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In the past few years, Ugu District has attracted a significant number of tourists during the festive season – and according to local establishments, the 2023 figures indicate a similar pattern. This bodes well for the KZN South Coast with the Easter holidays around the corner! “The occupancy rates are a very positive indicator of …
Workshop aims to provide an overview of the AfCFTA
South Africa’s Special Economic Zones operators and businesses are to be exposed to the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) during a workshop by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic).
The department will host the workshop in collaboration with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) at the IDC Auditorium in Sandton on Wednesday from 09:00 in the morning.
The workshop aims to provide an overview of the AfCFTA and the status of negotiations and implementation, communicate the benefits and export opportunities offered under the AfCFTA to the SEZ managers, investors and tenants and share information on incentives, customs requirements, quality standards and export finance insurance solutions.
The Special Economic Zones Programme has over the 10 years since its inception offered a conducive environment for businesses to enhance their operations. The South African government uses the SEZs as a way to attract investments in sectors with no obvious comparative advantage, or as a way of increasing value added in export activities.
According to the Deputy Director-General of Trade at the dtic, Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi-Peter, the AfCFTA workshop will offer an opportunity to collaborate with the SEZs and present the master plan and AfCFTA SEZ Ministerial Regulations.
The six sector master plans targeted are steel and fabrication, agriculture and agro-processing, retail-clothing textile leather and footwear, automotive industry, sugar value chain and forestry.
“The aim is to share export opportunities for the SEZs arising from the AfCFTA and to sensitise them on the benefits of exporting under the AfCFTA,” Mlumbi-Peter said.
For South Africa, the AfCFTA provides an opportunity for the private sector, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs), including youth and women owned companies to expand to new markets in East, Central, West and North Africa.
“We wish to encourage companies to produce and export value added manufactured products to support sustainable jobs to new preferential markets in the African continent,” she said.
Participants will also receive presentations from the dtic’s Export Desk, Proudly South African, Brand SA and the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS). – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 15:12
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Task team established to clear alien invasive plants in Vaal River
The Ministers of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, and Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, have established a Technical Task Team to identify interventions with clear outcomes to manage the clearing of alien invasive plants at the Vaal River.
This follows public concerns relating to the use of the chemical, glyphosate, to clear alien invasive plants from the Vaal River by Rand Water.
In a joint statement, the departments said the task team, led by the Directors-General of the two departments and Chief Executive Officer of Rand Water, have identified immediate short- and long-term interventions with clear outcomes to manage the situation.
The immediate short-term interventions identified by the task team include the revision of the integrated control approach, which will assess the use of an herbicide that is registered with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development.
In the medium-term, compliance and enforcement interventions will be intensified against the sources of pollution that are driving this situation, while the long-term interventions include the review of the Vaal River Catchment Strategy relating to invasive alien aquatic species, in order to implement a strategy that will holistically address the situation.
“Lastly, the refurbishment of the Rietspruit, Sebokeng and Leeukuil Wastewater Treatment Works will be fast-tracked to reduce pollution that is also contributing to the high eutrophication of the Vaal River System.
“Multiple control strategies deployed simultaneously (biological, chemical and manual removal of alien invasives) are currently under investigation by the task team since a sustainable solution is required to manage the situation,” the departments said.
The spraying of glyphosate over water hyacinth choking up the Vaal River has been stopped due to safety concerns. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 10:18
Free State focuses on job creation
Free State Premier Mxolisi Dukwana says the province is hard at work to lessen the burden of unemployment.
In his State of the Province Address on Friday, Dukwana said unemployment fell from 38.5% in the third quarter of 2023 to 37% in the fourth quarter.
“Our Expanded Public Works Programme and the Presidential Employment Stimulus is a demonstration of our efforts to ignite economic growth,” he said.
Dukwana said since 2019, the province has created 282 907 work opportunities against a five-year target of 260 000 work opportunities through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).
“The Presidential Employment Stimulus enabled us to benefit from the creation of 87 357 job opportunities, supporting 24 733 livelihoods and retaining 1 680 jobs in the period between April to December 2023.
“These statistics include the 6 964 Education Assistants and 8 285 General School Assistants in the Department of Education. At the core of this education programme is the placement of unemployed youth in schools.
“This further illustrates how we give practical effect to our commitment to address youth unemployment. We must strengthen the coordination and maximise our participation in this programme,” Dukwana said.
He said a strong agricultural sector is key for food security, job creation, poverty alleviation and rural development.
“Work is underway to position the Free State as the champion of the agricultural green revolution in the country. A total of 4 543 producers were trained, and 249 students graduated from the Glen Agricultural College.
“We facilitated 19 023 export certificates, 29 419 hectares of land was rehabilitated and 987 hectares was cultivated using conservation practices. This will preserve the environment and increase production of organic products.
