engineering

7 August 2024

Roadshows to address outstanding student accommodation payments

Location: News

Roadshows to address outstanding student accommodation payments

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) will be hosting roadshows across the country to engage directly with the landlords affected by outstanding payments of student accommodation allowances.

NSFAS Administrator, Freeman Nomvalo, said that in response to accommodation providers’ concerns, NSFAS has in the past two months processed bulk catch up payments of accommodation allowances for all legitimate claims.

Nomvalo said that as at 31 July 2024, NSFAS disbursements for private student accommodation had reached R1 billion.

However, Nomvalo acknowledged that there are some landlords who still remain aggrieved.

The important issue to be addressed now is to ensure that all payments are done on time as this is the main remaining “pain point for accommodation providers.”

The Administrator announced that the roadshows will kick off in KwaZulu-Natal on Wednesday, 07 August 2024.

“I will be taking all critical functions responsible for student data and private student accommodation. I have also extended invitations to our colleagues at universities and Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector, to ensure we all work together in resolving these challenges experienced by our beneficiaries and the landlords,” Nomvalo said.

In response to the challenges and stabilising the organisation, Nomvalo highlighted some of the projects that have been launched, including the Organisational Re-engineering and Re-alignment Project; ICT and Business Processing Review Project; making NSFAS accessible to students and stakeholders; and planning for 2025 and beyond.

“The conclusion of Organisational Re-engineering and Re-alignment Project will result into a new resource allocation model fit for the purpose and function of the size and shape of NSFAS. It will also provide a greater alignment of functions to improve the efficiency of NSFAS.

“The conclusion of the ICT and Business Processing Review Project will deliver a more efficient ICT system that provides for a seamless interface and data sharing between NSFAS and its key stakeholders including universities and TVET’s. The newly envisaged system is also intended to improve the management of applications for bursaries, loans, and appeals,” Nomvalo said.

He said a feasibility study is intended to consider various regionalisation models and cost implications looking at the location of beneficiaries.

“The appointed team will also be engaging with the PSET (Post School Education and Training) stakeholders to determine the most feasible model. The intention is to make NSFAS more accessible and responsive to its stakeholders,” Nomvalo said.

Alleged procurement irregularities

The Administrator announced that NSFAS is following up on various alleged procurement irregularities, including the direct payment mechanism.

Nomvalo acknowledged the support provided by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) regarding this issue.

“To address capacity challenges in the Procurement Unit, I am currently engaged with the National Treasury with the intention of drawing in a secondment from Treasury for the period of six months to also help us with the review of SCM (Supply chain management) policies, as well as procurement processes at NSFAS,” Nomvalo said.

Fruitless and wasteful expenditure registers

The Administrator further announced that the scheme has put measures in place for the 2024/25 financial year, to implement the irregular expenditure and fruitless and wasteful expenditure registers.

“We will also implement the non-compliance register. These registers will not only ensure compliance with the PFMA (Public Finance Management Act) but will also enhance transparency on the use of public resources by NSFAS,” Nomvalo said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 08/07/2024 - 11:20

235 views

5 August 2024

Nzimande to address the world’s largest astronomy meeting

Location: News

Nzimande to address the world’s largest astronomy meeting

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, will give the opening address at the world’s largest astronomy meeting, the 32nd General Assembly of the International Astronomy Union (IAU).

The two week-long meeting will kick off on Tuesday, 6 August, in Cape Town, South Africa.

Hosted for the first time in Africa, the in-person and virtual global gathering of astronomers and other experts in the field will also provide open access for anyone to attend from anywhere in the world.

According to the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), world-renowned astronomers Dr Mae Jemison and Dr Sian Proctor will address the assembly.

Jemison became the first female African American commercial astronaut and mission pilot to travel into space when she went into orbit aboard the National Administration and Space Administration’s (NASA) Space Shuttle Endeavour on 12 September 1992.

Proctor is an astronaut and was the first female pilot of a commercial spaceship.

The department said the two renowned experts will speak to over 2 000 astronomers from around the world at this event, which takes place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

“The assembly is an opportunity for astronomers to address key topics in contemporary astronomy and assess the latest scientific progress in various specialised areas,” the statement read.

This year’s General Assembly represents a significant milestone, highlighting Africa’s growing role in the global astronomical community and its potential for major contributions to astronomical research and development.

Meanwhile, the Minister’s address will underscore the commitment to advance Africa’s astronomy and science on the global stage as well as highlight South Africa’s massive investments in skills and infrastructure development.

His speech will also touch on the geographical advantages of clear southern skies in the Karoo, its engineering and scientific base, and its growing international ranking and partnerships.

“One highlight will be the opportunity for attendees to speak to the astronauts on board the International Space Station live from the conference venue via ham radio, in partnership with Amateur Radio on the International Space Station.”

Other guests include the former director of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), Dr Bernie Fanaroff, who will deliver a talk on ‘Innovating at the periphery: the development of SKA and MeerKAT’.

The IAU General Assembly is held every three years and is led by the African Astronomical Society.

Each event advances the astronomical sciences through international collaboration and celebrates Africa's rich astronomical heritage and commitment to advancing the field.

The hybrid event is being hosted by the National Research Foundation, supported by the DSI.

The academic programme will include over 2 000 presentations scheduled across more than 300 sessions.

