MyZA

News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff

You are here: Home / Archives for Investing

Investing

Eighty-five vehicles to boost KZN crime-fighting initiatives

Location: News

Eighty-five vehicles to boost KZN crime-fighting initiatives

A crime-fighting initiative aimed at curbing the rise of criminal activities and promoting public safety across KwaZulu-Natal has been launched.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube handed over essential tools of trade to the value of R30 million to various voluntary community crime fighting structures in the province on Friday.

Among the equipment handed over were 85 vehicles.

Dube-Ncube said the vehicles will play a pivotal role in accelerating the fight against crime by enhancing the mobility, response times, and operational capabilities of the dedicated individuals working tirelessly to keep the communities safe.

“By equipping these voluntary community crime-fighting structures with the necessary resources, the government is empowering local initiatives and fostering a collaborative approach to addressing crime. 

“This proactive strategy reflects a commitment to grassroots solutions and community-led interventions, which are vital components of any comprehensive crime prevention strategy,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier said this when she announced the initiatives during an event at Hoy Park in Durban on Friday, accompanied by Transport, Community Safety and Liaison MEC, Sipho Hlomuka.

She said the initiative marked a significant milestone in government's commitment to enhancing public safety and security in the region. 

The other crime-fighting initiatives aimed at curbing criminal activities and promoting public safety across the province include:

• Strengthening the capacity of Community Policing Forums to engage with communities, gather intelligence and collaborate with law enforcement agencies to prevent and combat crime at the grassroots level;
• Supporting and expanding the network of neighbourhood watch programs to enhance surveillance, deterrence and early detection of criminal activities within residential areas;
• Investing in programs that provide skills development, education, and employment opportunities for young people to steer them away from crime and delinquency;
• Facilitating partnerships between government agencies, non-profit organisations, businesses, and community groups to implement holistic crime prevention strategies tailored to the unique needs of different communities; and
• Harnessing the power of technology and innovation to improve crime detection, response, and data-driven decision-making processes within law enforcement agencies and community organisations.

Dube-Ncube reiterated the importance of the collective efforts of government, including law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and concerned citizens in the fight against crime. 

“By working together and investing in proactive measures, KwaZulu-Natal is taking decisive steps towards creating safer and more secure communities for all residents. This commitment to empowering community-driven crime-fighting initiatives is not merely a one-time event but a sustained effort to build resilience, foster collaboration, and ultimately, make KZN a safer place for everyone,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Mon, 04/08/2024 - 14:19

433 views
Read moreEighty-five vehicles to boost KZN crime-fighting initiatives

Elevating Business Security: Essential Products to Safeguard Your Assets

Location: MyPR

In an era where security threats are increasingly sophisticated, businesses must employ robust measures to protect their assets, data, and personnel. Among these measures, physical security products play a crucial role in fortifying business premises against unauthorized access and potential breaches. In this blog, we’ll delve into seven essential business security products that every enterprise …

Read moreElevating Business Security: Essential Products to Safeguard Your Assets

NCC investigates virtual pig farming enterprise

Location: News

NCC investigates virtual pig farming enterprise

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) is investigating the affairs of Piggy Farm Trading, an entity that promotes and sells “virtual pigs".

This was after the Commission received complaints that Piggy Trading Farm might be a multiplication scheme.

Promoted on its website and various social media platforms, Piggy Farm Trading provides potential buyers with two options, buying from the farm and virtual buying and owning.

The second option is processed through what is called digital Metaverse Farming. The entity claims that this option is ‘risk-free’, as they farm on behalf of the participants. This includes feeding, insurance of the pigs, vaccination, and regular cleaning of pigs.

According to Piggy Farm Trading, participants can purchase between one and 50 pigs per  annum at R2 200 per pig. Each pig gives its owner a minimum of R500 per month over a year as profit.

The Consumer Protection Act (CPA) describes a multiplication scheme as a scheme that promises or guarantees participants an effective annual interest rate, as calculated in the prescribed manner that is at least 20% above the repo rate.

The Commission has warned consumers to exercise caution when dealing with this entity.

“Consumers must be honest with their dealings, as the CPA prohibits any participation, recruitment, joining or promoting a multiplication scheme and other schemes.

“The NCC has noticed a spike in agricultural schemes like this one, which lure participants into joining the scheme and promise high returns. If a consumer buys livestock, they should be able to take possession of that livestock,” said the NCC’s Acting Commissioner.

