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Introduction In the world of precious metals, gold coins hold a special place. They are not just assets but often carry historical and sentimental value. While much is said about buyers in this market, understanding those who sell gold coins is equally important. Their motivations, challenges, and needs form a crucial part of the gold …
Work seekers warned not to fall for jobs scam
The Department of Employment and Labour has warned work seekers not to pay for employment opportunities.
The department has noted with concern a number of scams that keep popping up periodically, where unemployed people are promised jobs at a fee.
The latest scam is one that uses the department’s name for promises of so-called admin worker jobs, where scammers request unsuspecting members of the public to pay a refundable fee of R250 at PEP stores for background checks.
“Work seekers are advised not to deposit any fees and share their contact and personal information, thus compromising their security.
“No person may charge a fee to any work seeker for providing employment services to that work seeker. This is according to the Employment Services (ES) Act.
“The Employment Services Act further states that a private employment agency must not deduct any amount from the remuneration of an employee or require or permit an employee to pay any amount in respect of placing that employee with an employer,” the department said.
The department further highlighted that an unemployment rate of 31.9% has presented a fertile ground for scammers to dupe the public with promises of job offers in return for a fee.
The Department of Employment and Labour, through the Public Employment Services (PES) branch, as a custodian of Employment Services Act, must provide the following public employment services free of charge to members of the public in a manner that is open and accessible:
• matching work seekers with available work opportunities;
• registering work seekers;
• registering job vacancies and other work opportunities;
• facilitating the placing of work seekers with employers or in other work opportunities;
• advising work seekers on access to education and training;
• advising workers on access to social security benefits;
• providing specialised services to assist vulnerable work seekers;
• facilitating the exchange of information among labour market participants, including employers, workers and work seekers, private employment agencies, Sector Education and Training Authorities and training providers;
• facilitating the employment of foreign nationals in a manner that is consistent with the object of this Act and the Immigration Act; and
• generally, performing any other function in terms of employment law or prescribed in terms of this Act.
“As soon as you’re asked to pay anything towards recruitment and related employment services know that this is likely to be a scam. If someone or an organisation requests you to pay fees, report them at Department of Employment and Labour,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 02/05/2024 - 11:57
W Cape Second Chance Matric Programme registration closes on Friday
The Western Cape Education Department has encouraged all learners, who want to register for the Second Chance Matric Support Programme, to do so before the closing date of 9 February 2024.
The programme is aimed at those who have not met the requirements to pass the National Senior Certificate (NSC) or the extended Senior Certificate (SC) examinations.
The programme is also open to those who want to improve their results.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to obtain one’s NSC and it should not be missed. The content is fresh in the candidates’ minds, so it would be beneficial to register to write sooner, rather than having to wait a whole year. Every candidate that did not pass should continue doing whatever they can to complete Grade 12,” Western Cape Education spokesperson Bronagh Hammond said.
Hammond said approximately 30% of the candidates in the Western Cape who did not pass required one more subject to pass, and about 20% needed two subjects.
In order to prepare for these examinations, Hammond said candidates can take advantage of various matric resources on the department’s website: https://wcedonline.westerncape.gov.za/matric-support, and these includes study guides, video tutorials and examination papers and memos.
Hammond said the programme in the province also offers private candidates who are registered to write the May/June examinations free tutoring classes.
The tutoring classes will cover subjects, including Afrikaans First Additional Language; Agricultural Sciences; Business Studies; Economics; English First Additional Language; Geography; History; Life Sciences; Mathematics; Mathematical Literacy, and Physical Sciences
Hammond noted that Second Chance Matric Support Centres have been established in selected areas in the province and all tuitions are offered for free.
Registration to enter the programme has started. Information on registration and tutoring venues can be found at: https://wcedonline.westerncape.gov.za/second-chance-matric-programme.
Registration forms can be found on the WCED website: https://wcedonline.westerncape.gov.za/national-senior-certificate-nsc-exams
The programme is expected to start at the beginning of March 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 02/05/2024 - 12:05
WorldSkills competitions hold value for youth
Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Deputy Minister Buti Manamela, has emphasised the importance of the WorldSkills Competitions saying that they hold immense value for young people.
“By participating in these competitions, they not only showcase their skills but also gain exposure to international standards and best practices.
“The experience gained at these competitions is invaluable and can shape the future trajectory of their careers. Therefore, we must continue to support and promote the participation of our young people in such events,” Manamela said on Thursday.
