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Zikalala announces construction of over 100 Welisizwe bridges
The sight of schoolchildren crossing swelling and dangerous rivers in the country’s rural areas is expected to be a thing of the past, thanks to the R3.3 billion budget allocated to build 134 Welisizwe bridges in six provinces.
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala made the announcement during the launch of Welisizwe bridges construction project on Friday.
The Welisizwe bridges project is a government initiative aimed at addressing the backlog of bridges infrastructure in rural and disadvantaged communities.
The bridges will improve communities’ access to health facilities, schools and economic amenities.
The project involves the Public Works and Infrastructure Department, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and provincial Transport Departments.
Zikalala said R1.1 billion will be spent per year in the Eastern Cape - which is the pilot for Welisizwe Bridges Programme, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, Mpumalanga, Limpopo and the North West.
The programme targets rural provinces where there is a backlog in the construction of bridges and a threat of life during rainy seasons.
“Welisizwe Bridges not only makes access possible to many communities, but also is labour intensive, creating a number of working opportunities through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).
“A number of skills like welding, ground work and soil retention are transferred to the workers. Each bridge site has seven SANDF members who oversee all the projects, five artisans and 40 EPWP workers,” Zikalala said.
The launch was held at two construction sites in Port St Johns, Eastern Cape.
Accompanied by the Eastern Cape Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha and Port St Johns Local Municipality Mayor, Nomvuzo Mlombile-Cingo, Zikalala visited the sites of the Sunrise and Ntlenga bridges, which are 50% complete.
“The Department of Defence (SA Army) has committed to providing assistance with regards to construction vehicles, construction machine operators, artisans and the expansion of the Military Temporary Bases where necessary.
“Since the programme is expected to deliver 48 legacy bridges plus 96 bridges initially announced by the President for the 2023/24 financial year, phased construction will take place simultaneously at all bridge sites with augmented resources to a total of 100 bridges in all six provinces,” Zikalala explained.
The Welisizwe Rural Bridges Programme was initiated to respond to emergency situations in relation to river-crossings. In 2020, Cabinet supported the Welisizwe Implementation Model. The programme was gazetted in July 2020 as Strategic Integrated Project (SIP) No 25 as part of the Infrastructure Development Stimulus Package to boost the economy.
Planned ctheonstruction of bridges in the MTEF 2023/24 -2025/26 is as follows:
- SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 10/27/2023 - 16:24
Rugby World Cup fever mounts
South Africans across the country are gripped by the green and gold fever ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup final on Saturday, which will pit South Africa’s Springboks against the All Blacks from New Zealand.
If the semi-final is anything to go by, the final game promises to be a nail-biting encounter that will keep every fan on the edge of their seat as the teams go head-to-head at 9pm sharp.
From schools, companies, and restaurants to social media posts, the Springbok jersey-wearing South Africans are counting down the hours to what will go down in history as one of the most memorable World Cup finals in Stade de France.
If South Africa wins, this will be the first time any country will hold four Rugby World Cup titles.
Even President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to be cheering in the crowd as he will be travelling to Paris to support the Springboks in their quest to defend the Webb Ellis trophy.
“The President is really looking forward to being invited onto the pitch for a second time by captain Siya Kolisi to help lift the cup for the world champions,” said the President’s Office.
Meanwhile, Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa on Friday joined the Springbok captain’s run to send well wishes to the Bokke.
“The Springboks are ready for the final. This is your team, fellow South Africans. Let’s get behind our pride and joy! Yivale maBhokobhoko,” he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
According to SA Rugby, Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber predicts a powerful onslaught from the All Blacks and said they posed threats in every aspect of the game.
“Matches between the Springboks and All Blacks are always special and hard-fought, and with this being a World Cup final, the rivalry is expected to be more intense. They have an experienced squad with a physical pack and a backline that can create magic from nothing, so we’ll have to be at our best on attack and defence to get the result.”
For Springbok fans, SuperSport, the home of the Rugby World Cup 2023, will broadcast the final match live.
The South African game will be also shown on SABC.
And for those who prefer big screens and a bit of a crowd, provinces across South Africa are gearing up for the showdown and bringing on the heat to support the Bokke by having dedicated fan parks.
Some of these, of which most entrance is free, fans can also enjoy some live music in the build-up to the game.
Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation in Mpumalanga, said it has identified three sites for public viewing, one in each district of the province.
“These public viewing areas will be located in previously disadvantaged communities, which over the years have shown growing interest in the sport of rugby.”
Where to watch the Rugby World Cup across the country.
Eastern Cape
Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (free entry, gates open at 7pm).
Sisa Dukashe Stadium (Mdantsane).
Police Park (East London).
Baby Swag (Zwelitsha).
Macelegusha.
Northern Cape
AR Abass Stadium in Kimberley (gates open at 4pm to enjoy some live musical entertainment in the build-up to the game).
Limpopo
Civic Centre Park in Polokwane (free entry).
Mpumalanga
Nkangala District (Siyabuswa Retail Centre, Dr JS Moroka Local Municipality).
Gert Sibande District (Loft Lounge Corner Ennis and Oosthuise Street, Ermelo, Msukaligwa Local Municipality).
Ehlanzeni District (Praxos Butchery, Schoemansdal, Nkomazi Local Municipality).
Gauteng
Soweto Theatre in Johannesburg (gates to open from 7pm). Fans can also expect to be entertained by Jozi FM DJs in the lead-up to the game.
Pretoria’s Loftus Park (gates open at 6pm). R 120 per person for general admission includes a free parking ticket and can be purchased electronically.
North West
Hoërskool Rustenburg (Bojanala) and Maseru Park (Mahikeng).