“Work is underway to avail provincial and municipal land for youth, women, people with disabilities and military veterans for farming purposes. We will increase investment to support the commercialisation of black farmers, investment in agro-logistics infrastructure and open new markets,” he said.
Dukwana said the province is hard at work to position the Free State as the country’s central energy logistics, distribution and beneficiation hub.
“The province has immense opportunities in natural gas, solar, coal, ethanol, wind, uranium, hydropower and hydrogen to power the future of our country,” he said.
30 Years of democracy
Dukwana said with 2024 marking 30 years of freedom and democracy, there is much to take note of.
“It is a year that builds a bridge between our tragic past, encouraging present and a brighter future... With the birth of democracy, the stage was set to carve a path anchored firmly on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights,” Dukwana said.
The Premier said central to the democratic transformation process is improving the living conditions of South Africans and fostering shared economic growth.
“Driven by the relentless desire for a better life for all, we have over the past 30 years, invested time, resources and commitment in fighting the triple challenge of unemployment, poverty and inequality.
“The courage of our people continues to be rewarded. Their hopes and dreams continue to be the spark that impels us to even greater heights. Signs are everywhere that the Free State is a province on the move, confident in our actions and optimistic in our future trajectory.
“We are making the most of our potential, harnessing our development efforts and leaving no one behind in a Social Compact with our people,” Dukwana said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 13:28
Trade union Solidarity says it’s been complaining about the deplorable state of the police building for years, but to no avail
Gauteng emerging farmers urged to apply for funding
Emerging farmers in the priority areas of poultry, piggery, grains, vegetables, red meat, cannabis, aquaculture, rabbit, bee farming and agri-processing have been invited to apply for funding.
This is part of the Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment’s efforts to grow the agricultural sector, create jobs and alleviate poverty in the province.
The CASP which closes on Friday, is informed by the department’s elevated priority focus to maintain sustainable food security in the province.
“We are making a call to the historically disadvantaged and the vulnerable groups, our women, youth and people living with disabilities to apply for the farmer support grant and become part of our relentless fight against food insecurity,” said Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Mbali Hlophe, on Sunday.
Hlophe said the farmer support programme is aimed at providing Small Medium and Micro Enterprise farmers with a much needed boost towards their farming establishments.
The relief programme is building on its previous successes which has seen an average of 250 beneficiaries per annum empowered into the mainstream economy since its establishment in 2004.
The annual subsidy is available to groups and individuals as a once-off intervention so that the department can cover a wider spectrum of beneficiaries for reasonable impact.
To remain transparent, the process takes place under the microscope of an independent evaluation and adjudication panel.
The panel consists of professionals from various fields including economists, animal scientists, crop scientists, engineers, and food scientists.
Potential beneficiaries need to meet the following conditional requirements to apply:
• Application form must be signed and dated
• Registered business on the farmers registers
• South African Certified ID (not more than three months)
• Valid confirmation of land tenure/ownership such as tittle deeds, permission to occupy land and/or minimum five years lease agreement.
• Already farming
• Farming operation’s ability to create permanent or seasonal jobs
• In cases where the Environment Impact Assessment certificate is required, such evidence must be provided.
Once all these have been met, applications may be emailed to: GDARDFARMERSUPPORT@gauteng.gov.za.
Prospective applicants can obtain forms from the following satellite offices:
SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 15:00
Small Business Development to host Global Entrepreneurship Congress
Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams will host the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC+Africa) in Cape Town from 13 - 14 March.
The Department of Small Business Development has partnered with 22 on Sloane and other public and private sector players, who are committed to advancing entrepreneurial activity on the continent, to stage GEC+Africa 2024.
GEC+Africa is a gathering of entrepreneurs, thought leaders and practitioners, who have become part of the global movement that advances entrepreneurship as a vehicle for building economies and expanding access to a better life for all.
Over 1 500 delegates from more than 50 African nations are expected to participate during the congress. This will include start-ups; small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs); investors; policymakers and organisations that support entrepreneurship development.
GEC+Africa will seek to achieve some of the following objectives:
- Support the development of innovative start-ups and SMMEs in Africa.
- Create an enabling environment for African entrepreneurs to create jobs.
- Create market linkages for African start-ups and SMMEs.
- Support the development of a credible global investor pipeline that will invest in African start-ups and SMMEs.
- Establish a strong GEC-affiliated organisation in each African country to build and strengthen its entrepreneurship ecosystem.
According to the Department of Small Business Development, GEC+Africa will be a platform to showcase the significant progress the country has made in producing some of the most innovative and successful entrepreneurs on the continent.
“South Africa has one of the most mature start-up ecosystems in Africa, with stronger supporting institutions,” the department said in a statement.
“The Department of Small Business Development will continue to work with its partners to create an enabling environment for the growth and sustainability of small enterprises, and to strengthen the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 03/03/2024 - 10:31
Policy to improve water, sanitation services on privately-owned land
Minister of Water and Sanitation Senzo Mchunu has launched a landmark policy aimed at improving the delivery of water and sanitation services on privately-owned land.