The Deputy Minister was speaking during the opening of the WorldSkills South Africa National Competition at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Durban International Convention Centre (DICC) in KwaZulu-Natal.
The WorldSkills Conference is taking place under the theme “Skills Change Lives”.
World Skills South Africa has biennial national competitions where students from Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges and Universities of Technology compete in various artisan trades.
This year, students will participate in 21 different skill areas and the winners will represent South Africa at the World Skills International competition in Lyon, France in September 2024.
The Deputy Minister said the department’s responsibility extends beyond the organisation of events and competitions.
“We are committed to improving the quality of apprenticeship and artisan training across the board. We recognise the importance of providing the necessary support to ensure the production of highly skilled artisans who can contribute meaningfully to our economy.
“To achieve this, we are working towards aligning our training programs with industry needs. We are constantly evolving our curriculum to ensure relevance and responsiveness to changing market demands.”
Government is also implementing robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure the quality of training provided by higher education institutions.
He added that the post-school education and training system is required to respond to the needs of the economy and the labour market through imparting skills.
This is done in collaboration with various stakeholders such as Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges, organised business, organised labour, and many other stakeholders.
Last year, the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande launched the National Plan for Post-School Education and Training (NPPSET).
Launched in September 2023, the NPPSET showcases government’s continuous effort towards achieving an improved, transformed, expanded, responsive and articulated post-school education and training.
Manamela also highlighted the importance of effective coordination and collaboration among all stakeholders.
“It is through our collective efforts that we can overcome the challenges and harness the opportunities posed by skills development.
“Let us continue to work hand in hand, leveraging each other's strengths to create an environment that is conducive to the growth and success of our apprenticeship and artisan development initiatives,” he said.
Support
In preparation of the WorldSkills International Competition taking place in Lyon later this year, the Deputy Minister said the department has taken robust measures to support the competitors throughout their journey.
He said the department’s foremost plan is to provide comprehensive support to competitors as it is understood that proper training and skill development play a pivotal role in achieving success at such competitions.
“Therefore, we have planned a series of initiatives to enhance skills development within our participating teams. To begin with, we will organise workshops and training sessions led by industry experts and experienced professionals for our national competition winners.
“These sessions will focus on honing the technical skills of our competitors and preparing them for the challenges they will face in Lyon. Our goal is to equip them with the knowledge and expertise needed to excel in their respective fields.”
He further encouraged everyone to actively participate in fruitful deliberations throughout the conference, sharing their valuable insights and experiences. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 02/01/2024 - 15:46
Over 32 000 beds registered on NSFAS platforms available for students
Out of the 40 522 beds registered on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) platforms at Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, 32 272 have been accredited and are available for registered NSFAS-funded students.
NSFAS Acting Board Chairperson, Professor Laurens Van Staden, said about 8 250 registered beds on NSFAS platforms in TVET colleges are in the process of being accredited.
“For universities, out of the total of 72 241 beds registered, 43 581 have been accredited and are available for registered NSFAS-funded students, and about 28 420 are in the process of being accredited,” Van Staden said.
NSFAS is piloting the accreditation of private student accommodation in 17 universities and 23 TVET colleges for the 2024 academic year.
Through the pilot programme, NSFAS aims to ensure that student accommodation service providers provide 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, among others.
From 18 January 2024, NSFAS provided access to a portal for all institutions to view the available beds.
The NSFAS board, led by Van Staden, met with the South African Union of Students (SAUS) Executive, led by President Yandisa Ndzoyiya on Thursday to discuss the entity’s state of readiness for the beginning of the academic year.
“All institutions have been provided with access to the NSFAS accommodation portal in order to view the available beds. Institutions must note that accrediting agents are continuing with the process of accreditation and the list will be updated daily," said Van Staden. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 02/02/2024 - 09:52
Residents of the City’s emergency housing development face unemployment, extreme heat, and overcrowding. But “we have achieved a lot” says a community member
The 2023 SA matric class and higher education-graduates face a challenging job market and the reality of joining over 3.3 million past graduates struggling to find employment. Amid soaring unemployment rates, which are one of the highest on the continent and globe, and facing economic challenges, the youth’s confidence in our nation is plummeting. In …
SA to advance the African agenda with focus on AfCFTA
South Africa places great importance on the African Union (AU) Summits, as the country forges ahead with its foreign policy of the advancement of the African agenda.
This is according to International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, who was briefing the media on Wednesday on developments in her department.