Free State
SaamTrek Fan Park – Phakisa Raceway.
Western Cape
Bree Street (between Church and Hout Street, Cape Town CBD). There will be soft road closures from Wale to Strand Street and Loop to Buitengracht, including all side roads leading to the venue.
Monwabisi Sport and Recreation Centre (Langa).
Westridge Civic Centre (Mitchells Plain).
KwaZulu-Natal
Durban ICC (gates swing open at 7pm). Fans can expect the big screen, refreshing drinks and delectable food, drink specials and secure and hassle-free parking facilities.
Pietermaritzburg’s Woodburn Rugby Stadium (gate to open at 3pm). Children below 12 years free and there will be food stalls live music and secured parking. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 10/27/2023 - 15:28
World Rugby clears Mbongeni Mbonambi
World Rugby has determined that there is insufficient evidence at this time to proceed with charges against South African rugby player Mbongeni Mbonambi.
Mbonambi was accused by England’s Tom Curry of using discriminatory language during the England versus South Africa Rugby World Cup 2023 semi-final last Saturday.
In addition, a further allegation was brought forward in recent days about a previous match in the Autumn Nations Series 2022.
“Any allegation of discrimination is taken extremely seriously by World Rugby, warranting a thorough investigation. Having considered all the available evidence, including match footage, audio and evidence from both teams, the governing body has determined that there is insufficient evidence at this time to proceed with charges.
“Therefore, the matter is deemed closed unless additional evidence comes to light,” World Rugby said in a statement on Thursday.
The body said it accepts that Curry made the allegations in good faith, and that there is no suggestion that the allegation was deliberately false or malicious.
“World Rugby is also concerned by the social media abuse that both players have been subjected to this week. There is no place in rugby or society for discrimination, abuse or hate speech, and World Rugby urges fans to embrace the sport’s values of respect, integrity and solidarity,” it said.
This news comes ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup final where South Africa will take on New Zealand, also known as the All Blacks, at Stade de France in Paris, on Saturday.
The Rugby World Cup final kicks off at 9pm and will be broadcast live on SuperSport and SABC.
Excitement is mounting in the country, with supporters looking forward to watching the historic World Cup final game, which will also be screened at various fan parks.
The City of Cape Town has announced three public viewing areas and the Free State province will have a fan park at the SaamTrek Fan Park - Phakisa Raceway.
“The World Cup this year has been one of the most exciting and unifying sporting events in our nation's history. For the final, the City is pleased to announce three public viewing sites in the CBD, Langa and Mitchells Plain where residents can get together and hopefully watch the Springboks make history by winning the title for a fourth time,” Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis said.
Free State MEC for Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Thabo Meeko, called on citizens to back the national rugby team at the SaamTrek Fan Park - Phakisa Raceway.
Entrance will be free. Additional activities and entertainment include a kiddie’s village, biker stunts show, car drifting, music performances, food stalls, and tourism products exhibitions. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 10/26/2023 - 11:01
The South African Weather Service warns of possibly hot and dry summer ahead
Government committed to dealing with challenges facing traditional leaders
Government remains committed to swiftly addressing issues confronting traditional and Khoi-San leaders.
This is according to Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who was speaking at a gathering on Tuesday called by the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders in Bloemfontein, Free State.
“We will continue to support initiatives that benefit our indigenous communities. We will also continue to provide sufficient funding for education, healthcare, and social services so that no one falls behind,” Mashatile told the leaders.
Mashatile, who was leading the meeting in his capacity as chairperson of the inter-ministerial task team on matters of traditional and Khoi-San leaders, called on the private sector to actively engage with traditional communities through investing in local businesses and projects.
“Through initiatives such as skills development programmes, entrepreneurship training and mentorship, we can collectively unlock the entrepreneurial spirit that resides within our traditional communities,” the Deputy President stressed.
As government works towards the promotion of development and social cohesion in traditional communities, Mashile reminded the leaders that the journey requires collective effort.
“Let us recognise the immense potential that lies within our traditional communities, waiting to be unleashed. Together, we can create a future where traditional and modern ways of being thrive side by side, where development and social cohesion go hand in hand.”
The Deputy President said he was inspired by the unwavering commitment to overcoming the complex developmental challenges that traditional communities face.
“It is important for all of us to come together and collaborate in order to achieve a future that is not only prosperous but also united in diversity and anchored on the prospects of a greater South African nation that has, at its core, the interests of improving and nurturing the lives of those in our rural communities.”
President Cyril Ramaphosa established the inter-ministerial task team in 2020 to consolidate all efforts and unblock issues that impede the resolution of matters.
“We are also committed to play our part in supporting this institution of traditional leadership, for the advancement of all our people.”
Providing support for traditional authorities and rural communities is, according to the Deputy President, of paramount importance.
He also vowed that the state will find ways to bridge the gap between traditional and modern practices to strike a delicate balance that preserves cultural heritage while propelling the nation forward.
“We must preserve our history and knowledge systems, such that these may also shape the future that we imagine, a future that is both inclusive and progressive.
“The South African government remains committed to protecting the rights of traditional authorities and their communities.”
He also spoke about dealing with discrepancies between the rural and urban, in terms of development, service delivery and overall well-being.
Mashatile acknowledged that rural communities still face several challenges.
These, he said, include limited access to information and communication technology services in rural communities, gender-based violence and femicide, teenage pregnancy, drugs and substance abuse, unemployment, HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, and inadequate access to water and electricity.
In the same breath, however, he said the government has made some progress over the years.