The General Assembly will include six symposia and 12 multi-session focus meetings. There will also be poster sessions and prize lectures given by recipients of prestigious awards in astronomy.

According to the department, this meeting will have a societal impact that goes beyond national barriers in a continent-wide celebration of astrology.

Exhibitors will include the South Africa Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), the South African Astronomical Observatory, NASA, the European Space Agency and the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, the US National Radio Astronomy Observatory, and several South African agencies. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:26

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2 August 2024

Appeal for more organ donors

Location: News

Appeal for more organ donors

The Department of Health has appealed to citizens to sign up to become organ and tissue donors in a bid to improve someone’s quality of life or even save someone’s life, especially those who are very sick or dying from a life-threatening disease or organ failure.

“Organ donation is when organs such as the heart, lungs, liver and kidneys are removed from one person and transplanted into another person,” the department explained, adding that one donor can save up to seven lives and transform over 50 lives.

Meanwhile, tissue donation is when tissues in the body such as skin, corneas and bone are removed from one person and transplanted into another person.

It is estimated that over 2 500 people are on the active waiting list for organ and tissue donation, while others lose their lives while waiting to receive a lifesaving gift.

“Currently, organ donors are in very short supply because of limited knowledge amongst citizens,” the department said.

The department, in collaboration with various non-governmental organisations, said they will use the month of August as part of Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Month.

According to the department, anyone aged 18 years or older can become an organ or tissue donor without expecting financial reward, and subject themselves to certain medical conditions that require one to wait or be physically well.

“One can donate organs such as the kidney and liver lobe and continue to live a normal and healthy life because organs like the liver regenerate over time.”

However, it is illegal in South Africa and other parts of the world for anyone to sell or trade human organs or tissues as that can perpetuate organ and human trafficking.

“An organ transplant takes place in both government and private hospitals after an individual has been declared circulatory (heart stopped beating) or brain dead, but is still being supported by artificial life support.

“The tissue donation and retrieval can still take place several hours and even days after death, but consent from the loved ones must be given.”

Potential donors can go to their nearest public or private hospital to ask for assistance on the steps to follow for one to donate, alternatively, call the Organ Donor Foundation on 0800 22 66 11 or visit www.odf.org.za.

Those interested can also contact the SA Bone Marrow Registry at 021 447 8630 or the Centre for Tissue Engineering at Tshwane University of Technology at 012 349 3500 or visit www.tissuedonation.org.za. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 08/02/2024 - 09:37

73 views

31 July 2024

DCS responds to Thabo Bester allegations

Location: News

DCS responds to Thabo Bester allegations

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has hit back at allegations by convict and alleged prison escape artist Thabo Bester regarding his incarceration at the Kgoši Mampuru II Correctional Facility in Pretoria.

In June this year, Bester told the pre-trial court in his escape case that, amongst other allegations, he was being kept in solitary confinement for 23 hours of the day and was not given adequate time to consult with his lawyers.

The department has dismissed those allegations – insisting that everything surrounding his incarceration has been done by the book.

“As DCS, it is clear that we are dealing with an inmate capable of engineering elaborate means to escape from lawful custody. Hence, we are duty-bound to employ strict security measures, within the confines of the law, in order to prevent any chance of him escaping once again.

“Apart from these security measures aimed at preventing an escape, the department has, since Thabo Bester’s admission at Kgoši Mampuru II Correctional Facility, treated him in the same manner that it treats other inmates at the said facility,” DCS said in a statement.

The department was at pains to explain that although imprisonment does not strip individuals of their rights, in the context of imprisonment, some rights “are given effect to differently where it is possible, practical and safe to do so, while others inconsistent with imprisonment do not enjoy recognition for instance the right to liberty”.

“Equally, the department recognises that the conditions of detention of inmates should be consistent with human dignity, including at least an opportunity to exercise and provision of adequate accommodation, nutrition, reading material and the opportunity to access legal advice.

“That said, inmates are not entitled to be imprisoned with all the comforts they have enjoyed before their incarceration. A Correctional Centre is not akin to one's own private residence. Therefore, those amenities that a person would ordinarily enjoy outside the Correctional Centre are not necessarily available in a correctional facility. That is an invariable consequence of being imprisoned,” the department added.

Solitary confinement and access to legal representation

The DCS pointed out that there is “no practice of solitary confinement in South Africa” and dismissed Bester’s allegations that he was kept in that state as “incorrect and fallacious”.

“C-Max, at Kgoši Mampuru, is a high security facility. It comprises only single cells. Hence, all inmates in the facility do not share a cell. Therefore, the impression created by Thabo Bester that he is in a single cell, as a form of solitary confinement, is, with respect, disingenuous.

“Thabo Bester gets an opportunity to exercise for an hour every day. That is the minimum time of exercise permitted by Section 11 of the Correctional Services Act. The exercise always takes place in open air, unless the weather does not permit. During the time allocated for exercising, an inmate has an option to participate in other recreational activities.

“Thabo Bester and other inmates in C-Max are also afforded a reasonable opportunity to have telephonic contact with and to be visited by their families when such visits are properly arranged with the centre. Equally, Thabo Bester’s assertion that he is segregated is not correct. The facility comprises only single cells,” the department said.