The summit, which will take place on 17 and 18 February in Addis Ababa in Ethiopia, will focus on education.
Last year, the AU finalised a 10-year review of Agenda 2063.
A key recommendation, Pandor explained, is that the AU Member States must accelerate the implementation of the Agenda 2063 flagship projects that are aimed specifically at fast-tracking continental integration.
The project particularly focuses on trade and market integration, free movement of people and infrastructure development.
However, top of the agenda is the operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), in which South Africa is playing a leading role.
“We are especially pleased that President [Cyril] Ramaphosa will officially witness the launch of South Africa’s first shipment and preferential trading under the AfCFTA on 31 January 2024, at the Port of Durban,” she said.
President Ramaphosa is expected to attend and participate in several high-level committee meetings of the Assembly.
These include the meeting of the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC), which will be held to reaffirm Africa’s position on climate change as advocated during the Conference of the Parties (COP28) held in the United Arab Emirates last year.
In his capacity as the Chairperson of the Presidential Infrastructure Championing Initiative, the country’s First Citizen annually hosts a meeting on the margins of the AU Summit to provide a progress report on infrastructure projects.
The initiative aims to enhance infrastructure development in sectors such as transport, information communication and technology, water and sanitation, and energy in South Africa and throughout the region and continent.
These areas, she said, are critical to the implementation of the AfCFTA.
The President is also expected to chair a high-level meeting of the Committee of Five (C5) on South Sudan to review and provide political guidance on the progress made in the implementation of the revitalised agreement on the resolution of conflict in South Sudan.
BRICS
She also announced that Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have confirmed they are joining the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) bloc after being invited to last year.
“However, you’d be aware that Argentina has written to indicate that they will not act on this successful application by the previous administration to become full members of BRICS. And we accept their decision, particularly given that 30 countries have now written to Russia, expressing interest in becoming members.”
NAM Summit
The Minister also touched on the recent summits of the Heads of State and Government of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the Group of 77 and China, convened in Uganda, last month.
She told journalists that the NAM Summit identified five priority areas.
These include regional and international peace and security; the fight against terrorism; migration and humanitarian crises; human trafficking; and the Sustainable Developmental Goals.
“In his statement to the NAM, President Ramaphosa confirmed that South Africa will remain steadfast in advancing its non-aligned approach to the maintenance of international peace and security by advocating for the peaceful political settlement of disputes and inclusive dialogue.”
Following the NAM meeting, Pandor led the South African delegation to the G77 and China Summit.
The G77 and China Summit is the largest negotiating bloc in the United Nations (UN) representing most developing countries and over 80% of the world’s population.
“The focus of the summit was on South-South cooperation in the areas of trade, investment, sustainable development, climate change, poverty eradication, and the digital economy,” she explained. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 02/01/2024 - 12:52
Government leaders take stock of sixth administration
With the term of the sixth administration coming to an end, government leaders are discussing the implementation and progress of the priorities that it set to achieve at the beginning of its term.
“This is the final Cabinet Lekgotla for the term of the sixth administration. It will look at the work done on the Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF), which is a government programme that sets priorities that we had to implement in this administration,” Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday in Pretoria.
The MTSF 2019-2024 is both a five-year implementation plan and an integrated monitoring framework, which focuses on the seven priorities and related interventions of the sixth administration of government, and the integrated monitoring framework focuses on monitoring outcomes, indicators and targets towards the achievement of the priorities.
The priorities of the MTSF include building a capable, ethical and developmental state; economic transformation and job creation; education, skills and health and consolidating the social wage through reliable and quality basic services.
It further prioritises spatial integration, human settlements and local government, social cohesion and safe communities as well as a better Africa and world.
“We are also going to look at the progress that we have made in implementing the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP) and the progress we are making in preparing for the National Health Insurance (NHI).
“Given the lessons we have learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, we think it is a priority that it must be signed during this period so that the full implementation can be taken in the seventh administration. This is why we are looking at the progress of its implementation,” the Minister said.
Work that has been done to deal with load shedding will also be discussed.
“Due to the challenges in the freight and logistics, we are going to look at that in line with the work that we have done with the ERRP. We will also look at crime because we can’t rebuild the economy if we are not dealing with the crime,” the Minister said.
She said the meeting would assess the impact of crime in terms of the vandalism of critical infrastructure whether it be electricity or the freight and logistics sector and any other infrastructure.
