT) triumphs at Intelligent ICT Awards Africa 2024, with Datacentrix wireless network project

Location: News

JOHANNESBURG – May 28, 2024 – Datacentrix, a leading hybrid ICT systems integrator and managed services provider, extends its congratulations to its client, the Central University of Technology (CUT), for its recent win at the inaugural Intelligent ICT Awards Africa 2024. CUT is a leading higher education institution based in South Africa’s Free State province, …

Read moreCentral University of Technology (CUT) triumphs at Intelligent ICT Awards Africa 2024, with Datacentrix wireless network project

The future of digital identity in South Africa (By Gur Geva)

Location: News
iiDENTIFii

By iiDENTIFii (https://iiDENTIFii.com/) CEO and co-founder Gur Geva. 

When it comes to accessing essential services, such as national medical care, grants and the ability to vote in elections to shape national policy, a valid identity document is critical. 

In South Africa, undocumented citizens are restricted in their ability to collect social grants or go to a hospital. Even those with valid IDs spend hours in queues owing to inefficient and protracted identification processes.

Faster, digitised services would have a transformative impact on the level of financial inclusion of the country's citizens. iProov's report (https://apo-opa.co/3VfYD37), "Unlocking financial inclusion with digital identity and biometric verification," emphasises that digital identity programmes open essential pathways for the unbanked and disenfranchised to access financial and welfare services and, in the case of governments, offer a reduced administrative burden and increased economic growth.

In theory, the positive impact is evident, but how can South Africa with its infrastructural challenges and high levels of inequality put this verification system into practice?

The challenge

An estimated 500 million (https://apo-opa.co/4aFwdEf) people in Africa are living without any form of valid legal identification. In response to this crisis, the African Union Commission is working on an initiative (https://apo-opa.co/3KmsnVP) to develop an interoperability framework for digital identity. The need for this is clear.

In South Africa, for example, lengthy identification processes see citizens queueing for up to three hours to renew a driver's license. Many people (https://apo-opa.co/452hke4) leave their homes in the dark and queue from dawn for their social security grants only to be turned away when the queue is cut because of system failures.

In an address to Parliament (https://apo-opa.co/3wU9pCU), Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, Minister of Home Affairs of South Africa, states that the main reason for the long queues lies in the State Information Technology (SITA) system often being down. The DHA relies on SITA for connectivity, especially in rural villages. Branch Appointment System (BAPS) kiosks that facilitate the live capture of IDs and passports have been set up to bridge this gap. While these efforts are useful, digital identity could transform these processes, whittling down lengthy queues by authenticating identity in a matter of seconds.

In fact, South Africa is pursuing digital identity in some form, through the form of a Smart ID card that stores face and fingerprint biometrics. However, this pioneering initiative is being held back by a restrictive, lengthy onboarding process. Smart ID cards can only be issued from a selection of offices with a ‘live capture system' as well as through certain banks that use the system in-house. This is not enough to implement secure digital identity at scale.

Reframing the identity conversation

Many of South Africa's challenges stem from systemic inequality. This inequality in access across gender, location and education lines has real implications for identity management (https://apo-opa.co/3KmsnVP). For this reason, the conversation needs to shift from identity being an administrative tool to identity being an essential human right (https://apo-opa.co/3KmsnVP).

Whether a person is applying for legal employment, registering at an address, setting up a phone contract, or opening a bank account, a proven identity that can be authenticated is an essential part of the process. Widespread, effective digital identification benefits citizens and generates significant economic value for governments and financial institutions as well.

As a result, a growing number of governments are teaming up with organizations worldwide to develop digital identity programmes that are not only convenient, but open up essential pathways for previously disadvantaged or marginalized individuals to help them access financial and welfare services.