According to Mashatile, government has provided water between 1996 and 2022, with the percentage of households with no access to piped water dropping from 19.7% to 8.7%.
“This is a significant milestone and has improved the lives of our communities, especially women and girls in rural areas,” he said, adding that the State was looking to fast-track development in rural areas.
On technology, he said it was crucial to strategically allocate investments towards the infrastructure networks in rural regions.
He believes that this will enable people to attain essential amenities, including water and sanitation facilities, reliable electricity supply and maintained road networks.
In addition, Mashatile said it would establish connectivity between their residences, workplaces, educational establishments, and healthcare facilities. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 14:19
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Mashatile to address National House of Traditional Leaders gathering
Deputy President Paul Mashatile is expected to participate and speak at a gathering convened by the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders.
According to the Presidency, he will meet with the leaders as Chairperson of the inter-ministerial task team on matters of traditional and Khoi-San leaders, at the Ilanga Estate, Bloemfontein, Free State, on Tuesday, 24 October.
The 2023 Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders Xivijo, will focus on promoting development and social cohesion in traditional communities through cooperation with government and the private sector.
The meeting will emphasise the purpose and objective of building cohesive communities driven by the vision for development, Ubuntu and self-sustainability.
Xivijo is a Xitsonga expression of a gathering, usually called by the traditional leadership.
Representatives of the National, Provincial and Local Houses of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (Contralesa), the Royal Leaders of South Africa (Rolesa), National Khoi-San Council, government and private sector representatives are expected to attend the gathering.
The aim, the Presidency said, is to engage on all matters affecting the institution of traditional leadership and its contribution to rural development.
“Established by the President, the inter-ministerial task team led by Deputy President Mashatile, will during this candid session, present progress reports on work carried out by various work streams led by Cabinet Ministers in addressing issues raised by the traditional leadership.”
This programme will include progress achieved in several areas including:
• Advancing land ownership, tenure rights and fast-tracking socio-economic development of rural communities.
• Building institutional capacity and ensuring support to traditional and Khoi-San leaders.
• Advancing infrastructure investment and skills development in rural communities.
• Promoting unity, social cohesion and nation-building in rural communities.
• Fast-tracking the finalisation of policy, legislative and constitutional matters.
“Government is committed to work together with the institution of traditional leadership in addressing the socio-economic challenges facing the country and it is also dedicated to strengthening the significant role they play, in the reconstruction and development of the country, especially in rural areas,” said the Presidency.
The Deputy President will be accompanied by Cabinet Ministers, Free State Premier, Mxolisi Dukwana, and senior government officials. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 09:37
Majority of independent poultry, egg producers unaffected by bird flu
Cabinet has noted that the majority of independent poultry and egg producers have not been affected by avian flu as several South African farmers work around the clock to curb the outbreak.
This is according to the Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who said they were updated on containment measures to limit the spread and impact of avian influenza.
“Cabinet has noted that majority of independent poultry and egg producers have not been affected by avian flu,” said the Minister who was briefing the media on Thursday about the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held yesterday.
The outbreak, according to the Minster, has “severely” affected the economy and the poultry sector.
“The Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Thoko Didiza, has met with retailers and the South African Poultry Association to discuss possible solutions in the short and the medium term to increase egg and chicken supply,” said Ntshavheni.
According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), avian influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that affects poultry and wild birds.
The NICD said there are currently two different strains that are causing avian influenza outbreaks in South Africa, these are influenza A(H5N1) and influenza A (H7N6).
The public health institute noted that the current influenza A(H5N1) has been ongoing since April 2023.
Meanwhile, the NICD said the influenza A(H7N6) has been reported since June 2023, with 50 outbreaks to date recorded in poultry farms in the Free State, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West and KwaZulu-Natal and non-poultry birds in Gauteng.
“Internationally, sporadic cases of influenza A(H5N1) infection have been reported in humans, related to outbreaks in birds but infection in humans remains very rare,” it said in a statement.
Globally, the NICD said only eight cases of influenza A(H5N1) in humans have been reported to the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2023, despite large outbreaks in poultry and wild birds across the globe.
“These cases have been linked to close contact with infected birds such as handling, culling, slaughtering or processing.
“Current circulating strains of avian influenza have not been shown to transmit from person to person.”
However, the institute said the risk of transmission of influenza A(H5N1) and influenza A(H7N6) from infected birds to humans is extremely low.
“In the uncommon instance where avian influenza is transmitted to humans, the most common route of transmission of avian influenza is airborne, through aerosolisation of virus particles from live birds or during the culling process.”
Any persons with known or suspected close contact with dead or sick birds, especially birds with confirmed A(H5N1) or A(H7N6) infection and present with upper or lower respiratory tract symptoms such as cough, runny nose, scratchy throat, or pneumonia and/or conjunctivitis should be investigated, the NICD advised. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 10/19/2023 - 11:18
“Believing that one pursues a worthy cause in the public interest does not justify publishing false statements about another party”
Mangaung Concerned Community want jobs
Safeguarding the future of those who teach
While one may no longer remember the name of the classroom teacher’s pet, chances are that one will never forget the name of that special teacher who changed the course of one’s life.
While we grow up to leave our school tomfooleries behind, teachers continue to leave an indelible mark in the lives of pupils.
“Passionate teachers often inspire and motivate their students. Passion for the subject matter and a genuine interest in the well-being of students can greatly impact the effectiveness of teaching,” said acting Chief Director of Education Human Resource Development at the Department of Basic Education, Lala Maje.
While teachers work hard to shape learners into the adults of tomorrow, who is helping newly qualified teachers to transition into the classroom environment?