Ntshavheni was addressing members of the media on the sidelines of the Cabinet Lekgotla, which has been convened by President Cyril Ramaphosa from 1-2 February 2024.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Premiers, Directors-General and the leadership of the South African Local Government Association are in attendance.
The outcome of the meeting will chart a way forward for the year to be announced by the President during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) taking place on Thursday, 8 February 2024, at 7pm.
“We will also discuss the safety of South Africans and critical to that is gender- based violence and femicide (GBVF). We will look at the progress we are making to address GBVF and whether we are succeeding with the whole of society approach.
“We are also looking at the progress that has been made in dealing with corruption in terms of putting together the Anti-Corruption Advisory Council (NACAC) and the work that is being done to support the establishment of the council.
“We are looking at the integrated work that is be done to address with the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the Fusion Centre,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 02/01/2024 - 13:51
Nzimande pays tribute to Professor Mokgokong
Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, has hailed the late Professor Mochichi Samuel Mokgokong, as one of our country’s most decorated academics and scholars.
Nzimande joined the nation and the academic fraternity in mourning the passing of Mokgokong, who passed away last week following a battle with cancer.
Mokgokong was well known for heading the team responsible for separations of craniopagus conjoined twins and has trained and mentored more than 20 neurosurgeons.
Nzimande highlighted that Mokgokong has a long and distinguished academic career in the medical field, which has seen him form part of some of the most pioneering surgical teams.
Some of the positions Mokgokong held in his illustrious career include Professor Emeritus of the University of Pretoria, Head of Tembisa Hospital’s Adult Intensive Care and High Care Units; Professor, Chief Specialist, and Head of the Neurosurgery Department at the University of Pretoria’s Steve Biko Academic Hospital.
Paying tribute to the life of South Africa's first black neurosurgeon, Nzimande said, owing to his commitment to research excellence and outstanding academic leadership, Mokgokong was honoured with a number of national and international awards.
“As part of his commitment to transformation in the medical field, he also proudly assumed the role of an activist academic and never missed an opportunity to encourage young black people to enter the medical field.
“The passing of Professor Mokgokong constitutes an incalculable loss to our post school education and training sector, and I believe we have an obligation to uphold his legacy of research excellence and visionary leadership,” Nzimande said.
The Minister has, on behalf of the department conveyed his heartfelt condolences to Mokgokong’s family, friends, and colleagues. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 02/01/2024 - 12:12
It’s been an incredible journey for High Gear and an even more remarkable one for the programme’s students and graduates. South Africa’s automotive economy relies heavily on the skills of our mechanical and electrical engineers and High Gear’s proactive approach to revolutionizing the talent pipeline has not only created jobs, but also empowered the automotive …
Closing South Africa's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) gap will require significant infrastructure and related spending, informed by the right objectives and relevant metrics, according to a joint study by the World Bank and the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA), launched today. The report, entitled: Going Beyond the Infrastructure Funding Gap - A South African Perspective, quantifies the spending needed in education, transport, and water and sanitation to achieve the related SDGs.
The United Nations adopted the SDGs in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity. South Africa's commitment to the SDGs is embodied in the National Development Plan Vision 2030. While progress has been made, South Africa has significant work ahead to achieve the SDGs. According to the Sustainable Development Report 2022, South Africa ranks 113 out of 161 countries in terms of its performance in the 17 SDGs.
According to the study, South Africa needs to spend between R4.8 trillion and R6.2 trillion ($254 billion to $329 billion) on transport, water and sanitation, basic education, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) between the years 2022 and 2030, to close the SDGs gap in these sectors. The figures for the infrastructure spending are equivalent to spending between 8.7% and 11.2% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per year on average. The study asserts that the solution is not always to spend more, but to spend better on the right objectives, with the use of relevant metrics.
The study highlights infrastructure cost drivers and the implications of different policy choices. In addition, the sectoral analyses present detailed results on the spending needs under several scenarios and recommendations to close the gap.
“Infrastructure is required to support the progress towards the 2030 SDG agenda. Education, electricity, water and sanitation, and transport infrastructure are required to improve access to basic services and support inclusive economic growth. This innovative study contributes to the evidence-based body of knowledge, towards understanding the service gap, and the ambitions of each sector, in determining where investments should be made,” says Marie Francoise Marie-Nelly, World Bank Country Director for South Africa.