The latest trends of pyramid schemes, multiplication schemes, and chain letters indicate that the owners have designed these schemes to buy into the idea of “investing” while they (consumers) are participating in prohibited conduct. Consumers are reminded of the dangers of joining, promoting and recruiting others into such schemes. These schemes always collapse and leave consumers out of pocket. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 04/07/2024 - 13:06

518 views
Read moreNCC investigates virtual pig farming enterprise

Rugby’s Pathway to Africa’s Future

Location: Sport
Rugby Africa

By President of Rugby Africa, Herbert Mensah (www.RugbyAfrique.com).

Saturday April 6 marks International Day of Sport for Development and Peace. As we reflect on this day, it is crucial to explore the potential impact of sport in Africa. The African Development Bank projects that Africa is set to grow to 2.4 billion people by 2050. Therefore, prioritizing an investment in human potential is crucial, as it will define the future of the continent. Africa can harness the power of sport to champion human potential, serving as a tool to drive the African continent towards greatness for generations to come.

Sport serves as a universal language, through popularity it can transcend cultural, social, economic and political barriers. This year's theme: ‘Sport for the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies' holds particular relevance in Africa. The impact of sport has the power to unite individuals, bringing joy to participants and spectators alike. Yet the true power of sport, lies in its ability to transform societies. South Africa's Springboks, fourth time Rugby World Champions, are a testament of the unifying influence of Rugby. During the 2023 Rugby World Cup, the entire African continent united in support of South Africa on the global stage, highlighting a collective passion to celebrate and develop talent emerging from the continent itself. Whether on the field or pitch, the power of sports is visible. It fuels economic development through the flourishing sports tourism industry. It empowers youth by instilling positive values. It champions gender equality, breaking down barriers and eradicating stigma. It fosters social inclusion, promoting tolerance and easing tensions in divisive environments.

The African Development Bank reports that Africa will remain the world youngest region, with a median age of 25. An investment in the youth is crucial for the sustainability of Africa, as a prosperous Africa paves the way to peace. Within the realm of sports, Rugby emerges as unique pathway to empower the youth. Anchored in values of teamwork, unity, integrity, passion, solidarity and discipline, Rugby serves as cornerstones for personal and professional development with enduring impact. Ultimately, early exposure to sports will prepare the youth of Africa to become leaders and ambassadors of positive change in their communities. It is our duty to equip the next generation to not only navigate the challenges of uncertainty and competitiveness but to thrive amidst them, fostering a brighter future for Africa and inspire generations to come.

In a society marked by divisions, sport cultivates an inclusive landscape. The passion for the games takes priority, differences are not seen as obstacles, but rather as opportunities for greatness. Rugby's embrace of diversity, turning differences into strengths has the powerful impact of breaking down the societal norms that women are often subjected to. For example, the South African women's national rugby team, where players exhibit a remarkable 33 cm height differential from the shortest to the tallest player, and a significant 61 kg weight gap separates the lightest from the heaviest members. When compared to the realm of football, the contrast becomes even starker. The South African women's national football team boasts a considerably more consistent size and shape among its players, with a mere 12 cm height range and a modest 27 kg weight variance. This inclusivity cultivates a sense of unity and belonging that transcends borders and celebrates the diversity of humans, nurturing a sense of self-worth, fostering long term empowerment, while creating lifelong friendships.

Beyond social impact, sport can function as a powerful catalyst for economic growth and international dialogue. Through strategic investments in sports infrastructure and competition frameworks, we forge the way for economic opportunities, generating employment and awakening local economies in host nations. Sports tourism emerges as a magnet, drawing travellers from around the globe with the economic purchasing power to experience Africa's diverse and rich cultural heritage. It acts as a unifying force, fostering connections among people of different backgrounds and nationalities. As enthusiasm for sports grows, it not only attracts local spectators but ultimately attracting attention on regional and national stages. This shared love for sports becomes a platform for cultural exchange, promoting understanding and appreciation for diverse perspectives. In this way, sport serves as more than entertainment; it is bridge that connects people and creates ties to the community, fostering unity and collaboration.