Ground-breaking identity verification in practice

iProov and iDENTIFii have seen the positive impact of Dynamic Liveness Technology in delivering fast, secure and effortless passive face biometric authentication. In addition to being a strong digital alternative to historic forms of identity verification, its anti-spoofing technology is also effective in detecting and protecting against future cyber threats. The U.S. Federal Government lists iProov as a Synthetic Identity Fraud Mitigation Provider and government clients include the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the UK Home Office, the Australian Tax Office, and GovTech Singapore.

The UK Home Office EU Settlement Scheme, a digital application process for EEA nationals living in the UK post-Brexit, is a powerful example of the impact of digital identity on public services. The scheme was developed by iProov, WorldReach Software, and InnoValor, and provides a simple, secure, and usable solution for applicants to apply for settlement status online. The app includes key features such as remote identity documentation checking using NFC or OCR, and biometric identity authentication via iProov's Dynamic Liveness technology. The app has been extremely successful, with over 4.2 million applications completed, high levels of identity assurance, and an average satisfaction rating of 4.1 stars.

How open are citizens to digital identity?

The Digital Transformation Strategy (https://apo-opa.co/3KmsnVP) for Africa (2020-2030) highlights both the potential social and economic implications of digital IDs for Africans, noting that digital IDs not only support social development, but also enable meaningful participation in productive processes to generate economic growth, spur innovation, and support entrepreneurship. Besides being viewed as an enabler for realising all these policy objectives, digital IDs are seen as critical for the successful implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Digital identity programmes can bridge the identity gap by being accessible through even basic smartphones, thus eliminating barriers such as cost and complex application processes that often require travel. A case in point is the European Union Digital Identity Wallet (EUDIW) a decentralised, interoperable digital tool that aims to provide all 447 million EU citizens with the ability to easily store and exchange identity documents and credentials securely, while having full control over their data. Using identity verification will see important public and private services, such as online government services, online banking, remote prescriptions, and SIM registration become significantly more accessible.

The importance of inclusive and safe digital identity

For South Africans to truly embrace and reap the rewards of digital identity, accessibility and security are two critical factors government and other essential service providers must consider.

Adopting accessible verification models maximises inclusivity of digital identity programmes. Traditional remote verification methods, such as video calls or passwords, lack user convenience and may exclude individuals with language barriers or disabilities. By contrast, biometric face verification uses a front-facing camera and does not rely on the end user's technical abilities.

Security is also key as these initiatives must provide the maximum number of people with digital identities and financial access, while consistently mitigating the risks of cybersecurity threats. As with any technology that enables access to a broad range of secured data and financial services, there is a risk of digital identities being compromised for fraud, money laundering, or other illicit activities.

With generative AI contributing towards the sophistication of tools such as deepfakes, this risk is higher and the crime is easier to perpetrate than ever before. Liveness confirms that the person verifying their identity exists and is a live human being with the right to access the online account or service. It also assures that it is a real person and not a photo or mask or other presentation attack. It does not protect against scalable digital attacks like deepfake where synthetic images can be injected into device sensors.

Successful digital identity schemes, such as Estonia's, yield economic benefits for the government and businesses, and demonstrate the positive impact of such initiatives. Similarly, as the European Union's (EU) initiative progresses, other nations can learn valuable lessons from them and adopt strategies that foster a society characterised by enhanced inclusivity and economic prosperity.

Looking forward

While the local government is still rolling out digital identity, the financial services industry in South Africa has been an early adopter. Not only has it proven the ability of digital identity to be more efficient and safer, but it has also shown that it is possible to use biometrics at scale.

Several of iiDENTIFii's South African banking clients have been able to address downtime issues by using subsequent authentication. iiDENTIFii has prioritised this based on the understanding that an authentication process that keeps customers secure and engaged, is a successful one. For this reason, its platform is able to process individuals by storing their reference templates and enabling subsequent authentication. If financial institutions and the government collaborate in digitising government systems, it could make true financial inclusion and accessible digital identity at scale a reality, in a way that reaches all South Africans.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of iiDENTIFii.