This is where the Department of Basic Education’s (DBE) New Teacher Induction Programme (NTIP) comes in.
The programme is intended to support new teachers who are placed in schools within their first two years of permanent employment.
“NTIP is a programme that introduces the new teacher to the teaching profession, to the resources available, to the support that the DBE and all stakeholders avail to the teachers,” said Maje.
Teachers have to register on the learning management system for the programme. The one-year programme comprises seven modules that are linked to the Professional Teaching Standards.
The Professional Teaching Standards and the Ethical Teaching Standards forms the basis of teaching being a profession and that is managed and guided by the South African Council of Educators (SACE).
A teacher must register with SACE before they can practice in schools.
The programme also supports SACE in ensuring that Professional Teaching Standards and the code of ethics are infused in the daily life of teachers,” said Maje.
The induction is based on four pillars namely mentoring, training, professional development and peer support.
The programme was set up after the Teacher Education Summit held by the DBE and the Department of Higher Education and Training in 2009.
Since its inception in 2017, the partnership between the DBE and Flemish Association for Development Cooperation and Technical Assistance (VVOB) has enabled the development of material and programmes which led to the 2020 school calendar year pilot of the programme.
The DBE has also worked with provincial education departments and partnered with the SACE, JET Education Services, the North-West University and the University of Witwatersrand to develop the programme for all new teachers that join the teaching profession.
Support
New teachers are also provided with mentors that are identified by their respective schools.
Feedback received is that teachers are appreciative of the support provided by the programme.
“The teachers find that the topics covered assist them to deal with a number of issues, classroom management, discipline in school and classrooms, diversity management, inclusive teaching, as well as work and life balance, to mention but a few. Teachers want the programme, it provides real life practical experience and examples,” said Maje.
She added that while all the provinces have been supporting new teachers, this was not standardised.
“All provinces have been supporting new teachers; it was just not standardised at national. The support was in the form of workshops on curriculum, on general human resource matters, many webinars on teacher wellbeing and wellness.
“There was no national programme that a teacher can register and complete with evidence that indeed the new teacher underwent an induction programme. The DBE then partnered with VVOB to design a thoroughly researched programme and make it available for new teachers for free.”
Progress
The programme is being implemented on a phased in approach.
“Since the 2020 pilot, there was a round table in March 2023 where a decision was [taken] that the programme be phased in in four provinces [namely the] Free State, North West, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.
“The other five provinces are implementing however not under the tight monitoring of DBE. This is allowing them to be fully ready when we implement in their provinces in 2024,” she explained.
She added that the provincial education departments are part of the interprovincial meetings that DBE holds with the nine provinces on a monthly basis.
“It should also be noted that all provinces are supporting new teachers. The difference with the model brought by the DBE is [a] common standard across all provincial education departments, as well as the fact that the NTIP model has four pillars.”
Teachers’ Month
In South Africa October is Teachers’ Month and on 5 October, the country joined the world in commemorating World Teachers’ Day.
The day which is commemorated annually, aims to raise awareness, understanding and appreciation for the vital contribution that teachers make to education and development across the globe.
The day has been declared jointly by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to celebrate the critical work that teachers do.
At the National Teachers’ Awards, held on World Teachers’ Day, the South African government reaffirmed its commitment to reinforcing teacher support and prioritising the professional growth of those who are the key drivers of basic education.
“Such a posture is critical in that it boosts their personal prowess and propels our schools towards unparalleled achievements. The wellness of all public servants in the Department of Basic Education must as such remain a priority,” Deputy President Paul Mashatile said at the 23rd edition of the awards.
The awards honour teachers who have demonstrated exceptional performance and commitment in different areas of their work.
Recognition and experience
Maje who was a teacher herself, said recognition for teachers is essential not only for morale but also for attracting and retaining talented individuals in the teaching profession.
“When teachers feel valued and supported, they are more likely to be motivated, innovative, and dedicated to their students' success.”
Speaking at a media briefing earlier this month, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga said that education plays a critical role in providing the country with critical skills that will enable economic growth while also fighting poverty and unemployment.
“Teachers are at the centre of this critical imperative. UNESCO repeatedly stated that the quality of any education system is as good as the quality of its teachers. The continuous improvements that we have experienced within our education system broadly and in our schooling in particular is largely due to the efforts and sacrifices of our teachers,” said the Minister.
The Minister said while the education system is experiencing severe challenges including backlogs in infrastructure development, overcrowding and shortage of other educational resources, “it is our teachers who have made the center to hold.”
Maje said efforts to enhance the recognition of teachers often involve a combination of policy changes, increased investment in education, and societal shifts in perception. She also referred to the Integrated Strategic Planning Framework for Teacher Education and Development. The primary outcome of the plan is to improve the quality of teacher education and development in order to improve the quality of teachers and teaching.
Planning and organising things in time are some of the lessons Maje has learned over the course of the years as a teacher.
She also notes “the knowledge that as a teacher you determine the future of the country with the content that you offer to the young minds.” She further adds that “the limitations of the teacher can be detrimental to development of the young mind.”
It is also important for teachers to keep learning all the time since knowledge is evolving and for them to be active participants in the matters of their respective communities.
Maje also called on teachers to take care of themselves.
“Achieving a work-life balance is an ongoing challenge for many teachers. Learning to prioritise self-care and maintaining a healthy balance between personal and professional life is important for sustained success in the field.”
While learner support is a critical ingredient for success, support for future unforgettable teachers is equally as important. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 10/17/2023 - 09:59
Teacher supply and demand by 2030: Securing SA’s future
South African teachers aren’t operating on survival mode since the public sector has solved the teacher shortages, writes Angie Motshekga.