The launch took place on Friday at Cool Air Sport Grounds in Dalton under the uMshwathi Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal. The launch was part of activities planned for National Water Month, which is observed annually in March.
READ | DWS kick-starts National Water Month
The Water and Sanitation Services on Privately Owned Land Policy was propelled by a court case in 2019, which sought to enforce the provision of basic services to farm dwellers and others who reside on privately-owned land in different parts of the country.
Following this, the department developed a policy, which underwent extensive nationwide consultative processes for 90 days from December 2022 to March 2023. It was subsequently approved by Cabinet on 29 November 2023 for implementation.
Addressing hundreds of farm dwellers attending the policy launch held collaboratively with uMngeni-uThukela Water, the Association for Rural Advancement (AFRA), uMgungundlovu District and uMshwati Municipality, Mchunu reiterated the department’s commitment to ensure equitable provision of water and sanitation services.
“The purpose of the policy is to outline government’s intentions regarding water and sanitation services provision to residents living on privately-owned land.
“It establishes a framework for enhancing water and sanitation services provision in such areas, with specific strategies to be developed at provincial, district and local municipal levels. We are not here to just say we are launching the policy and then leave it there.
“We have measures put in place to ensure the effective and successful implementation of this policy, working collaboratively with other sister departments, civil society organisations and all spheres of government,” he said.
A comprehensive status quo analysis has been done by uMgungundlovu District Municipality in response to the 2019 court judgment.
Thus far, four boreholes in uMngeni, two in iMpendle, one in uMshwathi, nine in Mkhambathini and two in Richmond have been developed to ensure access to clean water.
A total of 231 basic sanitation facilities have been provided within the uMngungundlovu District Municipality.
Added to this, uMsunduzi Local Municipality has started with the planning process and has conducted a census of all farms under their jurisdiction needing clean water and safe sanitation services. This will enable them to allocate resources and start with the implementation of the policy.
Mchunu emphasised the commitment to implement the policy nationwide, not only in KwaZulu-Natal.
“As much as the policy is being launched under the uMgungundlovu District, its implementation will cover all corners of South Africa. We are calling upon all stakeholders to avail their resources and work alongside the department to ensure the full implementation of the policy.
“This policy is not just a document, but a programme of action to provide basic services to people living on privately-owned land,” Mchunu said.
The launch of the policy marked the beginning of a transformative journey for the Department of Water and Sanitation and the sector as a whole.
It is a commitment to a shared future where communities thrive, the environment flourishes, and every individual experiences the dignity that comes with access to basic water supply and sanitation services.
The launch provided residents, stakeholders and duty-bearers with a comprehensive understanding of the policy's key features and benefits, which includes improved access to reliable and safe water sources, enhanced service delivery and increased transparency and accountability. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 03/03/2024 - 11:45
2024 a critical milestone in South Africa's history
Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa, says the year 2024 represents a critical milestone in the country’s history, as it reflects and celebrates 30 years of the democratic dispensation.
“Part of this journey of reflection requires that we critically engage in the performance of the State and society more broadly in responding to the pressing developmental needs of our people,” said the Minister on Friday.
Ramokgopa was addressing the National Planning Commission’s Strategic Lekgotla, which was convened under the theme, 'National Planning Commission (NPC): Taking the NDP Forward'.
Ramokgopa said along the journey of building a democratic society, South Africans have been empowered with key development plans and programmes, including the Freedom Charter of 1955; the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) of 1994; the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996; the Growth, Employment and Redistribution (GEAR) of 1996; the National Development Plan (NDP) of 2012, and the Medium Term Strategic Frameworks under each administration, amongst others.
“Therefore, we are convinced and have evidence to prove that South Africa today is completely different from the South Africa we inherited in 1994,” Ramokgopa said.
She said the road to democracy is one characterised by years of struggle, resistance, resilience and unity under a common agenda for the liberation of South Africans.
“We must never find ourselves trivialising the hard-earned gains of our young democracy. Instead, we must find ways collectively to defend and advance these gains for the Tintswalos and many before and after her.
“We must also look at the state of the 35 - 45 years population cohort, who are the cohort immediately before Tintswalos.
“This cohort would have benefitted from the youth focused development programmes rolled out by government in the last 30 years, and it would be valuable to assess their state of socio-economic wellbeing to assess the impact of these programmes,” Ramokgopa said.
As the country approaches the end of the 6th administration, the Minister said it must be able to interrogate, plan and develop mitigation strategies that are associated with a transition of this nature.
“South Africa today is faced with a political environment that is charged, and if not managed properly, it has the potential to diminish democratic gains.
“We also need to robustly engage in the disjuncture between local and national government, and its impact on the populace, particularly the poor and working class, in terms of the provision of basic services, including access to clean water,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 03/03/2024 - 10:01
Gauteng officially launches school of arts
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has officially launched Khutlo-Tharo Performing and Creative Arts School of Specialisation in Sebokeng on Thursday, with a focus on Research and Innovation.