On the issue of whether Bester is allowed access to legal advice and representation, the DCS said Bester had made “hundreds of telephone calls to various lawyers” for the period 12 October 2023 until 16 July 2024.

“Thabo Bester is asking for ‘an in-person or physical legal consultations' of not less than seven hours on prior arrangements and to allow him to use a laptop/tablet or any suitable gadget. He complains about a consultation using [a] wall steel telephone, whilst separated by a glass with his legal representatives, is not meaningful.

“Thabo Bester suggests that he should be afforded an opportunity to consult with his legal representatives in a specific office at the centre. With respect, there is no merit in Thabo Bester’s request. To be succinct, the request is unreasonable. Thabo Bester’s legal representatives can communicate with him during the consultation and take down the necessary notes.

“A consultation with his legal representatives from 09:00 - 16:00 on a daily basis is neither reasonable nor practical. Kgoši Mampuru houses hundreds of inmates who also need to use the consultation rooms. The Regulations allow for consultations on a daily basis from 08:00 until 15:00 in the afternoon. Therefore, if Thabo Bester’s request is acceded to, it will mean that one of the consultation rooms will be occupied by him the whole day,” the department asserted.

Other allegations

In respect of Bester’s request to access electronic gadgets or equipment and the use of hand and leg cuffs the DCS said:

• Thabo Bester’s request for gadgets will pose a security risk to the centre and might enable him to orchestrate another escape.
• The use of hand and leg cuffs on Thabo Bester is justified under section 31 of the Correctional Services Act. Before his incarceration at Kgoši Mampuru, Thabo Bester had escaped from a maximum-security prison. Without a doubt, the department is justified in having an apprehension that Thabo Bester might attempt to escape again.

“The manner in which Thabo Bester has been treated is consistent with what is prescribed by the Correctional Services Act and the regulations promulgated under the Act. Basically, safe and humane custody of inmates is at the centre of the correctional system.

“The Act provides that the aim of a correctional system is to contribute to maintaining and protecting a just, peaceful and safe society by enforcing sentences of the courts in a manner prescribed by the Act and detaining all inmates in safe custody whilst ensuring their human dignity,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 07/31/2024 - 14:38

293 views

29 July 2024

How to be successful in the music industry

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

Nick Matzukis, co-founder and CEO at Academy of Sound Engineering There is no magic wand to make it in the music industry. A combination of talent, technical knowledge and business acumen is essential if aspiring young artists are to monetise their skills effectively. According to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) Global Music …

29 July 2024

Wind Energy in South Africa: A Balanced Perspective

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg, 29 July 2024: South Africa’s energy landscape is rapidly evolving, with renewable energy – specifically solar and wind – emerging as a significant player in the quest for a sustainable and reliable energy supply. Indications are that between a concerted effort by Eskom to recover underperforming coal fired power plants to higher levels of …

22 July 2024

Unlocking AI’s transformative potential in South Africa: Enhancing society & creating opportunities

Location: MyPR

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to supercharge every aspect of business and society, South Africa stands at a critical juncture. Rather than fearing job displacement, we can harness AI to drive widespread growth and prosperity. By fostering local innovation, investing in AI education, and creating a conducive regulatory environment, we can empower citizens and businesses …

19 July 2024

Guest Resources Services: Empowering Individuals Through Accredited Training and Development

Location: MyPR

Guest Resources Services, a leading provider of skills development and training solutions, is proud to announce its comprehensive range of accredited courses and services designed to empower individuals and enhance workforce capabilities across various sectors. With a commitment to fostering professional growth and development, the organization offers a diverse portfolio of National Certificates and accredited …

16 July 2024

Mineware Consulting: Enhancing South African Deep-Level Mine Safety through Digital Innovation

Location: MyPR

Mineware Consulting is committed to contributing to enhanced safety in the South African mining industry with innovative software solutions, built-in training initiatives, and data-driven strategies. The South African mining industry has historically been a major contributor to the country’s economy. However, it faces significant safety challenges due to its complex geological conditions and the prevalence …

14 July 2024

Government continues to assist those affected by Western Cape floods

Location: News

Government continues to assist those affected by Western Cape floods

Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, says government has been hard at work to relocate the families affected by the devastating floods in the Western Cape this week.

Thousands of people in the province have been rendered homeless after flooding destroyed their homes.

“We’ve been able to relocate families into a building that, as government, we have leased for 30 days while we are finding a solution in terms of the informal settlement because they have submerged, whether the rain will come down and we move them back or we have to find an alternative land where we relocate them,” she said.

The Minister added, however, that finding suitable land was proving elusive.

“The challenge in the City of Cape Town is land availability and the requirements we have to follow in terms of our processes of approvals for land use.

“So currently those that were affected in terms of their buildings, formal structures, the assessment has been done by the [National Home Builders Registration Council]. We have received the first report. We are hoping that by Monday, we would have that intervention as fixing those houses by our service providers that we have been able to appoint.

“The materials for the informal settlements are starting to be delivered,” Kubayi said.

Meanwhile, the Western Cape provincial government said it has given the green light for some households in Newton in the Drakenstein Municipality to return home.

This after 900 households in the area were evacuated when it was established that a dam wall in the area was at risk of failure due to the severe flooding.