About iiDENTIFii: 
iiDENTIFii (https://iiDENTIFii.com/) is an award-winning face authentication and identity verification platform that distinguishes itself through its use of 3D and 4D Liveness® detection. Purpose-built for enterprises across Africa and the Middle East, iiDENTIFii enables frictionless, scalable customer onboarding in seconds from anywhere and on any device. Founded in 2018, iiDENTIFii has become a proven key partner in multiple tier 1 African banks. The technology plugs seamlessly into existing infrastructures, including mobile and web-based platforms.

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Read moreThe future of digital identity in South Africa (By Gur Geva)

Top surfski competitors return to the Leatherback Rum Surfski Challenge presented by the Ocean Festival

Location: MyPR

This year’s World Ocean’s Day will be celebrated at the Leatherback Rum Surfski Challenge doubles race taking place at the second Ocean Festival. The 2024 edition, taking place at Scottburgh on Sunday, 9 June, welcomes some of the sports’ biggest competitors vying for their share of the R20 000 cash prize – among them 2023 …

Read moreTop surfski competitors return to the Leatherback Rum Surfski Challenge presented by the Ocean Festival

TVET students on NSFAS urged to submit personal banking details

Location: News

TVET students on NSFAS urged to submit personal banking details

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has reiterated its call for students at Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges to submit their banking details in order to receive their NSFAS allowances.

NSFAS Administrator, Freeman Nomvalo, made the call during a media briefing on progress relating to the disbursement of student allowances, student accommodation, and other related administrative reforms at the scheme, held in Pretoria on Monday.

Nomvalo said the scheme has devised a payment mechanism to address the payment of allowances for TVET students, and payments are currently being made directly to the students’ bank account, as announced on 26 April 2024.

Nomvalo said a total of 211 591 students' bank accounts have been verified, while a total of 7 160 failed the verification checks, due to various reasons, including bank accounts that do not belong to students, like parents’ bank accounts.

Nomvalo emphasised that the banking details provided must belong to the student to enable NSFAS to verify the information against the student’s details on scheme’s record and minimise the potential risks.

“We have requested all TVET students who do not have bank accounts to open the bank accounts with banks of their own choice to avoid delays in the payment of their allowances. I want to call upon all students who have already uploaded their personal banking details and have received a notification through the myNSFAS portal indicating that the verification of their banking details has failed to please re-submit their correct banking details on the portal,” Nomvalo said. 

While acknowledging the challenges experienced by university students; Nomvalo said the direct payment mechanism will currently be applicable to TVET college students, and the university students will continue to receive their allowance as through their institutions as arranged.

Addressing concerns on student accommodation

On student accommodation, Nomvalo said NSFAS is dealing with the issues relating to student accommodation, particularly the outstanding payments to private student accommodation landlords.

Nomvalo said a dedicated email and capacity has been established to address all disputes or concerns from landlords.

He called on all landlords to continue to deposit their disputes or concerns “only in so far as outstanding payments are concerned” to the email address. 

“The initial call for submission date for the concerns was 10 May 2024. I therefore would like to provide an extension to 31 May 2024, for all the landlords to continue to deposit their concerns to a dedicated email address at NSFASAccomProv@nsfas.org.za.

“All enquiries received will now be processed and will be paid end of May 2024. There may still be outstanding invoices at the end of May which will still need to be processed during the month of June,” Nomvalo said.

As part of proactive planning for future student accommodation, the Administrator said NSFAS have commenced with the planning for the national conference on future student accommodation. 

He said NSFAS intend to host the conference in September 2024 involving various stakeholders across the country, including private and public accommodation providers.

“A Task Team involving all the student accommodation stakeholders has been established to serve as a consultative forum to address all issue relating to student accommodation. This Task Team is expected to report back in the September conference. We do so in order to regularise private student accommodation to give greater accommodation,” Nomvalo said.