The Schools of Specialisation Programme continues to be a pioneering initiative by the Gauteng Department of Education, with Khutlo-Thato marking the 35th School of Specialisation to be launched in Gauteng.
“As we reflect on the journey thus far, it is clear that the Schools of Specialisation Programme has become an integral part of Gauteng's educational legacy. Through collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Gauteng continues to strive for greatness.
“We take pride in Khutlo-Tharo continuing to be a beacon of hope in this community and beyond, providing underprivileged learners with opportunities to explore and develop their creative talents that might otherwise have remained dormant within the confines of traditional education,” the Gauteng Education Department said.
In recognising the integral role of the arts in 21st-century education, the department said that the widely acknowledged STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education yields numerous benefits, including enhanced creativity, academic performance, motor skills, decision-making abilities, visual learning, and overall learning experiences.
By infusing arts into STEAM framework, learners are offered a fresh perspective on traditional subjects, fostering engagement and allowing them to explore diverse fields in a conducive and nurturing environment.
According to the department, this approach not only opens pathways to artistic careers but also prepares learners for success in more conventional professions, including those in Maths, Science and Engineering, further expanding learners' options and opportunities for their future and emphasising the Schools of Specialisation Programme aim of addressing unemployment.
The school has excelled in the arts, earning multiple accolades in music over the years, while also demonstrating resilience in achieving excellence in matric results. Since 2018, a steady increased has been witnessed, culminating in a commendable 90.8% pass rate in 2023.
During the launch, learners demonstrated how there is Science in Art. The launch was also filled with amazing theatrical, entertaining and musical acts, which showed an extensive level of dedication from learners. The school also promotes entrepreneurship, with learners selling jewellery, artworks and ornaments - all crafted and made by them.
“Indeed, we envision a transformative educational journey that nurtures and challenges learners' technical, creative, and academic talents. We are committed to dispelling stereotypes associated with arts education and demonstrating the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.
“Our goal is to cultivate well-rounded citizens who will contribute meaningfully to our society and beyond, and it is the learners of Khutlo-Tharo who will be the trailblazers who turn these possibilities into reality. We look forward to embarking on this journey of growth, innovation and empowerment alongside our learners, staff and community,” Chiloane said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 10:52
DWS kick-starts National Water Month
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) will be embarking on advocacy programmes as part of National Water Month.
Today, the department kick-starts National Water Month, which is conceptualised along the annual commemoration of World Water Day.
World Water Day is spearheaded by the United Nations (UN) and is observed on 22 March.
The UN uses World Water Day to focus attention on the global water crisis and raise awareness of the 2.2 billion people living without access to safe water, with the aim of aspiring nations to commit to long-term action.
This is to ensure that everyone in the world has access to safe water by 2030, while not impacting the environment.
World Water Day also brings attention to the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.
This year’s Water Day will be observed under the theme, 'Leveraging Water for Peace', which encourages communities and countries to use water as a tool for peace, when cooperating over this precious shared resource.
The theme also highlights that water can spark and intensify conflict when access is denied and usage unfairly shared.
The department said National Water Month will be used to reflect and deliver the department’s mandate in response to these challenges, with the strategies to avoid the projected deficit.
Water and Sanitation Services Policy on privately-owned land
The ministerial launch of the Water and Sanitation Services Policy on privately owned land, scheduled to take place in KwaZulu-Natal, will be the highlight of this year’s National Water Month.
“The Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, will launch this holistic policy with the intention of unifying and simplifying the provision and regulation of sustainable and equitable water services to residents living on privately-owned land,” the department said.
The month-long activities will also see Mchunu visiting Limpopo to assess progress on the Giyani Bulk Water Supply Scheme, which will benefit 24 villages.
This follows his commitment to accelerate the project through, among others, optimisation of the Giyani water treatment works to its original capacity and increase the project scope to ensure 55 villages benefit from the scheme. This is through funds allocated for reticulation and expanding access to yard connections.
To this end, the department said 24 villages are in various stages of construction and some of the villages will soon be receiving water in their taps.
“Minister Mchunu will also meet with his four counterparts from Botswana, Mozambique and Zimbabwe to sign the amendment of the Limpopo Watercourse Commission (LIMCOM) by the four riparian States which share the Limpopo River Basin and use water from the river to support various socio-economic activities, including agriculture, tourism, energy generation, as well as for domestic use.
“The agreement signed in 2003, will be amended to formalise the establishment of the LIMCOM Council of Ministers to be the main policy and decision-making body on transboundary, water resource management issues in the Limpopo River Basin,” the department said.
The department has reiterated its call to all South Africans to make a difference by changing the way they use, drink and manage water in their respective lives.