“Working in consultation with the Department of Water and Sanitation and a dam engineering specialist, Drakenstein Municipality’s Engineering Services Department performed another onsite inspection this morning of the farm dam above Newton and confirmed that the risk of dam wall failure has been mitigated.

“This decision was taken in light of the fact that the water level of 150 000-cubic-meter dam in the Bo-Dal area dropped slightly since last night, as well as the lighter rainfall predicted for today.

“According to the authorities, the dam should be able to handle the flow of water that is expected to reach it today.

“The municipality will keep on monitoring the dam closely and notify residents immediately should the situation change,” the Western Cape government said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 07/14/2024 - 13:54

241 views

3 July 2024

Hacked Healthcare: New KnowBe4 Report Shines a Spotlight on Cybersecurity Crisis in Sector

Location: News

KnowBe4 (www.KnowBe4.com), the provider of the world's largest security awareness training and simulated phishing platform, released its International Healthcare Report. The report takes a closer look at the cybersecurity crisis currently experienced by the healthcare sector, in particular hospital groups, across the world.

Africa was the global region with the highest average number of weekly cyberattacks per organisation in 2023. One in every 19 organisations on the continent experienced an attempted attack every week. Although South Africa's healthcare sector has managed to avoid a major attack since 2020, the alarming escalation of attacks in other sectors within the country suggests that it's only a matter of time before the next attack strikes, making it a question of "when" rather than "if".

Hospitals have become increasingly attractive targets for ransomware attacks due to their comprehensive patient databases, sensitive information, and their interconnectedness between systems and equipment. Moreover, poor security measures have made hospitals vulnerable to cyber threats. When attacked, cybercriminals can potentially take control of entire hospital systems, and gain access not only to patients' health information but also their financial and insurance data.

Hospitals are severely impacted by cyberattacks (https://apo-opa.co/4csCXH4), which can lead to a reduction in patient care, loss of access to electronic systems, and a reliance on incomplete paper records. This can also result in the cancellation of surgeries, tests, appointments, and, in some cases, even loss of life.

Some shocking facts discussed in the report include:

In the first three quarters of 2023, the global healthcare sector experienced a staggering 1,613 cyberattacks per week, nearly four times the global average, and a significant increase from the same period the previous year.
The healthcare sector has seen a dramatic surge in cyberattack costs over the past three years, with the average cost of a breach reaching nearly $11 million, more than three times the global average. This makes healthcare the costliest sector for cyberattacks.
Ransomware attacks have been the most prevalent type of cyberattack on healthcare organisations, accounting for over 70% of successful attacks in the past two years.
The majority of cyberattacks (between 79% and 91%), across sectors, begin with phishing or social engineering tactics, which allow cybercriminals to gain access to accounts or servers.
According to KnowBe4's 2024 Phishing by Industry Benchmarking Report (https://apo-opa.co/4csuiEB), healthcare and pharmaceutical organisations are among the most vulnerable to phishing attacks, with employees in large organisations in the sector having a 51.4% likelihood of falling victim to a phishing email. This means that cybercriminals have a better than 50/50 chance of successfully phishing an employee in the sector.

“The healthcare sector remains a prime target for cybercriminals looking to capitalise on the life-or-death situations hospitals face,” says Stu Sjouwerman, CEO of KnowBe4. “With patient data and critical systems held hostage, many hospitals feel like they are left with no choice but to pay exorbitant ransoms. This vicious cycle can be broken by prioritising comprehensive security awareness training to empower employees and cultivate a positive security culture as a strong defence against phishing and social engineering attacks."

The report examines the state of cybersecurity in the healthcare sector in North America, Europe, the United Kingdom, Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Latin America. In addition it also highlights some of the most prolific global ransomware attacks that occurred between December 2023 and May 2024, the aftermath thereof and what healthcare organisations can do to protect themselves from cyberattacks.

To download a copy of KnowBe4's International Healthcare Report, click here (https://apo-opa.co/3xIjjaY).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KnowBe4.

About KnowBe4:
KnowBe4, the provider of the world's largest security awareness training and simulated phishing platform, is used by more than 65,000 organizations around the globe. Founded by IT and data security specialist Stu Sjouwerman, KnowBe4 helps organizations address the human element of security by raising awareness about ransomware, CEO fraud and other social engineering tactics through a new-school approach to awareness training on security. The late Kevin Mitnick, who was an internationally recognized cybersecurity specialist and KnowBe4's Chief Hacking Officer, helped design the KnowBe4 training based on his well-documented social engineering tactics. Organizations rely on KnowBe4 to mobilize their end users as their last line of defense and trust the KnowBe4 platform to strengthen their security culture and reduce human risk.

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28 June 2024

Implementing Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality in Classroom Learning

Location: MyPR

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) have rapidly evolved from their nascent stages into powerful educational tools over the past few decades. As an Academic and the Teaching, Learning & Manager at Regent Business School, Bryson Pather has observed how these immersive technologies revolutionise the way we teach and learn. Initially limited to experimental …

28 June 2024

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej focuses on Breaking Infertility Stigma in the Third Episode of “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” TV program

Location: News

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany has launched the Third Episode of their first-ever TV program – ‘Our Africa by Merck Foundation' on their social media handles.