“Closing the SDG gap will require significant infrastructure and related spending,” says Boitumelo Mosako, Chief Executive Officer of the DBSA. “In addition to the sectoral analyses, this study provides an assessment of the exposure of infrastructure assets to natural hazards and the investment needs to increase their resilience. Our joint study further provides a macroeconomic analysis, which examines the growth implications of the proposed spending and the projected funding gap.”
Achieving the SDGs requires adequate infrastructure in various sectors. This includes good-quality school and college facilities to support student outcomes. Reliable transportation infrastructure and affordable services are also essential for people to access basic services and job opportunities, allowing firms to stay competitive and create better jobs. Furthermore, it involves establishing high-quality water and sanitation infrastructure to provide affordable and safe services. Lastly, resilient infrastructure is essential for sustainable progress towards the SDGs, ensuring long-lasting and environmentally responsible development.
A key finding of the study is that poor quality and management of infrastructure and services undermine the achievement of SDGs. Thus, investing in infrastructure must be supported by proper management, maintenance, and good governance.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.
On 16 January 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) in South Africa, was notified by the National Department of Health (NDoH) of two newly laboratory confirmed cases of cholera in the Limpopo Province. These were from Musina and Blouberg Sub-districts in Vhembe and Capricorn Districts respectively. From 17-20 January 2024, in a swift and decisive move, WHO through its Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) cluster, joined NDoH, and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) as part of the national team that conducted a support visit to assess and enhance readiness and response to cholera. The assessment was jointly conducted with the provincial health counterparts. This was in recognition of the potential risk for further spread of cholera, both locally and across borders.
As of 20 January 2024, South Africa reported three laboratory confirmed imported cholera cases. These comprised of two cases in Limpopo and one additional case which was reported later from Gauteng province. All cases had recent travel history to Zimbabwe.
The national team assessed various pillars including coordination, surveillance, case management, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), infection prevention control (IPC), and risk communication and community engagement (RCCE) in the readiness and response to cholera at provincial, affected districts, and health facility tiers.
Some of the challenges observed in the field included the need for strengthening triaging, medical waste management at health facility level, and garbage management at community level. In addition, the national team recognized the need to intensify Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials in local languages, improving WASH and a critical need to strengthen cross border collaboration.
WHO's swift involvement and participation in the national team's response to cholera cases in Limpopo, demonstrated continued willingness, dedication, and support to work with the NDoH and partners, to address the risk of Cholera and other public health emergencies in the country.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) - South Africa.
Introduction: In the 29 years since the end of apartheid, South Africa has made considerable progress, yet the transformative change envisaged remains elusive. As a civil servant committed to change through the Hamba Bamba Funda organization, advocating for early childhood development from conception to two years, I witness persistent systems failures, especially in education. This …
As millions of South African learners head back to school. One of the biggest lessons they need to learn in life to help them succeed is financial literacy, which needs to be first taught from home. says Stian de Witt, executive head of financial planning at NMG Benefits. A Cambridge University study suggests that by …
Deadline looms for NSFAS 2024 application cycle
Grade 12 learners and students, who wish to enter the post-school system and do not have financial assistance to continue their studies, have until Wednesday to submit their applications for 2024 funding.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) officially opened the bursary application season for the 2024 academic year on 21 November 2023, and the cycle will close on 31 January 2024.
Higher Education, Science and Innovation Deputy Minister, Buti Manamela, has urged all students who wish to study in any of the public universities and Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges to submit their applications before the closing date.
Manamela said NSFAS is currently funding more than 1.4 million students at public universities and TVET colleges.
“If you have Grade 10, 11 or 12 and want to study at either a university or TVET college, and are a SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) beneficiary, or have a household income less than R350 000, you can apply to qualify. You [also] need to further apply to one or two of our public institutions.
“The NSFAS funds students studying law, engineering, medicine, music, carpentry, plumbing, accounting, history, or any undergraduate qualification at a public institution. Visit www.nsfas.org.za and create a user profile under myNSFAS. All you need is a cellphone or computer that has access to the internet and an email address,” Manamela said.
NSFAS covers tuition, accommodation, learning material and a living allowance.
SASSA beneficiaries are approved almost immediately. According to the department, the scheme has provisionally funded at least 657 703 SASSA recipient applicants.
The department has also urged all 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.
NSFAS has also 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 the WhatsApp 078 519 8006 or USSD *120*67327 to track their application status. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 01/30/2024 - 10:57
New initiative set to create job opportunities for seafarers
Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga has announced a new initiative aimed at enhancing maritime employment opportunities for South African seafarers.