“South Africa is a dry and water-scarce country with an average annual rainfall of 470mm compared to the global annual average of 814mm. Thus, it has limited water availability, which is diminishing compared to other countries,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 10:58
eXp World Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: EXPI), the holding company for eXp Realty®, Virbela and SUCCESS® Enterprises, announced a partnership with “KGCI Real Estate on Air,” an online streaming radio channel. This innovative platform has been created to empower, inspire and foster professional growth for all real estate agents through a dynamic mix of educational, insightful …
DWS kickstarts National Water Month
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) will be embarking on advocacy programmes as part of National Water Month.
Today, the department kick-starts National Water Month, which is conceptualised along the annual commemoration of World Water Day.
World Water Day is spearheaded by the United Nations (UN) and is observed on 22 March.
The UN uses World Water Day to focus attention on the global water crisis and raise awareness of the 2.2 billion people living without access to safe water, with the aim of aspiring nations to commit to long-term action.
This is to ensure that everyone in the world has access to safe water by 2030, while not impacting the environment.
World Water Day also brings attention to the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.
This year’s Water Day will be observed under the theme, 'Leveraging Water for Peace', which encourages communities and countries to use water as a tool for peace, when cooperating over this precious shared resource.
The theme also highlights that water can spark and intensify conflict when access is denied and usage unfairly shared.
The department said National Water Month will be used to reflect and deliver the department’s mandate in response to these challenges, with the strategies to avoid the projected deficit.
Water and Sanitation Services Policy on privately-owned land
The ministerial launch of the Water and Sanitation Services Policy on privately owned land, scheduled to take place in KwaZulu-Natal, will be the highlight of this year’s National Water Month.
“The Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, will launch this holistic policy with the intention of unifying and simplifying the provision and regulation of sustainable and equitable water services to residents living on privately-owned land,” the department said.
The month-long activities will also see Mchunu visiting Limpopo to assess progress on the Giyani Bulk Water Supply Scheme, which will benefit 24 villages.
This follows his commitment to accelerate the project through, among others, optimisation of the Giyani water treatment works to its original capacity and increase the project scope to ensure 55 villages benefit from the scheme. This is through funds allocated for reticulation and expanding access to yard connections.
To this end, the department said 24 villages are in various stages of construction and some of the villages will soon be receiving water in their taps.
“Minister Mchunu will also meet with his four counterparts from Botswana, Mozambique and Zimbabwe to sign the amendment of the Limpopo Watercourse Commission (LIMCOM) by the four riparian States which share the Limpopo River Basin and use water from the river to support various socio-economic activities, including agriculture, tourism, energy generation, as well as for domestic use.
“The agreement signed in 2003, will be amended to formalise the establishment of the LIMCOM Council of Ministers to be the main policy and decision-making body on transboundary, water resource management issues in the Limpopo River Basin,” the department said.
The department has reiterated its call to all South Africans to make a difference by changing the way they use, drink and manage water in their respective lives.
“South Africa is a dry and water-scarce country with an average annual rainfall of 470mm compared to the global annual average of 814mm. Thus, it has limited water availability, which is diminishing compared to other countries,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 10:58
If you are considering abortion, it’s important to take the time to gather information, consider your options, and seek support. Here are some steps you may want to consider: Educate Yourself: Learn about the different types of abortion procedures, the potential risks and complications, and the laws and regulations regarding abortion in your area. You can consult …
We are all happy to receive romantic gifts, and that’s certainly the expectation during the month of February, thanks to Valentine’s Day. As fun as all the hearts and roses might be, the sentiments behind our perfect love stories can hide some ugly truths. Regrettably, South Africa is widely known for its alarming statistics in …
Themed around ‘Enriching your curriculum', the Schools Now! 2024 conference equipped educators and decision-makers with the tools, insights and actionable strategies necessary to enhance the educational experience for students worldwide; Education experts from around the world presented innovations and case studies in leadership, well-being and safeguarding approaches and the integration of technology in digital learning.
The conference focused on empowering subject experts within the school community to drive curriculum development and delivery; The conference delved into how educators can navigate the rise of AI and where it intersects with Africa's digital divide.
Due to technological advances and the advent of AI, Sub-Saharan Africa's education sector is undergoing rapid transformation. Educators must adapt to these new ways of working to foster important skills such as critical thinking.
While this offers opportunity, challenges also arise, such as the digital divide – a pressing issue in Africa – and the need for more comprehensive teacher training. Collaboration between stakeholders is essential to ensure equitable access to education.
With a view to enabling enhanced learning outcomes in schools, British Council's Schools Now! 2024 was held over three days in Cape Town, South Africa from 27-29 February 2024. The conference was attended by over 1000 school leaders both onsite and virtually, and served as a platform for fostering collaboration, sharing best practices and insights in international education.
The themes included digital learning, leadership, well-being, and safeguarding, adding to a rich internationalised and contextualised curriculum. Through a series of engaging keynote sessions, immersive workshops, and panel discussions, delegates explored innovative teaching approaches, curriculum enrichment strategies, and the integration of technology in education.