‘Our Africa by Merck Foundation' is a pan African TV program that is conceptualized, produced, directed, and co-hosted by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation to feature African Fashion Designers, Singers, and prominent experts from various domains with the aim to raise awareness and create a culture shift across Africa.

The TV program is currently broadcasting on KTN Home in Kenya, every Saturday at 5 pm and repeated every Thursday at 6:30 am.

It has also been broadcasted on prime TV stations of many countries like BTV (Botswana) Mashariki TV (Burundi), GHOne & TV3 (Ghana), QTV (The Gambia), LNTV (Liberia), Mibawa Limited (Malawi), Defi Media (Mauritius), AYV TV (Sierra Leone), NTV (Uganda), ZNBC TV (Zambia), and ZBC (Zimbabwe) and it immediately captured the attention and hearts of millions of viewers across Africa. “Our Africa” TV Program will soon be broadcast on GTV in Ghana, NBC in Namibia, and ZTN in Zimbabwe. “Our Africa” TV Program is also currently on social media handles of Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/3RdVvT8, Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/3RcCFeZ, Twitter: http://apo-opa.co/3x5PUY2 and YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/4aJfWy0) and Merck Foundation (Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/3Xbc4D0, Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/3x7ius3, Twitter: http://apo-opa.co/4aTy5sW and YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/4ejGIjF).

Watch the Promo of ‘Our Africa by Merck Foundation' here:

https://apo-opa.co/3L8inj6

The theme for the Third Episode is Breaking the Infertility Stigma, particularly around women, in Africa.

Watch the Third Episode promo here: https://apo-opa.co/4clWEAl

Watch the Third Episode here: https://apo-opa.co/3xCfMuK

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation expressed, “Firstly, I would like to thank all the viewers and followers for the amazing response we have received for our TV Program ‘Our Africa'. Our social media is flooded with lovely and inspiring messages from the viewers! This episode is indeed close to my heart as an African woman, as it is part of our signature campaign “More than a Mother”, the work we have created by our fashion designers and artists all over Africa was very encouraging and kept pushing us to work harder to address this sensitive issue and empower infertile women through information, health and change of mindset. And of course, we will keep addressing more sensitive social and health issues to be the voice of the voiceless in our beloved Africa”.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation further emphasized, “The messages of the designs are also focusing on the issue of male infertility and how fertility is a shared responsibility as it takes a man and woman to have a child. We have addressed this issue through our Fashion and Art with Purpose community. Together we can create a culture shift that will help our communities better understand and act on different issues. Through this episode, I also got a chance to thank my dear sisters, the African First Ladies who I have worked very closely with Merck Foundation for this Movement, as Ambassadors of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother.

I would also like to thank our viewers for the amazing response we have been receiving, this is indeed very inspiring and encouraging. Moreover, I would especially like to acknowledge the love we have been receiving from our social media followers, it is phenomenal.”

Merck Foundation's iconic “More Than a Mother” campaign started and led by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej is a rallying movement to Break Infertility Stigma faced by women across the African continent.

“More Than a Mother' Movement is very close to my heart. Along with all the initiatives under this Movement, Merck Foundation also supports building healthcare capacity in Africa, therefore, I am happy to share that Merck Foundation has provided more than 574 scholarships to doctors from 39 countries, with the aim to advance women's health by building Reproductive & Sexual care and Fertility Care Capacity in Africa and beyond. Moreover, we have trained more than 3200 media representatives from more than 35 countries to raise community awareness, creating a culture shift and breaking the stigma around infertility and infertile and childless women” explained Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.

This third episode featured prominent personalities like Nontando Mposo, Editor-in-Chief, Glamour Magazine, South Africa and popular Singer Blaze from Mozambique. Fashion designers Anuja Bharti from Ghana and Alberto from Mozambique showcased their designs that displayed strong messages on #NoToInfertilityStigma and #MenToo can be the cause of infertility.

Merck Foundation has also been empowering childless and infertile women through their “Empowering Berna” initiative under Merck Foundation's “More Than a Mother” movement. This initiative helps women who cannot be treated for infertility anymore by helping them to get trained to establish small businesses so that they can be independent and re-build their lives. Through ‘Empowering Berna', the lives of many infertile women have been transformed in many African countries like Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Central African Republic, Niger, Malawi and many more.

Merck Foundation in partnership with African First Ladies have also launched children's storybook “More Than a Mother”, to emphasize strong family values of love and respect from a young age which will reflect on eliminating the stigma of infertility and resulted domestic violence in the future. The book has been also adapted to an animation film. Watch More than a Mother Animation Film here:

https://apo-opa.co/4cbefLj

Merck Foundation has also released many songs to raise awareness about infertility stigma under their “More Than a Mother” campaign. Listen to some of the songs here:

Watch, share & subscribe to the 'Plus qu'une MERE' composed and sung by Ms. Lucky-Lou, the daughter of The President and The First Lady of Burundi: https://apo-opa.co/3L5eQT0
Watch, share & subscribe to the “More Than a Mother” song by Cwesi Oteng and Adina from Ghana: https://apo-opa.co/3ziuKH0

Listen to all “More than a Mother” songs here:

https://apo-opa.co/3RwVPMR

“To address this important issue of breaking infertility stigma and also a wide range of other social issues, we annually launch Merck Foundation ‘More Than a Mother' Awards in partnership with African First Ladies. I would also like to invite the African Community of Media, Fashion, Film making, and Musicians, students and potential talents in these fields to apply for the awards this year, in order to create a culture shift and break the silence about one or more of the following topics: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels. I am looking forward to receiving their creative work on submit@merck-foundation.com”, added Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact details:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
+91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3Xbc4D0
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/4aTy5sW
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4ejGIjF
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3x7ius3
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4ejGKbh
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/45ourGB

About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare and scientific research capacity and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3Xbc4D0, Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/4aTy5sW, Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3x7ius3, YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4ejGIjF and Flicker https://apo-opa.co/4ejGKbh.