Aligning with the pursuit of the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals, Africa has the opportunity to tap into the transformative power of sports, acting as a key to unlock the full potential of the continent. This can only be achieved if governments take local action and assume accountability to harness the full potential of Rugby in reducing inequality, empowering the next generation and igniting a new age of inclusivity. We must collectively drive change, recognizing that investing in Africa's future is our shared responsibility. This calls for collaboration among all stakeholders, with a long-term commitment to funding, policy development, infrastructure enhancement and the advancement of competition structures. On this International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, let us not only embrace the power of sports to reshape our societies but let us actively engage on unleashing it. Sport possesses the remarkable ability to positively impact our world, a source of hope, uniting people in ways that few other forces can achieve.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.

Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com

About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women's rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 39 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.

Media files
Rugby Africa
Download logo
Read moreRugby’s Pathway to Africa’s Future

Here’s how companies can support their employees’ mental wellbeing

Location: MyPR

South Africa’s workplaces are battling a silent mental health crisis and, according to Sapien Labs’ fourth annual Mental State of the World Report, South Africa has among the world’s worst mental wellbeing levels, ranking 69 out of 71 countries and with little improvement post the Covid-19 pandemic. Businesses have a critical role to play in …

Read moreHere’s how companies can support their employees’ mental wellbeing

Pension funds and emigration: Tax could be the make-or-break factor

Location: MyPR

Investing in an offshore retirement fund is one way of growing your wealth in a stable economy over the longer term, or even gaining residency in a foreign country. However, for South Africans, this scenario presents as many challenges as it does opportunities, and should only be considered after consulting with a financial adviser and …

Read morePension funds and emigration: Tax could be the make-or-break factor

From Financial Struggle to Financial Success – A Roadmap for Business Leaders

Location: MyPR

Money might make the world go round, but it also keeps entrepreneurs up at night. It seems as if there is never enough to realize all those big business dreams.  But solid planning and a finance team that knows what they’re doing will see financial struggles turn into success. The finance function as a whole …

Read moreFrom Financial Struggle to Financial Success – A Roadmap for Business Leaders

Investing in the future of farming

Location: MyPR

Agriculture in South Africa is growing. The primary agricultural sector has increased by an average of 7.5% per year since 2008, outpacing the total economy, which grew by 6.6% on average per year over the same period. Despite its relatively small share of the total GDP, primary agriculture is a significant provider of employment, and …

Read moreInvesting in the future of farming

Optimizing Foot Health: Strategies to Prevent Callus Recurrence

Location: MyPR

Dealing with recurring calluses can be incredibly frustrating. Despite our best efforts to treat them, they seem to come back time and time again, causing discomfort and hindering our daily activities. However, there is hope. By understanding the root causes of callus recurrence and implementing preventive measures, we can maintain optimal foot health and say …

Read moreOptimizing Foot Health: Strategies to Prevent Callus Recurrence

Minister conducts site inspection at Lighthouse Precinct project

Location: News

Minister conducts site inspection at Lighthouse Precinct project

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille visited the Lighthouse Precinct project in the Cape Agulhas National Park on Tuesday to inspect progress on site and to impress on all stakeholders the importance of working together to grow the country’s tourism offerings. 

The project is one of many being implemented by the Department of Tourism across the country as part of the Tourism Sector Master Plan’s objectives to stimulate demand by investing in new and maintaining existing tourism infrastructure and attractions.

The Lighthouse Precinct Project in the Agulhas National Park in the Western Cape is a R54.9 million investment by the department into the area to ensure that the site remains attractive to visitors and supports tourism development in the surrounding communities.

The project is being implemented together with the SANParks and overall progress on site is now at 73% and it is anticipated that it will be completed in June this year.

The park is located in the Southern Overberg region of the Western Cape and stretches along the coastal plain between the towns of Gansbaai and Struisbaai and includes the southern-most tip of Africa.

“Investment in infrastructure by government shows the private sector that we are serious about growing our tourism offering and by government investing, we are creating the conditions conducive for further investment by the private sector.

“As a top tourist destination, we remain committed to constantly diversifying and growing our tourism offering so that we remain an attractive destination that keeps visitors coming back,” de Lille said after the visit, along with the Mayor of the Cape Agulhas Municipality, Paul Swart, the Deputy Mayor of the Overberg District Municipality, Helen Coetzee and other councilors from the region.