As South Africa marks Teachers' Month, coinciding with last week's ceremony honouring the best in our teaching cohort, it's imperative to recognise the vital role teachers play in moulding our nation's future. The public sector's successful resolution of teacher shortages means our educators are no longer merely on “survival mode” even though resource constraints remain. Their impact, frequently extending beyond the classroom, is immeasurable. The significance of the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme in bolstering South Africa's teaching profession is commendable. Here in black and white are facts and figures about teachers in SA today.
Since its inception, the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme has facilitated the training and integration of new teachers into our educational system. From 2007, marking the year when bursars completed their studies and became eligible for placement in 2008, up to the most recent data for 2023, a cumulative total of 52 099 teachers have successfully completed their training through the Funza Lushaka programme.
This underscores its success in supporting teachers and rejuvenating the nation’s educational system with well-trained professionals.
The impact of Funza Lushaka on teacher placement: A decade in review
As we delve deeper into the data related to the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme, another significant aspect comes to the fore – the successful placement of these trained educators within our educational system. This ensures that our investment in human capital translates into tangible benefits for our learners and the broader education sector.
From 2013 to 31 August 2023, spanning a decade and seven months, we have witnessed impressive placement rates across our Provincial Education Departments (PEDs).
Eastern Cape: Out of 6 608 trained teachers, 4 869 have been successfully placed, representing a placement rate of 74%. However, 1 739 remain unplaced.
Free State: Here, we see a higher placement percentage. Of the 3 092 educators, 2 752 have found positions, marking an 89% placement rate, leaving only 340 unplaced.
Gauteng: This province has seen the training of 9 423 teachers, with 8 002 of them (or 85%) being effectively integrated into schools. However, 1 421 are still seeking placement.
KwaZulu-Natal: With 9 012 trained educators, 6 908 have been placed (77%), while 2 104 await placement.
Limpopo: This province boasts one of the highest placement rates at 94%. Of 4 623 educators, 4 347 have been placed, leaving a mere 276 unplaced.
Mpumalanga: Here, 4 006 teachers were trained, and 3161 (or 79%) have been placed, leaving 845 awaiting placement.
North West: An impressive 96% placement rate is observed here. Of the 2 543 educators, 2 436 have found their roles in the education system, with only 107 still unplaced.
Northern Cape: Another province with an excellent placement rate of 96%. Of 1 166 educators, 1 115 have been effectively placed, and 51 remain unplaced.
Western Cape: From 6 867 educators, 5,127 have been successfully placed, making the rate 75%. However, 1 740 educators are still seeking placement.
Of the 47 340 educators trained over the past decade and seven months, 38 717 have been effectively placed within our educational system, representing an overall placement rate of 82%. While this achievement is worth celebrating, the data also underscores the need to address the 8 623 educators awaiting placement.
In other words, since 2013, 38 717 out of 47 340 Funza Lushaka graduates have found placement in schools, representing approximately 81.78% of these graduates. This translates to an average placement of about 4 300 graduates per annum. To put this into perspective, Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme graduates placed in schools account for 20-25% of all graduates absorbed into the public education system each year. This figure is a testament to the programme’s significant contribution to rejuvenating the teaching profession.
The financial magnitude of investing in tomorrow’s teachers
However, a programme of this magnitude comes with substantial financial commitment. Between 2007 and 2022, the cumulative financial outlay for the scheme across all participating Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) amounts to a staggering R13 115 645 580.95.
These figures highlight the vast number of future educators being nurtured through the programme and the immense financial commitment to ensuring their readiness to shape the next generation. It’s essential to view this not merely as an expenditure but as a significant investment in the future of South Africa’s basic education system.
Investing in today’s educators for a brighter tomorrow
In 2023 alone, across all HEIs, some 10864 students have been funded to pursue their dreams of becoming educators. This comes at the cost of the fiscus of R1 164 539 332.47. This figure showcases a substantial investment into nurturing teaching professionals who will go on to play an integral role in our basic education system.
It’s worth noting that behind each bursary is an aspiring educator, a beacon of hope equipped to inspire our nation’s youth. This investment signifies belief in the transformative power of education and those who deliver it.
Teacher supply and demand by 2030
The cepartment’s research indicates two major factors: the ageing teaching workforce, which necessitates a new influx of educators, and a surge in learner numbers due to population growth. Given the current learner-educator ratio (LER) of 29.8:1, we employ around 405 000 educators in the public sector. However, by 2030, to maintain this LER, we’d require about 428 000 educators. Failing to meet this could result in the LER spiking to 31.6:1, signifying larger class sizes and potentially diminishing the quality of education. The challenge is further compounded when considering that funding plays a significant role in our ability to recruit and maintain these educators.
But here’s the silver lining: there’s already a surplus. Every year, while 31,000 fresh teacher graduates step out, only 18 000 to 20 000 are absorbed into the public sector, creating a significant reservoir.
However, quantity alone isn’t the solution. As the curriculum evolves with the Three Streams Model focusing on technical vocational and technical occupational streams, the quality and specialisation of training become paramount. Our bursary schemes must pivot, possibly minimising the general academic stream and emphasising the new curricular needs.
*Angie Motshekga is the Basic Education Minister in South Africa.
Matona
Mon, 10/16/2023 - 09:59
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Free State MEC to appear in court
A Free State Member of the Executive Council (MEC), a political advisor to the Matjhabeng Local Municipality and a Chief Director are scheduled to appear before the Kroonstad Magistrates Court today.
They will appear in court on Friday, 13 October on allegations of fraud, corruption, money laundering, and contravention of the Municipal Finance Management Act 56 of 2003.