Martin Lowder, Head of Global Exams Services, The British Council, shared, ‘The spirit of Schools Now! is to establish global connections within the educational community, exploring insights and innovations in international education. By addressing emerging themes, we aim to empower educators to navigate the complexities of the shifting education landscape and drive positive outcomes for students.'
British Council Sub Saharan Africa, Regional Exams Director, Keshav Sreedharan, said: ‘British Council's Schools Now 2024 conference was organised in Sub-Saharan Africa for the first time since its inception. Against the backdrop of Africa's potential, particularly with its dynamic and driven young population, this conference holds the promise of unlocking new opportunities and pathways for schools adopting the UK curriculum. The vibrancy of Cape Town will ignite conversations and initiatives that will shape the future of education in Sub-Saharan Africa.'
The opening keynote session by Victoria Pendry, CEO of the Curriculum Foundation, aimed at empowering schools to develop, monitor, and evaluate an enriched curriculum. She highlighted that, ‘In a rapidly changing world, if learners are to develop resilience, creativity and the essential skills of collaboration, the curriculum must be ambitious and enriched with local and global narratives that excite imaginations and inspire curiosity.'
Her presentation explored the interconnected nature of digital learning, leadership, well-being, and safeguarding as a foundation for quality and equitable education. She summarised how ‘a curriculum that is rich in respect for the past, eager to consider preferred futures and committed to exploring different perspectives, will drive positive outcomes beyond the classroom'.
Other distinguished speakers included, Dr Funke Baffour-Awuah, Head of Well-being Division and Child Protection Lead, Al Rayan International School, Ghana, Kathleen O'Hare, British Council Education Consultant, Pamela O`Brien, Deputy Head and Jo Parkes, Deputy Head Academic from British Council School in Madrid, and adding to a rich and diverse perspective.
Tatiana Popa, Deputy Academic Director, Heritage International School, Moldova, an ISC International Education Influencer of 2023, delivered a session for virtual delegates, on ‘Digital learning', focussing on the use of AI in schools and how this will impact all areas of work, educational tools, teaching practice and much more.
An expert panel on ‘AI in Education' comprising of Kudzayi Tarisayi, Senior Lecturer, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, Reham Ali, Director of Middle and High School Education, Nermine Ismail International Schools, Egypt and Jo Parkes discussed valuable tips into how schools can ensure students are prepared for future needs dictated through the use of AI. It was eye-opening to see nearly 90% of conference delegates voice AI as a friend, not foe, signalling widespread optimism towards AI's potential benefits.
Dr Funke's keynote addressed how to ‘Develop a Well-being Framework for a Thriving School Community through the lens of ‘A Curriculum-Centred Approach.' She stressed on how ‘Integrating wellbeing into the curriculum promotes a thriving school community: By intentionally incorporating wellbeing into the curriculum, schools can create a holistic learning environment that supports the mental, emotional, and physical health of students.'
A series of workshops discussed practical aspects of implementing key learnings through a range of key thematic areas such as, ‘Leadership Synergy: Peer Coaching & Empowering Your Success' and ‘What is an innovative curriculum in an exam focussed school context' to name a few. These workshops provided school leaders with engagement tools in support of enriching the curriculum so that communities are inspired and committed to helping learners to acquire transferable skills such as problem solving and critical thinking, teamwork and communication, particularly in multi-cultural realities.
Jo Parkes' led a workshop on curriculum, reinforcing ‘the importance of reading as a fundamental aspect to an enriched curriculum. Establishing reading as the backbone of the curriculum is enormously effective but sadly often overlooked.'
Another key focus of the conference was safeguarding, recognising the importance of school community wellbeing and safety within the learning environment. Pamela O`Brien, in her workshop on ‘Developing school practices to ensure safeguarding and wellbeing of students' shared, ‘Safeguarding and wellbeing are intertwined. Creating a safe environment is key and includes not only complying with relevant laws and standards but also identifying school practices which promote the wellbeing of children and act as protective factors.'
She shared case studies from the British Council School, Madrid where ‘Policies, systems and procedures have led to consistency and best practice. We can only say a policy, or a system is working if we see it in practice and the entire school community plays their part.'
The conference also provided British Council's Action Research Grants recipients from Partner Schools the opportunity to share valuable findings from their respective research areas. A thought-provoking session by Amira Soliman Awaad, Director of Curriculum and Instruction from Dr. Nermien Ismail International Schools in Egypt showcased how ‘Digitized Blended Learning Methods' such as the ‘Flipped Classroom' and ‘Exit Tickets' save class time and yield real-time intervention data, translating them into needed interventions for struggling students or requirements for increased rigour in the curricula.'