The project was funded in two phases. Phase 1 was completed in 2018. Phase 2 is currently under construction and includes:

• Construction of a restaurant

• Interpretation centre (including vendor stalls, ablution facilities, curio shops, booking office and lecture theatre)

• Construction of reception area/offices

• External works and bulk infrastructure

The project also has a significant socio-economic benefits as so far the project has employed 77 people including 48 youth, 50 women and two persons with disabilities during construction.

Eight sub-contractors from surrounding communities were also employed on the project to do work such as brick and steel work, stone cladding, laying of kerbs and channels.

De Lille said all stakeholders were pleased with the progress of the project and have agreed that they must continue working as partners, the department, SANParks, the Cape Agulhas and the Overberg District Municipalities to ensure that the project continues to benefit the area for many years to come.

“We must work together to ensure its continued success and to ensure that the attraction is properly maintained and looked after so that it can bring economic benefits to tourism and the surrounding communities,” de Lille said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Tue, 03/26/2024 - 14:06

263 views
Read moreMinister conducts site inspection at Lighthouse Precinct project

Emphasis placed on investing in climate-resilient infrastructure projects

Location: News

Emphasis placed on investing in climate-resilient infrastructure projects

While South Africa has taken meaningful steps to invest in infrastructure projects, Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr David Masondo, says the fiscus cannot afford to financially support the amount of investment required for climate-resilient infrastructure.

“We therefore need to discuss other innovative financing mechanisms such as green bonds and carbon credit to fund these climate-resilient infrastructure projects,” Masondo said on Monday in Johannesburg.

He made these remarks during the second in a series of Southern Africa – Towards Inclusive Economic Development (SA-TIED) policy dialogues entitled “Financing infrastructure development in the context of climate change”.

“In South Africa, we feel the negative impact of climate change in important sectors such as agriculture, water, and energy. The frequency of natural disasters and the results thereof are felt every day in our country.

“Investments in renewable energy sources, water conservation systems, and sustainable urban development are key to mitigating and adapting to climate impacts,” the Deputy Minister said.

Masondo said the Infrastructure Fund is a testament to South Africa’s commitment to stimulating infrastructure investment and blending public and private financing to build a better, more sustainable future.

“The Infrastructure Fund stands out as a pivotal move, designed to stimulate investment across various critical sectors. This approach seeks to mobilise public and private resources, mitigate risks for private investors and foster an environment where collaborative financing models can thrive.

“Such measures are part of a broader effort to ensure that infrastructure development not only supports South Africa's immediate economic needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term resilience and progress.

“Yes, challenges exist such as securing funding. However, ensuring sustainability, and integrating the latest technologies are other additional challenges. These challenges should be treated as opportunities for innovation and forging robust public-private partnerships. This is also an opportunity for leveraging the power of technology in our infrastructure development goals,” Masondo said.

He said the groundbreaking research produced by the SA-TIED program has shed light on critical areas like water, and energy, and the broader connections between them.

“It is this type of research that directly shapes our infrastructure strategies, informing decisions to maximise impact and create the conditions for sustainable growth. The research informs our policy decision-making. It is this type of research that directly shapes our infrastructure strategies, informing decisions to maximize impact and create the conditions for sustainable growth,” the Deputy Minister said.

He said infrastructure development is the cornerstone of any thriving economy.

“Infrastructure fuels productivity (e.g. people arrive late to work because public transport is poor). Infrastructure also enhances the quality of life for our citizens (clean air, and clean water are important for our health) and lays the foundation for long-term growth.

“Our government recognises this. We have made significant investments in critical infrastructure. These investments are not just about roads and bridges. They are also about creating jobs, reducing poverty, and making South Africa a competitive player in the global economy,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

nosihle
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 09:36

611 views
Read moreEmphasis placed on investing in climate-resilient infrastructure projects

Zikalala hosts Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium

Location: News

Zikalala hosts Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala will host the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium South Africa (SIDSSA) 2024 between 17 and 19 March 2024 in Century City, Cape Town.

SIDSSA is a pioneering event aimed at bringing together key stakeholders, experts and decision-makers in the field of infrastructure development. 

President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address at the symposium on Tuesday, 19 March, while Deputy President Paul Mashatile will deliver an address at the stakeholder dinner on Monday.  

Various Ministers and Deputy Ministers will anchor panel discussions and technical discussions throughout the symposium. 