“This program is not just about creating job opportunities; it is about nurturing a skilled workforce that will competently navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern maritime world,” Chikunga said on Tuesday in Cape Town.
The Minister said the Seafarer Employment and Development Programme (SEDP) will be launched in the first quarter of the new financial year.
It will provide training, mentorship, and job placement assistance to qualifying Seafarers and will serve as an international collaborative maritime research centre to address the ever-evolving needs of the maritime industry.
“This programme will play a crucial role in bolstering the employability of our seafarers and providing our seafarers with the necessary skills and expertise to excel globally. It is an initiative that underlines our commitment to not only foster growth within the maritime sector, but also contribute significantly to our national economy,” Chikunga said.
In February, the Department of Transport will be convening with industry stakeholders to discuss the workings of the SEDP.
“This gathering will be an opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue, share insights, and collaboratively shape a programme that is robust, sustainable, and aligned with the industry's evolving needs,” the Minister said.
She made these remarks during the handover of the SA Agulhas, a former research vessel, which served as a critical asset in maritime education, training, and polar research.
“I am happy to confirm that with this handover, we have a firm commitment from our German Counterparts and JS Maritime represented by Captain Stefan Bulow, who will be the new owners that our aspirations for seafarer employment creation will be realised.
“The handover of the SA Agulhas is thus a strategic move on our part, ensuring that this historic vessel continues to contribute significantly under new stewardship while aligning with our national interests.”
She said the handover marked not just a transition of ownership but symbolises government’s enduring commitment to maritime excellence and innovation driven by strategic partnerships.
“As we turn this page, we are not merely looking back at her glorious past but are firmly focused on the future she heralds – a future where South Africa continues to assert its presence on the global maritime stage.
“When I got a briefing from SAMSA [South African Maritime Safety Authority] on the intended future use for the vessel, and upon learning that the vessel will continue as a platform to further the research agenda that informs the future of our planet, I was made proud once more about my association with the SA Aghulus,” the Minister said. –SAnews.go.za
nosihle
Tue, 01/30/2024 - 15:17
Mashatile calls on citizens, corporates to financially support matrics who want to study further
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called on citizens, the private sector and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to join forces with government to offer financial help to youngsters who wish to further their studies.
The Deputy President was speaking on Tuesday at the Vincent Tshabalala Education Trust Annual Bursary Awards in San Kopano, Alexandra, Johannesburg.
He also congratulated the Matric Class of 2023 for achieving a national pass rate of 82.9%, which is the highest in the history of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams.
“The dedication to your studies is truly commendable and is the reason we have gathered here to acknowledge your accomplishments. In general, the matric pass rate of 2023 is a good story for our country to tell, as it shows how the education system has transformed over the past 30 years.
“Once upon a time, it was difficult for a black child to achieve a Bachelor’s pass and have the opportunity to apply at any institution of higher learning.”
However, according to the Deputy President, due to the measures put in place by government over the years, more black children from underprivileged communities are studying at higher learning institutions.
“Government is implementing measures to enhance access to education, especially in communities that are most vulnerable and structurally marginalised,” Mashatile told the attendees.
Government, he said, is also making headway with the implementation of the three-stream curriculum model, which marks a significant change in emphasis towards more vocational and technical education.
He also spoke about the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), which provides financial support to eligible students from low-income households to cover tuition fees, accommodation and study materials.
“While these government initiatives are instrumental for transformation, we still urge communities, the corporate sector, and NGOs to collaborate with government in offering financial aid and other kinds of developmental support to deserving students.
“As a community, we must never deter from achieving our goal of nurturing our youth so that they can be leaders and the change-makers of tomorrow,” he said.
The Deputy President paid homage to his late friend and comrade, Vincent Tshabalala, a founder of the Alexandra Youth Congress (AYCO) and member of the ANC’s military wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe. Tshabalala died in a battle with the apartheid police in Alexandra in 1985.
Today, hundreds of learners from the five Alexandra high schools have been awarded bursaries and some of those who have completed their studies are now chartered accountants, engineers, IT specialists, lawyers, lecturers and auditors.
“The trust appreciates the role that communities play in developing the youth. I believe that community-based development organisations can make a difference in more meaningful ways than the government or the private sector,” said Mashatile.
He encouraged the community to embrace the opportunities for local organisations to collaborate and form partnerships that will contribute to the overall wellbeing of the youth.