Schools are managing a variety of changes and development, and the British Council supports our Partner Schools to approach new challenges through training, guidance and encouraging collaborative practice. As education continues to evolve in response to the changing needs of learners, the Schools Now! conference plays a crucial role in driving progress and innovation within the sector. By harnessing the collective expertise and passion of school leaders and decision makers, the conference serves as a catalyst for transformative change, ultimately enriching the educational experiences of students worldwide.
By championing safety and well-being, embracing technological advancements, and leadership in schools, and thereby promoting an enriched curriculum, the outcomes of Schools Now! Conference focused on empowering educators to create engaging, student-centred learning environments that prepare learners for success in the 21st century and beyond.
Key takeaways from the event will be available on the Schools Now! website page: https://apo-opa.co/48AabS7
British Council South Africa Country Director, George Barrett, said: ‘British Council Partner Schools programme supports over 40 Partner Schools in South Africa and 785 in Sub Saharan Africa to deliver UK International School Qualifications on behalf of UK awarding bodies. Our educational support enables schools to enhance the learning experience for students, improving educational outcomes and giving young people in the region access to international opportunities.'
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of British Council.
For media enquiries, please contact: Susan Amu, Regional Head of Communications at susan.amu@britishcouncil.org.
About Schools Now! 2024:
British Council's Schools Now! is a global conference that fosters educational innovation across our global community of over 2,500 British Council Partner Schools spread across over 40 countries. The conference is aimed at educational professionals who wish to learn more about key areas of international education, share their ideas and experiences, and network with like-minded peers. The conference connects over 300 delegates face to face with a further 2,000 virtual attendees from around the world. The Schools Now! 2024 conference was held at The Westin, Cape Town, on 27-29 February 2024.
For more information visit https://apo-opa.co/48AabS7
About British Council Partner Schools:
A trusted education partner, we help improve the quality of education, supporting learners worldwide to achieve their potential through access to life changing UK education and qualifications.
The British Council supports a global community of over 2500 Partner Schools, to enhance the learning experience, improving educational outcomes. We create global connections within the educational community to support professional pathways for educators, enable enriched learning journeys and prepare students for the future. We support our Partner Schools to deliver globally trusted UK International School Qualifications, in over 40 countries transforming the lives of over 250,000 students every year.
For more information, please visit https://apo-opa.co/49z4XHD
Keep updated by following British Council Partner Schools LinkedIn https://apo-opa.co/4bV9xBC
About the British Council:
We support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide.
We uniquely combine the UK's deep expertise in arts and culture, education and the English language, our global presence and relationships in over 100 countries, our unparalleled access to young people and influencers and our creative sparkle.
We work directly with individuals to help them gain the skills, confidence and connections to transform their lives and shape a better world in partnership with the UK. We support them to build networks and explore creative ideas, to learn English, to get a high-quality education and to gain internationally recognised qualifications.
We work with governments and our partners in the education, English language and cultural sectors, in the UK and globally. Working together we make a bigger difference, creating benefit for millions of people all over the world.
We work with people in over 200 countries and territories and are on the ground in more than 100 countries. In 2022–23 we reached 600 million people.
For more information, please visit: www.BritishCouncil.org. You can also keep in touch with the British Council through https://apo-opa.co/3TiuzmC and https://apo-opa.co/3Tiumzu
KZN continues quest to remain most favoured investment destination
While unemployment figures may cause despair, KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, says the rate of investment into the province is a sign that tomorrow will be better than today.
“As KwaZulu-Natal, we faced an uphill battle in ensuring that investor confidence is unwavering, despite challenges with load shedding, the civil unrest, ageing utilities' infrastructure, some of which could not withstand the recent floods. Yet we remain determined to continue in our quest to ensure that investors know that KwaZulu-Natal is and remains the most favoured investment destination in Southern Africa,” Dube-Ncube said.
The Premier made the remarks when delivering the State of the Province Address (SOPA) at the Oval Cricket Stadium in Pietermaritzburg on Wednesday.
Dube-Ncube said during the South African Investment Conference (SAIC) held last year, where President Ramaphosa’s target was exceeded by some R306 billion, KwaZulu-Natal’s share included 55 companies in the province, which invested over R300 billion.
Dube-Ncube said some of the investments are located in the province's Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Richards Bay and Dube Trade Port, and around the province.
“Targeted business expansion and retention support activities amounted to over R23 billion, resulting in 37 201 jobs being created. Added to this are investments attracted by Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN) over the last two decades, amounting to over R60 billion and creating over 95 000 jobs,” Dube-Ncube said.
The Premier said KwaZulu-Natal is committed to the establishment of new leather and textile Special Economic Zones in the Newcastle and Ladysmith corridor, which are estimated at R600 million.
She said the two new SEZs will add to the two provincial SEZs of Dube Trade Port and Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ), and will create 4 500 employment opportunities.
According to the Premier, 35 Black Industrialists have been supported by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and for grant funding, and they will create approximately 4 000 jobs. She said the target is to support 10 new Black Industrialists in the coming financial year.