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27 June 2024

Famous Electricians of Colour

Location: MyPR

At the risk of using a ‘groan-able’ pun Straton Electrical says that this list of famous North American Electricians of colour may shock you into reality: There are several notable African American electricians and inventors who made significant contributions to the field: Granville T. Woods (1856 – 1910) was a prolific African American inventor known …

26 June 2024

Celebrating Significant South African Electrical Engineers

Location: MyPR

It is said that if you don’t know where you come from you will struggle to find out where you are going. Today the Electrical Contracting/Engineering industry stands on the shoulders of giants in the industry. Straton Electrical acknowledges these famous men and women that contributed to our industry to make it what it is …

24 June 2024

Starbucks Champions Young Innovators: Empowering Change Makers to Compete Globally. Be part of this journey

Location: MyPR

Starbucks Champions Young Innovators: Empowering Change Makers to Compete Globally. Be part of this journey. Cape Town, South Africa – On Saturday, June 1st the V&A Waterfront was buzzing with excitement as Starbucks South Africa hosted Booster Kids, a local robotics club, for a day filled with innovation, creativity, and delicious Frappuccino’s! Our store was …

21 June 2024

Talented young SA scientists to attend prestigious scientific conference in Germany

Location: News

Talented young SA scientists to attend prestigious scientific conference in Germany

As the country celebrates Youth Month, the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) has announced that eight young South African postgraduates will be attending the 73rd Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting dedicated to physics.

Hosted in Lindau, Germany, from 30 June to 5 July 2024, the conference will gather approximately 600 young scientists from across the globe alongside 30 Nobel Laureates.

This year’s scientific programme will focus on three key themes, quantum physics and quantum technologies, physics-based solutions to the energy challenge, and artificial intelligence in physics.

The young students come from higher education institutions including the University of Venda, University of Cape Town (UCT), North West University (NWU) and the University of South Africa (Unisa).

Funded by the DSI and implemented by the DSI’s entity the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) is the official partner of the Lindau Foundation nominating young scientists to attend the annual Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings.

“The meetings are a forum for young scientists to engage substantively with Nobel Laureates on research and overall career management aspects,” the department explained.

ASSAf is hosting a pre-travel event this week where the eight young scientists will engage with alumni from previous meetings to learn from their experiences and the opportunities that arise through participating in these esteemed, life-changing meetings.

“They will also receive training in science communication for effective communication of scientific information to non-specialist audiences.”

DSI Acting Director-General, Daan du Toit, has expressed the department’s immense pride in these eight exceptional young locals, saying this was a remarkable achievement and a testament to the calibre of the country’s emerging scientific talent.

“The Lindau Meetings provide a unique opportunity for these young researchers to engage with Nobel Laureates and fellow participants from around the world, fostering invaluable connections, exchanging ideas, and gaining insights from some of the brightest scientific minds,” Du Toit said.

He believes that participation in such a globally renowned event highlights South Africa’s commitment to nurturing excellence in science and innovation, reinforcing the importance of investing in the next generation of scientists and supporting their endeavours to contribute to society meaningfully.

“Support for young South African scientists to participate in the Lindau Meetings and other international young scientists’ fora forms part of the department’s strategic investment in science diplomacy capacities.

“The connections that young South African scientists foster during these meetings will equip them well for future international collaborations and global knowledge networks, reinforcing global solidarity through science,” he added.

Youngsters that will attend the annual conference:

Dr Bambesiwe Mbesi May, PhD graduate in Chemistry at Unisa.

Mr Tsebesebe Nkgaphe Tebatjo, PhD candidate in biomedical engineering at UCT.

Ms Sarah McKee, PhD candidate at NWU based at the South African National Space Agency.

Dr Bertus Van Heerden, post-doctoral researcher in biophysics at the University of Pretoria.

Ms Modjadji Rebecca Letsoalo, Master’s student in physics, focusing on material sciences, at the University of Venda.

Ms Anna Chrysostomou, PhD candidate in high-energy physics theory at the University of Johannesburg and the Claude Bernard University Lyon 1.

Dr Mosima Bernice Kgomo, post-doctoral research fellow at Unisa.