Additional capacity to address deficiencies

Meanwhile, Nomvalo announced that an additional capacity will be procured by the end of this month, to help strengthen the office of the Administrator, address capacity deficiencies, and deal with long outstanding matters, including the submission of financial statements and the Close Out Report. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 13:59

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Read moreTVET students on NSFAS urged to submit personal banking details

Let a Hundred Flowers Bloom in Africa: Africa Day 2024

Location: MyPR

Paul Terna Gbahabo is a research consultant and a PhD graduate in Development Finance at Stellenbosch Business School. In 1956 Mao Zedong, in a speech encouraging Chinese society to embrace diverse points of view, said, ‘‘Let a hundred flowers bloom, let a hundred schools of thought contend.” This analogy is particularly useful for African policymakers …

Read moreLet a Hundred Flowers Bloom in Africa: Africa Day 2024

Harnessing Innovation toward Africa’s Inclusive Growth.

Location: MyPR

Dr Velenkosini Matsebula is a Senior Lecturer in Development Finance at Stellenbosch Business School. As we commemorate Africa Day, we are reminded of the continent’s rich cultural heritage, its vibrant diversity, and its people’s resiliency. This day serves as a beacon of unity and progress for Africa. However, beneath the celebration lies a critical reflection …

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Totalsports Women’s Race continues to Empower Women and support PinkDrive in 2024

Location: MyPR

Promising to be the biggest Women’s Month celebration yet, the Totalsports Women’s Race proudly continues to empower women while supporting PinkDrive in 2024. The event is set to flood the streets of three major cities in an ocean of pink on Sunday, August 4th in Durban, Friday, August 9th in Cape Town, and Saturday, August …

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Vulture Protection, Wind Farms and Biodiversity in the Eastern Cape: The Complex Interplay

Location: MyPR

Makhanda, 24 May 2024 : The Eastern Cape of South Africa is a region of immense natural beauty and biodiversity. It is also a place where the interests of conservation and renewable energy are currently intersecting in complex ways. On one hand, organizations like VulPro are working tirelessly to protect vultures, a group of birds …

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Top local triathletes set to compete in the Oceans 8 Charity Swim 1 Mile event

Location: MyPR

The country’s first-of-its-kind open water swim, the Oceans 8 Charity Swim, welcomes two top contenders to the 1 Mile leg, renowned triathletes Jane Brewer and Glen Gore. These Arena Ambassadors will join competitors at the Durban Undersea Club for this epic charity-fundraising initiative taking place on Saturday, 15 and Sunday, 16 June. With the 1 …

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CSIR to use tool to predict 2024 elections results

Location: News

CSIR to use tool to predict 2024 elections results

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) announced it will once again be part of the South African elections, using its election prediction model for the 2024 National and Provincial Elections. 

This model was first introduced by the CSIR during the 1999 General Elections and will also be used when South Africans go to the polls on 29 May 2024.  

According to the institution, their election prediction model relies on two core principles, the analysis of voter behaviour patterns and the sequence in which voting results are announced on Election Day. 

“When combined, these two principles enable the team to group voters or voting districts based on their past voting behaviour, utilising a statistical clustering method. 

“When applied in previous elections, the model typically achieved a high degree of accuracy at a national level once approximately 5% of the results had been tallied.” 

The CSIR explained that the predictions become more stable and accurate as more voting districts are counted and once all voting districts have been declared. 

CSIR Chief Executive Officer, Dr Thulani Dlamini, clarified that the model was not a polling system, but a model that uses statistical and mathematical analysis to predict election outcomes. 

“It showcases how statistical clustering and some mathematical algorithms can achieve good predictions from a small sample of results. The election prediction model operates based on reducing the bias resulting from the ‘non-randomness’ of the incoming results that arise from the order in which the results are received,” he added. 

The predictive modelling capabilities also allow this to be tailor-made for other predictive analysis work. 