These community-led initiatives, he said, include efforts to strengthen and advance early childhood development, adult education and skills training.
Mashatile pleaded with the community to collaborate on the development and improvement of schools, libraries, and other educational facilities to establish a favourable atmosphere for learning.
“If we all work together to improve our community, we will be able to address the high rates of crime, gender-based violence, substance abuse, and other social ills that are eating away at the youth.
“As active community members, we have a responsibility to safeguard and lead our youth toward a path of greater success.”
The Deputy President also congratulated the learners who received awards for their outstanding performance. “We also pledge our support and guidance to these young people. We want you to know that we will be here for you throughout your academic journey.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 01/30/2024 - 15:33
The Matric Class of 2023 achieved a pass rate of 82,9%, surpassing the 80,1% recorded the year before with an improvement of 2.8 percentage points. Basic Education Minister Angie Motshkega pointed out that the record-high pass rate, in both number and percentage, was the highest attained in the entire history of the National Senior Certificate …
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Following a recrewing effort, the hospital ship, Africa Mercy®, has now departed from the Port of East London for service within the nation of Madagascar for the next ten months.
During the eight-month refit in Durban's Dormac Shipyard, the ship underwent extensive repairs and maintenance to prolong and improve the vessel's service life and quality of medical services.
Highlights of the Africa Mercy's® refurbishment included an information technology (IT) upgrade enhancing the ship's operating theatre functionality and performance by enabling seamless coordination between the Africa Mercy® and Mercy Ships' latest hospital ship, the Global Mercy™, currently serving the nation of Sierra Leone in West Africa. Upgrades will support the provision of essential training for local doctors, fostering the development of in-country healthcare professionals. Additional improvements included the modernization of the galley, upgrades to the elevator system, and remodeling of several cabin spaces, enabling the ship's community to better serve those in need of surgical care.
Brenda van Straten, Director, Mercy Ships, South Africa, says: “The refit was part of a broader five-year initiative to ensure that the Africa Mercy® can continue the provision of life-changing surgeries and training over the next decade. In parallel with the Ship's refurbishment, Mercy Ships conducted eight Safer Anesthetics from Education (SAFE) courses in South Africa this past year, impacting 236 health professionals in the region.”
The courses in South Africa focused on rural and state hospitals where junior doctors were in vital need of practical approaches to managing their patients. A total of 58 South African anesthetists partnered with Mercy Ships to provide the training.
The ship's service in Madagascar is part of a five-year investment in Education, Training, and Advocacy efforts in combination with a surgical schedule, including maxillofacial and ENT, general, pediatric specialized general, pediatric orthopedic, reconstructive plastics, ophthalmic, women's health, as well as dental care.
“Madagascar faces a shortage of surgical support from both local and international partners, especially in the most vulnerable areas. We appreciate Mercy Ships' approach to reaching underserved communities. As we open 28 district hospitals, each requiring at least two surgeons, we look forward to collaborating with Mercy Ships to strengthen our surgical capacity,” shared Dr. Lethicia Lydia Yasmine, secretary general for the Ministry of Health, Madagascar.
A 2016 study found that only 20% of the population can access surgical services within two hours, and up to 95% of the population would face financial ruin if they required surgery. With approximately 20 physicians for every 100,000 people, surgical treatment feels out of reach for many.
The ten-month field service will be the fourth visit since 1996, with the most recent in 2015-2016. Over these three previous field services, Mercy Ships worked with the government and the Ministry of Health to provide 6,425 surgical procedures and over 52,000 dental procedures. In addition to providing life-changing surgical and dental care, Mercy Ships has a historic focus on education having trained a total of 2,019 healthcare professionals in Madagascar to date.
Mercy Ships still has open volunteer roles for project directors, a clinical training coordinator, informatics specialists, as well as ward nurses, IT professionals, cooks, teachers, plumbers, and electricians. For more information visit www.MercyShips.co.za
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mercy Ships.
Hi-res photos and general Mercy Ships B-Roll video footage are available upon request.
For more information contact:
Brenda van Straten
Director, South Africa
Mercy Ships
Email: info.zaf@mercyships.org
Website: www.MercyShips.co.za
About Mercy Ships:
Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with African nations for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact.
Each year, more than 3,000 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world's two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy® and the Global Mercy™. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical, obstetric and anesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal. For more information, visit MercyShips.org and follow @MercyShips on social media.
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