Ms Mosidi Mokoena, Master’s candidate at UCT and hosted by the biophotonics research group at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 06/21/2024 - 11:10

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18 June 2024

From Pitch to Profit

Location: MyPR

Three KZN SMEs triumph at the Durban Automotive Cluster Dragons’ Den Event Durban, KwaZulu-Natal – The (DAC) Business Accelerator held its “Dragons’ Den” event at The Pearls in Umhlanga Rocks on Tuesday, 4th June 2024. Although this step of the Accelerator is based on the popular Dragons’ Den television show, its intentions and outcomes are …

11 June 2024

Psychology in construction: A psychologist shares her insights

Location: MyPR

Celebrity psychologist and international speaker Charissa Bloomberg has a history of applying her skills in the engineering, mining, and construction industries. Here, she shares her approach, from initial needs analysis to the human element that should never be underestimated. Bloomberg, known for her guest appearances across radio and TV stations, has a passion for integrity …

10 June 2024

City of Tshwane, Water and Sanitation sign agreement to address water issues

Location: News

City of Tshwane, Water and Sanitation sign agreement to address water issues

The City of Tshwane has set the wheels in motion towards formalising partnerships that will contribute towards addressing the city’s water and sanitation related challenges.

The National Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is among the strategic partners which the city has approached not only to be involved as a regulator, but to also collaborate on various issues and leveraging the department’s technical and financial resources to jointly address the metropolitan municipality’s other challenges, including the Hennops River pollution, Rooiwal Wastewater Treatment Works and inadequate human resources.

The City of Tshwane and the department have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on various strategic areas including infrastructure planning and development, water resource planning and infrastructure solutions, and capacity building for the municipal officials.

The agreement was signed on Monday by Tshwane City Manager, Johann Mettler and Deputy Director-General for Water and Sanitation Services, Dr Risimati Mathye, at the city’s headquarters in Tshwane House.

The parties said discussions are at an advanced stage to finalise a flagship engineering candidacy development programme, which will see the secondment of candidate engineers to the City of Tshwane, as well as professional engineers who will be contracted to the city for a three-year period.

A team of engineers has undergone training under the department.

In addition, the Department of Water and Sanitation will offer free mentorship through its database of mentors to the candidate engineers to assist them to obtain their professional registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).

Once implemented successfully, the programme will assist the city in complying with the new ECSA Identification of Engineering Work Regulations.

Mathye said collaboration between the two entities is significant, particularly on the Water and Sanitation side, to fulfil its role as a regulator of the water and sanitation sector.

“Addressing our major water challenges requires a collaborative effort between the city and key water stakeholders and the DWS is one of those key players.

“We have been facing significant water challenges which have been affecting some of our residents for a longer period [and] some of these challenges can be linked to ageing infrastructure and maintenance challenges at some of our Water Treatment Plants.

“We are pleased by the will and zeal that has been shown by the city in ensuring collaborative efforts and allow us to work together in different spheres of government to ensure efficient services to the residents of Tshwane. It has always been our intention to work with local government across to capacitate them where we can, to achieve Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 6, to realise clean water and decent sanitation provision to communities,” Mathye said.

Other key areas of collaboration that the MoU will focus on include:

• Water resource planning and infrastructure solutions in line with the city’s Climate Action Plan.
• Infrastructure planning and development.
• Collaboration on water and sanitation-related programmes.
• Sustainable Development Goal 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation.
• Training and capacity building including secondment of staff between the parties.
• Education and awareness campaigns.
• Knowledge-sharing.
• Benchmarking of programmes like Green Drop, Blue Drop, No Drop.
• Joint enforcement programmes for water pollution prevention.
• Exploration of alternative water and sanitation technologies with DWS and its entities.
• Key bulk infrastructure in line with the Metropolitan Spatial Development Framework and Regionalised Spatial Development Framework.
• Any other additional area that the parties may agree to collaborate on in future.

The signed MoU reinforces the ideal of the Intergovernmental Relations Act, Act No. 13 of 2005 which implores a concerted effort by government in all spheres to work together and to integrate as far as possible their actions in the provision of services, the alleviation of poverty and the development of society. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 06/10/2024 - 12:41

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7 June 2024

After five years only 26 state houses built in Inanda

Location: News

Families relocated to make way for housing project have been living in a poorly serviced transit camp

6 June 2024

SIU welcomes dismissal of application related to Operation Mabone

Location: News

SIU welcomes dismissal of application related to Operation Mabone

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has welcomed a Constitutional Court judgment dismissing an application to appeal a High Court order bid by engineering company Mphaphuli Consulting to have the unit’s report on Operation Mabone reviewed and set aside.

In 2013, the Greater Tubatse Local Municipality (now known as Fetakgomo Tubatse Municipality) entered into a contract with the company to connect at least 13 000 houses to the grid worth some R168.8 million.

An investigation by the SIU found that the company – owned by Lufuno Mphaphuli – allegedly overcharged the municipality by at least R73 million after costs skyrocketed as the municipality twice amended the contract - bringing the total number of houses to be electrified to 19 000, at a cost of at least R326 million.

“In the judgment dated 3 June 2024, the Constitutional Court states that it ‘considered the application for condonation and application for leave to appeal and has concluded that the application for leave does not engage its jurisdiction. Consequently, leave to appeal must be refused with costs and the Court need not decide the application for condonation’.

“The SIU welcomes the decision of the Constitutional Court, as it now settles the question of whether the SIU was empowered to investigate the electrification of villages under Greater Tubatse Municipality and paves the way for the civil claim against the engineering company to recover approximately R76 million to commence in the Limpopo High Court,” the SIU said.

The corruption busting unit explained that in its investigation, it was found that the municipality had “piggybacked on an existing contract between Mphaphuli Consulting and Vhembe District Municipality to electrify villages”.