They were arrested on Thursday afternoon by members of the Hawks` Serious Corruption Investigation unit based in Bloemfontein.
The matter emanates from a 2017 incident when the MEC was still the Executive Mayor.
It is alleged that the three suspects colluded to take over R150 000 belonging to Moqhaka Local Municipality, under the guise that the money would be spent on a sound system to be used during a Nelson Mandela memorial lecture.
The event never took place, despite money having been transacted out of the municipal bank account.
Free State Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), Major General Mokgadi Bokaba has applauded investigators working on the case for their hard work, which led to the court issuing warrants of arrest.
She encouraged them to pursue all matters they are investigating with vigour. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 09:36
Census 2022 shows decrease in orphans in the country
South Africa's Census 2022 national results has shown a decrease in the percentage of children aged 0-17 who are orphans in the country.
“KwaZulu-Natal observed the highest decrease in all orphanhood types from 2011 to 2022. Paternal orphans are highest in all censuses and provinces,” Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke said.
The data from Census 2022, which Maluleke handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday in Pretoria, indicates that information on parental survival is collected in order to determine maternal or paternal orphanhood, and estimation of adult mortality.
In 2011, the stats for paternal orphans were at 12.1% while in 2022 they were at 8.9%, maternal orphans stood at 3.0% in 2011 and in 2022 they were at 2.3%. Double orphans were at 3.9% in 2011 and they decreased to 2.5% in 2022. In 2011, non orphans were at 81.0% and in 2022 the figure stood at 86.2%.
“Comparison of Census 2011 and census 2022 showed that in both censuses, paternal orphanhood was more prevalent compared to maternal and double orphanhood. Trends show that there has been a decrease in orphanhood and this is the case for all the three types,” he said.
Non orphans are children 0-17 aged years whose both biological mother and father were still alive while paternal orphans are children 0-17 aged years whose biological fathers were no longer alive but their mothers were still alive.
Maternal orphans refer to children aged 0-17 years whose biological mothers were no longer alive but their fathers were still alive and double orphans are children aged 0-17 years who reported that both mother and father have died.
“Provincial variations in orphanhood showed that Eastern Cape (15.8%) and KwaZulu-Natal (15.5%) had the highest percentage of paternal orphans in both Censuses 2011 and 2022. In census 2022, Eastern Cape (3.4%), Free State (3.1%), North West (2.9% and Mpumalanga (2.6%) provinces had percentage of double orphans above the national average (2.5%),” Maluleke said.
Agricultural households
Census 2022 shows that 13.8% (2 463 429) of all households are agricultural households compared to 19.9% in 2011 (2 879 590).
Most of the households were involved in agriculture to produce ‘only for own consumption’ (1 988 825 or 80.7%) and ‘mainly for own consumption with some sale’ (189 371 or 7.7%).
Approximately 4.3% or 107 112 of agricultural households were producing ‘only for sale’.
“The major provinces contributing to the decrease are KwaZulu-Natal (-167 726 agricultural households), Eastern Cape (-114 846 agricultural households) and Free State (-65 522 agricultural households).
“Most of the agricultural households were in KwaZulu-Natal (24.9%), Eastern Cape (20.7%) and Limpopo (16.3%) in 2011. In 2022, KwaZulu-Natal (22.3%) still reported the highest percentage of agricultural households.
“However, Limpopo (21.1%) overtook Eastern Cape (19.6%). Northern Cape and Western Cape reported the lowest percentage of agricultural households in both 2011 and 2022,” Maluleke said.
The trends in percentage contribution by various population groups to total agricultural households remained largely the same in the two years.
Black African households (91.4% in 2011 and 90.8% in 2022) constituted the largest percentage of agricultural households, followed by white households (5.2% in both 2011 and 2022) in both years.
“Livestock and poultry production was the leading agricultural activity, reported in 959 365 (38.9%) households, followed by fruit or vegetable production (661 613 or 26,9%) and grains, food crops and industrial crops (650 096 or 26.4%).
“Eastern Cape (247 902 or 25.8%) and KwaZulu-Natal (247 043 or 25.8%) reported the highest number of households involved in livestock and poultry production. The leading provinces in the production of grains, food crops and industrial crops were Limpopo (250 463 or 38.5%) and KwaZulu-Natal (126 727 or 19.5%),” he said.
The main place used for household agricultural activity in 2022 was backyard (2 196 736 or 89.2%), followed by farm land (131 105 or 5.3%)
‘Other’, which includes schools and other public spaces, was reported by 51 007 households, and constituted the least reported place of agricultural activity.
“With the exception of chickens, Eastern Cape reported the highest numbers in all types of livestock ownership. Nationally, chickens (38.2 million) were the most numerous type of livestock kept at household level, followed by sheep (17.7 million) and cattle (12.3 million).
“The black African and white population groups were the most dominant in livestock and chicken farming. The highest number of cattle (7.7 million) and sheep (12.5 million) were reported in white-headed households, whereas most chickens (19.0 million), goats (4.9 million) and pigs (1.1 million) were reported in black African households,” Maluleke said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 10:55
SARS, law enforcement agencies break coal syndicates
A massive inter-governmental search and seizure operation across five provinces was carried out on Thursday to break the back of a sophisticated criminal syndicate of alleged coal-smugglers, who played a major role in exacerbating the energy crisis and loadshedding.
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) was the lead agency in yesterday’s search and seizure operation because information became available regarding a host of tax crimes allegedly committed by members of the coal-smuggling syndicate.