As one of its kind in the continent, CSIR has the capability of assisting other countries that may require such a tool to support election transparency and engagement. 

“The organisation possesses robust capabilities in mathematics and statistics, which are applied to deliver precise results and can be customised for various forms of predictive analysis and forecasting,” he added. 

The CSIR, an entity of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, is one of the leading scientific and technology research, development and implementation organisations in Africa.

The CSIR undertakes directed and multidisciplinary research and technological innovation, as well as industrial and scientific development, to improve the quality of life of all South Africans. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 05/24/2024 - 14:49

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Electronic payment system for child maintenance and other services suspended

Location: News

Electronic payment system for child maintenance and other services suspended

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DJCOD) has announced the temporary suspension of electronic payment system for third-party funds – including child maintenance – following “attempts to compromise the system”.

The department said an investigation into the incident is underway.

“In light of this development, child maintenance beneficiaries are urged to promptly visit their nearest court with their original identity documents to receive manual payments until the electronic service is fully restored.

“The Department has assembled a dedicated forensic team to thoroughly investigate any suspicious activity. We are committed to continually fortifying our systems to prevent and mitigate the risk of future breaches.

“We sincerely apologise to all beneficiaries for any inconvenience caused and deeply appreciate the patience and understanding during this period,” the DJCOD said.

Meanwhile, this morning (Friday), DJCOD Minister Ronald Lamola, is expected to preside over the launch and renaming of the refurbished Justice College.

The launch will also be attended by Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Sihle Zikalala, and Deputy Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court, Mandisa Maya. 

“Established in 1957, Justice College has grown into reputable institution, offering comprehensive training programs for legal practitioners. From its modest beginnings as Justice Training, it now encompasses diverse aspects of legal education, including specialised training for judicial officers, prosecutors and interpreters.

“[The] Justice College’s influence extends beyond South Africa’s borders. Officials from Swaziland, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, the Republic of South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda regularly attend our courses, fostering regional collaboration.

“The refurbished college boast[s] state-of-the-art training facilities, ensuring an optimal learning environment for future legal professionals,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 05/24/2024 - 09:31

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Correctional Services ready for inmates to vote on Election Day

Location: News

Correctional Services ready for inmates to vote on Election Day

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) says it is ready for the 2024 National and Provincial Elections to be conducted by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) next Wednesday.

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) says it is ready for the 2024 National and Provincial Elections to be conducted by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) next Wednesday.

According to the department, some 14 753 inmates at correctional facilities have registered to vote in the elections.

“DCS has been working with the IEC in ensuring that all logistical aspects of the voting process are meticulously planned and executed. The environment is thus conducive for the IEC to fulfil its mandate through the provision of ballot papers, secure voting booths and other necessary logistics at correctional facilities.

“Comprehensive voter education was also provided to inmates in order to ensure they are informed about their rights and the voting process,” the department said.

Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola said: “The measures we have put in place are designed to ensure that eligible inmates can exercise their right to vote in a secure and transparent manner. Hence, this initiative marks a significant step forward in ensuring that our democratic processes are inclusive and just.”

Section 24 B of the Electoral Act makes provision for prisoners to vote in an election for the National Assembly or a provincial legislature, a person who on Election Day is in prison and whose name appears on the voter’s roll for another district, is deemed for that Election Day to have been registered by his or her name having been entered on the voter’s roll for the voting district in which he or she is in prison.

Therefore, the department said, inmates registered before “admission to a correctional centre shall not be denied an opportunity to cast their votes”.

“The transfer and release or placement of inmates on the voting date will be managed in such a way that it does not impede their right to vote. Independent observers will be allowed to monitor the election process within correctional facilities as per the prescripts of the Independent Electoral Commission.

“Observation of the voting process by political parties will be limited to two representatives per political party. This is due to limited space, whilst taking into cognisance the security imperatives of correctional centres,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 05/24/2024 - 09:15

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