“However, the terms of the contract were changed to increase the pricing of the services by more than R5 000 than what was charged in Vhembe resulting in an overpayment of approximately R76 million. The SIU instituted a civil claim in 2017 in the Limpopo High Court to recover financial losses suffered by the Municipality following the conclusion of its investigation.

“In response, Mphaphuli Consulting brought an application to review and set aside the SIU report and to seek an order compelling the SIU to stop all steps taken against the engineering company, which emanated from the SIU’s investigation.

“In March 2022, the Limpopo High Court dismissed the application with costs. In August 2023, the Supreme Court of Appeal dismissed the application with costs and now the apex court has also dismissed it with costs. The SIU will start the process of pursuing the legal fees it is owed by Mphaphuli Consulting for these court proceedings and other related legal processes,” the unit said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 12:24

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5 June 2024

RS partners with Sharps Electrical to drive innovation and sustainable growth in Botswana

Location: Business

RS South Africa (www.Africa.RSdelivers.com), a trading brand of RS Group plc (LSE: RS1), a global provider of product and service solutions, has formed a strategic partnership with Sharps Electrical (http://apo-opa.co/3VtNc8b), a leading electrical wholesaler and contractor in Botswana. This collaboration marks a significant stride towards fostering innovation and sustainable growth in the Sub-Saharan African region.

Signed on 1 April, the partnership aims to leverage the strengths of both companies to deliver superior products and services to customers in the region. Prosper Shoniwa, Exports Business Development & Operational Manager at RS, highlights the importance of this collaboration: “This partnership is crucial for RS as it strengthens our presence in the Botswana market.”

He adds: “It aligns with our strategic goal of expanding in key regions to drive growth across Sub-Saharan Africa. By collaborating with Sharps Electrical, known for its reliability and consistency, we can ensure our products are more accessible to the market and offer robust aftersales support. We believe Sharps Electrical is the ideal partner to help us achieve our growth objectives.”

With over fifty years of operational excellence in Botswana, Sharps Electrical provides invaluable local market insights and proficiency. Jose Xavier, Operations Director at Sharps Electrical, expresses his excitement about the partnership: "Our aim is to diversify our product portfolio in conjunction with RS to advance our shared objective of expanding our market presence in Botswana. Together, we can introduce innovative products and foster collaborative efforts to deliver impactful supply and service solutions to our customers.”

The partnership will focus on selling and supporting the comprehensive product range that RS currently offers. This includes electrical components, tools, and advanced engineering solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of the Botswana market. Sharps Electrical will serve as the in-country point of contact for RS, ensuring customers have direct access to technical support and customer care.

By combining the strengths and expertise of both companies, the partnership aims to enhance the customer experience in Botswana. The collaboration will enable the provision of a wider range of high-quality products tailored to meet customer needs. Furthermore, investments in training and development initiatives will empower staff to deliver exceptional customer service, thereby nurturing local partnerships and enhancing logistical efficiency.

Shoniwa adds that the partnership is a significant step in RS' overall growth and expansion strategy. “It not only enhances our presence and operational capabilities in Africa but also presents significant advantages for Sharps Electrical.

“By establishing a local partnership in Botswana, RS aims to engage with customers more intimately, offering tailored support and fostering enduring relationships. This strategic move not only expands our geographical footprint but also ensures enhanced service delivery, crucial components of RS' strategy for sustainable growth and market penetration in new regions," concludes Shoniwa.

To learn more, visit the RS South Africa website.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of RS South Africa.

PR Contact Person - RS South Africa:
Princess Tlou
Communications & Content Specialist
RS South Africa
Princess.Tlou@rsgroup.com
+27 11 691 9366

Media Contact Person – NGAGE:
Thobile Ndlovu
PR Account Executive
thobile@ngage.co.za
+27 11 867 7763

Further information is available via these links:
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3KtqlD9
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3Reyj6S
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/3yJPAP7

RS
RS is a trading brand of RS Group plc, providing product and service solutions that help our customers design, build, maintain, repair, and operate industrial equipment and operations, safely and sustainably. We stock more than 750,000 industrial and electronic products, sourced from over 2,500 leading suppliers, and provide a wide range of product and service solutions to 1.1 million customers.
We support customers across the product lifecycle, whether via innovation and technical support at the design phase, improving time to market and productivity at the build phase, or reducing purchasing costs and optimising inventory in the maintenance, repair, and operation phase. We offer our customers tailored product and service propositions that are essential for the successful operation of their businesses and help them save time and money.
RS Group plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange with stock ticker RS1 and in the year ended 31 March 2023 reported revenue of £2,982 million.

RS South Africa: http://apo-opa.co/3VthqIs
RS Africa Exports: http://apo-opa.co/3VtNbkD
DesignSpark: http://apo-opa.co/4bLhPeW
RS Group plc: http://apo-opa.co/4bIfGkj

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28 May 2024

Unmatched Quality and Variety: Lou Appel’s Auto Spares and Their Comprehensive Engine Collection

Location: MyPR

Lou Appel’s Auto Spares is not just a name; it’s a promise of quality, reliability, and exceptional service in the automotive industry. Known for their vast inventory of high-quality engines, they cater to various car brands, ensuring that every customer finds the perfect match for their vehicle. Let’s dive deeper into some of the popular …