“This success of today’s (Thursday) operation is due to exceptional inter-governmental co-operation and information-sharing under the auspices of the NATJOINTS Energy Safety & Security Priority Committee tasked with unmasking and bringing to book the criminals that have caused economic hardship and personal hardship to all citizens of the country,” said the South African Revenue Services in a statement.
“It is due to such hard work, often behind the scenes, that leads to these investigative breakthroughs and ensures that South Africans can return to a lifestyle without loadshedding. These targeted operations also help to prevent the loss of revenue to the fiscus, which in this case amounted to more than R500-million,” SARS said.
According to SARS, the alleged coal-smugglers and their related entities are active and have a presence in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State and Limpopo.
The suspects targeted yesterday include former Eskom employees who facilitated procurement fraud, as well as other individuals involved in the diversion of high-grade coal.
SARS managed to establish links between individuals and related entities and confirmed possible gross contraventions from a tax perspective in terms:
The sophisticated network of coal-smugglers is suspected to consist of local and foreign nationals. Coal trucks destined for power stations are diverted to designated coal yards where high-grade coal is replaced with low-grade or sub-standard product.
The high-grade coal is then exported or sold to willing buyers. The low-grade coal is often blended with scrap or other materials and then delivered to power stations.
The low-grade coal damages the infrastructure at the Eskom power stations, which is a major factor in crippling the power utility’s ability to generate electricity for the South African grid.
SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter commended the country’s law enforcement agencies for this massive breakthrough in ongoing investigations.
“It is because of such naked greed that the country has experienced unprecedented loadshedding, which harms business, undermines foreign direct investment and leads to job losses – all of which negatively affect revenue collection,” he said.
“All law enforcement agencies must continue their aggressive fight against criminality, each according to its mandate. For its part, SARS will continue to pursue taxpayers involved in intentional and wilful non-compliance – without fear, favour or prejudice,” Kieswetter said.
SARS is encouraged that the message is clear and unequivocal to all those involved in organised crime – you will be hunted down and brought to book. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 11:34
92.1% of SA population owns a cellphone
South Africa's Census 2022 national results has shown an upward trend in ownership of refrigerators, televisions and cellphones.
“The overwhelming majority (92.1%) of households in the country owned a cellphone in working order, a notable increase from the 3.3% in 2001. Just under four-fifths (79%) of households owned televisions compared to the 52.6% in 2001,” Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke said.
Furthermore, the data from Census 2022, which he handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday in Pretoria, shows that the ownership of a refrigerators/freezers increased from 53.8% in 2001 to 83.2% in 2022.
“In contrast, households owning a radio decreased significantly from 73% in 2001 to 50.3% in 2022. In addition, there is a downward trend in households that owned a landline telephone over the period 2001–2022,” Maluleke said.
Households residing in formal dwellings
The report noted that there has been an upward trend in households residing in formal dwellings - an increase of almost 24 percentage points (from 65.1% in 1996 to 88.5% in Census 2022).
Formal dwellings include formal houses with a brick/concrete structure, flats and apartments, cluster houses, townhouses, semi-detached houses or any formal dwelling situated in a backyard, such as a room or garden cottage where a household or single person resides.
“The proportion of households that resided in informal dwellings halved (from 16.2% in 1996 to 8.1% in 2022). In 2022, just over two-fifths (41.6%) of the dwellings that households resided in were owned and fully paid off, with similar proportions recorded in 2001 and 2011.
“The proportion of households that occupied their dwellings rent-free increased from 18.6% in 2011 to 25.6% in 2022, while rented dwellings decreased slightly from 25% in 2011 to 23.2% in 2022. Only 6.6% of households resided in dwellings that were owned but not fully paid off (for example, those still repaying a bond to the bank), declining from 11.8% in 2011,” he said.
Households were asked whether the dwelling they resided in was a government-subsidised dwelling or RDP.
“Two-fifths (40%) of households in the Northern Cape reported that they resided in government subsidised dwelling/RDP housing, only slightly higher than the proportion of households in the Free State (37.6%). Households in Limpopo recorded the lowest proportion of government subsidised dwelling/RDP housing (18.3%), well below the national average of 29.9%,” Maluleke said.
Access to internet
Generally, there has been an upward trend in access to internet services over the period 2011–2022.
Maluleke attributed this to rapid advancement in communication services, such as cellphone ownership.
“Overall, households with no access to internet decreased threefold (from 64.8% in 2011 to 21.1% in 2022). A substantial percentage of households reported accessing internet mainly through a cellphone or other mobile device (60.5%) compared to 16.3% recorded in 2011.
“There was an increase in the percentage of households accessing internet mainly at home, from 8.6% in 2011 to 13.3% in 2022. It is also noted that households accessing internet mainly using other methods decreased significantly. Households accessing internet mainly at work decreased by four percentage points (from 4.7% in 2011 to 0.3% in 2022),” he said.
Migration
The Census 2022 shows that there has been an increase in the number of the population born outside South Africa.
“The results indicate that there were more male immigrants compared to females. Furthermore, the prevalent ages of migrants were between ages 20 and 44 years, suggesting that young adults are more likely to migrate than children and the elderly.
“In Census 2011, males aged 25–29 reported the highest number of immigrants with 260 885, whilst in 2022 male immigrants aged 30–34 (235 297) numbered the highest.
“The top five sending countries remained the same between the two censuses (Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Lesotho, Malawi, and the United Kingdom). India also maintained the 2011 rank in 2022. Namibia, Eswatini, Somalia, Portugal and Germany went down the rank in 2022,” Maluleke said.
Countries that moved up the rank were: Ethiopia, Nigeria, Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Bangladesh, Botswana, and Pakistan.