“KwaZulu-Natal has 35 small scale fisheries cooperatives comprising 1 000 small scale fishers registered by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. Government has rolled out training to capacitate these fishers in the variety of Ocean Economy and Maritime technical skills,” the Premier said.
Dube-Ncube also highlighted some government-led projects to create jobs, including the Port of Durban's R1.34 billion investment programme aimed at upgrading port facilities to mainly increase port capacity. This created 1 328 jobs.
The Passenger Rail Agency South Africa (PRASA) has also spent over R900 million in KwaZulu-Natal through its capital programme on investment and infrastructure works.
“This includes projects on rolling stock upgrades, including the Bridge City Development with a new rail network, new access gates and CCTV cameras and stations, and the Dalbridge turnaround facility and general infrastructure station improvement. These were never there prior to this government.
“In 2023, the R2 billion Dr Pixley ka lsaka Seme Regional Hospital was officially opened with 500 beds and a full package of regional services provided. This hospital has changed lives, especially in the Phoenix, lnanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu (PINK) area, and created 5 312 jobs during construction,” Dube-Ncube highlighted.
The Premier acknowledged that government alone cannot address the enormous developmental challenges faced by the province.
“In order to accelerate development, we have partnered with the private sector to stimulate our economy. The public and private projects, worth over R129 billion, have created over 339 000 jobs,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 10:05
By Hoosen Essof – Head of Employability at Regent Business School The demand for highly skilled and adaptable professionals has never been greater. As businesses navigate the complexities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and the Digital Era, they require graduates equipped not only with technical expertise but also with the soft skills and innovative …
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP BY JASON GRIESSEL, Head of Cushman & Wakefield | BROLL Strategic Risk Services, who shares strategic forecasts and proactive strategies to ensure resilient real estate investments for the future. Charting uncharted waters: A quintet of challenges for South Africa’s built environment In an era marked by unprecedented change and complexity, the “Global Risks Report …
African nations adopt digital and social media guidelines
The Association of African Election Authorities (AAEA) has launched a set of principles and guidelines aimed at getting the most out of digital and social media, while mitigating its potential harms.
The guidelines, launched on Tuesday, emphasise the dangers of social media abuse, and call for responsible use and accountability from both platform owners and users.
The launch event was attended by 16 African Election Management Bodies (EMB) from countries that will hold elections in 2024 and 2025.
The guidelines encourage African EMBs to develop a clear and comprehensive plan for responsible social media use during election campaigns. It emphasises the critical roles governments and regulatory bodies can play in safeguarding electoral processes across Africa.
In addition, the guidelines encourage African states and regulatory authorities to refrain from imposing measures that might disrupt access to the internet, and to digital and social media.
Furthermore, they call on social media operators to treat political parties and candidates equitably and ensure that their online messaging, including that of their supporters, does not undermine electoral integrity or contravene human rights.
Speaking at the launch in Johannesburg, the AAEA President, who is also the Chairperson of the Mozambique National Election Commission, Reverend Carlos Simao Matsinhe, said the guidelines are an invaluable resource for protecting elections integrity and credibility.
He said the fight against disinformation is critical because left unmitigated, it can have a deleterious impact on the credibility of elections. He urged EMBs to socialise the guidelines in their respective countries.
South Africa, through grant funding by the African Renaissance and International Cooperation Fund, played an important role in developing the guidelines.
In his keynote address, South Africa’s Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, pledged the country's support for socialising the principles and guidelines.
“The reality is that the political environment during elections is tense and volatile, and we should use social media with responsibility to ensure that the content we share is credible and accurate. I urge political parties that participate in robust debate on social media to uphold ethical standards and refrain from going too far in being unjust, deceptive, or hateful,” said Mashatile.
The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of South Africa, Mosotho Moepya, urged all stakeholders to play their role in ensuring that the guidelines are widely socialised and implemented, not only to increase voter confidence and trust in electoral processes, but also to ensure the deepening of democratic values.
Echoing Moepya's sentiments, the representative of the African Union Commission (AUC), Ambassador William Awinador-Kanyirige, said the adoption of the guidelines will play a huge role in the transformation and handling of elections in Africa.
“The existence of these principles and guidelines will go a long way in inspiring other countries to follow the same steps, thus promoting peaceful elections,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 10:23
When considering the essential tools for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene within various facilities, ride-on auto scrubbers stand out for their efficiency and effectiveness. The Equipment Company, a renowned provider of cleaning solutions, offers a range of ride-on auto scrubbers that cater to the diverse needs of different companies, buildings, and facilities. We supply and maintain …
B-well is thrilled to announce its partnership with the Sense of Taste Chef School, based in Maitland, Cape Town. The collaboration will see B-well supplying the school and its community feeding programme with the complete range of B-well products, made from homegrown canola. “We are very excited to partner with Sense of Taste,” says Lunique …