China is the only country that moved out of the top 20 sending countries in 2022. Whereas Ghana is the new entry into the top 20 sending countries in 2022. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 10/12/2023 - 14:17
Charges against three of the 12 accused have been withdrawn
The Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development concluded the last leg of nationwide public hearings on the Preservation and Development of Agricultural Land (PDAL) Bill in Parliament yesterday.
The committee facilitated the final hearings to give stakeholders and individuals who had expressed their wish to clarify their written submissions an opportunity to do so. Stakeholders taking up this opportunity included the Minerals Council South Africa, Agri SA, the KwaZulu-Natal Agricultural Union, the Agricultural Business Chamber, the Black Agricultural Commodities Federation, Inyanda National Land Movement and the Rural Women's Assembly (RWA) of South Africa.
The Mineral Council of South Africa, a voluntary membership founded in 1889 representing mining companies producing about 90% of South Africa's mineral production, submitted that it vehemently opposes mining through restrictions and imposing additional authorisations for mining on agricultural land. The council pointed out that the Bill obliges municipalities to designate all land as agricultural land, except land specifically excluded under the Bill. The committee was told that this approach is flawed, as it appears to intrude on the municipal competence with respect to municipal planning.
The council further stated that the Bill does not recognise the crucial role mining plays in job creation, export earnings and infrastructure development. In addition, the absence of exemption for mining and of defined processes for how competing mining interests will be accommodated leaves the mining industry at mercy of the Minister of Agriculture.
The Inyanda National Land Movement and the RWA, which includes black smallholder crop and livestock owners in several of provinces, including the Eastern, Western and Northern Cape, Limpopo and the Free State, welcomed that the PDAL Bill recognises, “it is in the national interest to preserve and promote the sustainable development of agricultural land for the production of food and other agricultural products for the primary purpose of sustaining and enhancing human life for the benefit of present and future generations.”
However, they had some concerns that they hope the committee will consider when taking the Bill forward. One concern is the requirement that smallholder and “emerging” producers have “adequate buffer to cater for risks related to climate variability”, which they say is exclusionary and ignores the reality of black producers, who continue to be allocated less productive land, as the best agricultural land was taken by colonial settlers.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela, thanked all the stakeholders who took the time to present their views to the committee. He said their inputs will be considered when the committee finalises its report for submission in the National Assembly.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
At this year’s Eskom Expo International Science Fair, young scientists have reaped the benefits of their hard work and ingenuity, receiving full- and partial bursaries, cash prizes, laptops, tablet computers, and opportunities for work-based exposure during their school holidays. The fair was held at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Boksburg from …
Vaal Central Water pledges full support to board of directors
Vaal Central Water Board has pledged its full support to its newly appointed Board of Directors.
The newly appointed 12-member board, effective from 01 October 2023, was spearheaded by Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, following a rigorous selection process.
The Vaal-Central Water Board used to be previously known as Bloem Water.
Welcoming the new board members, the entity said it will include esteemed individuals, and carries with it an amalgamation of vast experience from both the public and private sector.
“Their diverse backgrounds, insights, and expertise will prove instrumental in driving the Board's vision forward. In ensuring that the board not only aligns with the entity’s values and goals but also resonates with the unique needs of the Northern Cape and the Free State; both Provinces are represented,” the entity said in a statement.
The newly appointed members of the board include Makhosini Solomon Msibi (Chairperson); Lungile Right Bomela (Deputy Chairperson); Luvuyo Xola Ntoyi; Elizabeth Cornelia Rockman; Ntikila Sandlana; Andrew Modisaotsile Rantho; Desmond Solomon Ezekiel Fransman; Matshego Gail Mercy Jele; Boipelo Felicity Nakedi; Advocate Tshepiso Doreen Segoe-Backward; Thabo Moses Manyoni; and Gugulethu Wendy Phakathi.
“In the spirit of continuity and retaining institutional memory, it is noteworthy to mention that the 12-member Board has 4 members who served in the previous Board. This is another defining moment for Vaal Central Water Board following the announcement and gazette of the new name of the Water Board by the Minister transitioning from “Bloem Water” to “Vaal Central Water Board” on 14 July 2023,” the entity said.
Swift plans to deal with water service challenges
Meanwhile, Mchunu has urged the incoming board to be agile in putting plans in place to deal with water service challenges affecting both provinces, including areas that were previously un-serviced.
Mchunu, recently met with the old and new boards of the entity to lead a process of handover from the old to the new board, and also inducted the new board on their role, responsibilities, and functions in the new entity, in order for the new board to hit the ground running.
“The idea behind the reconfiguration of Water Boards is to ensure that water boards increase access to un-serviced areas, enhance market capitalisation for infrastructure projects, and reduce skewed supply of water,” Mchunu said.
Mchunu commended the outgoing board members of the Vaal-Central Water for the smooth transition process from Bloem Water, and welcomed the incoming board. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 10:19
SAWS warns of heatwave conditions
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of heatwave conditions resulting in persistently high temperatures from Wednesday until Friday.
These conditions are expected over the eastern parts of both the North-West and Free State, southern parts of Gauteng as well as Alfred Nzo and OR Tambo District Municipality of the Eastern Cape from 04-06/10/2023.
“Under these conditions a prolonged exposure to the midday sun poses health risks, hence it’s advisable to seek shades and keep hydrated. Extremely high fire danger conditions are expected over Northern Cape, western and northern parts of North-West, Western Bushveld of Limpopo, Amajuba Local Municipality of KwaZulu-Natal as well as Joe Gqabi District Municipality and Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality of Eastern Cape,” SAWS said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 10/04/2023 - 09:43