“The symposium serves as a platform to explore partnerships between the public and private sectors, as well as pivot investment opportunities in infrastructure in South Africa. Additionally, the symposium is intended to shape the conversations about regulatory and policy reforms, innovative funding models for infrastructure, and investing in infrastructure for a shared prosperity for all,’’ the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure said.

This year, the symposium will feature the following milestones:
 
•    Launch of the construction book: A repository of infrastructure projects going into procurement/construction in the 2024/2025 financial year.
•    Leaders forum: A gathering of South African Ministers with other Ministers invited from the continent.
•    Top 12 infrastructure project priorities: These projects will receive project preparation funding from Infrastructure South Africa.
•    Signing of MOUs with important partners and stakeholders.

The symposium will also provide the following updates:
•    Update on the gazetted Strategic Integrated Projects.
•    Update on the projects already receiving project preparation support.
•    Infrastructure Fund Project Pipeline.

- SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Sun, 03/17/2024 - 11:11

502 views
Read moreZikalala hosts Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium

South African President to Open Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium of South Africa (SIDSSA) 2024, Featuring Strong Slate of Ministers

Location: News

Energy Capital & Power
Download logo

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver a keynote and open the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium of South Africa (SIDSSA) 2024, taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center in Cape Town. Poised to showcase updates and announcements on new international partnerships and joint ventures in South Africa, SIDSSA 2024 is set to gazette opportunities for investing in infrastructure for stakeholders in the region.

The symposium will feature the participation of South Africa's Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who is expected to showcase the country's long-term plan for driving public and private sector-led infrastructure development while reaffirming the President's stated goal of reaching 5.5% year-on-year economic growth. The Deputy President will deliver a keynote during the SIDSSA 2024 stakeholder dinner.

Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center in Cape Town, the SIDSSA will bring together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic recovery through strategic infrastructure plans. For more information, visit https://SIDSSA.org.za/.

This year, the symposium will be held under the leadership of South Africa's Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala, who is expected to address regulatory and policy reforms, explore innovative funding models, showcase the strength of the emerging 2024/2025 pipeline and highlight opportunities for investing in infrastructure in the country. Minister Zikalala will be accompanied by the department's Deputy Minister Bernice Swartz.

Supporting some of South Africa's largest infrastructure projects, including the $34 million Musina Ring Road project and the transformation of the N3 highway into a Smart Freight Corridor, the symposium will feature the participation of the country's Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga and the department's Deputy Minister Lisa Mangcu. Set to facilitate greater economic activity between South Africa and neighboring countries and positioning the country as a freight and logistics hub for Africa, respectively, the Musina Ring Road and N3 highway projects are poised to drive connectivity and cultivate collaboration throughout the region.

Meanwhile, the participation of South Africa's Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Thembi Nkadimeng promises to showcase and gazette investment opportunities in the country's infrastructure projects for the benefit of all stakeholders. Further bolstering confidence in South Africa's ability to fuel investment in its key sectors, the country's Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille and Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Technologies add to the symposium's impressive roster of speakers from the South African Cabinet while facilitating synergy between the objectives of the country's Sustainable Development Plan.

In addition to members from South Africa's Cabinet, SIDSSA 2024 will also feature a strong line-up of international ministers, including Namibia's Minister of Works and Transport John Mutorwa, who is expected to showcase investment opportunities in the country's sustainable mobility systems. Meanwhile, with second phase of the Lesotho Highlands Water project currently underway, the participation of Lesotho's Minister of Home Affairs Lebone Lephema adds to the symposium's theme of inclusive growth in the southern African region.

In alignment with the event's promise to contribute to the accelerated delivery of infrastructure throughout Africa, key infrastructure initiatives in some of Africa's most promising investment destinations will be showcased by Senegal's Minister of Infrastructure, Land Transport and Opening-Up Amadou Mansour Faye and Algeria's Minister of Public Works and Basic Infrastructure Lakhdar Rakhroukh. Additionally, Swaziland's Minister of Work and Transport Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe rounds off the southern African region's esteemed host of ministerial delegates.

Serving as the launchpad for major energy project's in South Africa's 2024/2025 pipeline, SIDSSA 2024 will also feature the attendance of South Africa's Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong. The Deputy Minister's participation works in alignment with the event's promise to showcase South Africa's pipeline of 12 infrastructure projects due to start development in 2024/2025.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

About SIDSSA 2024:
SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers and Energy Capital & Power. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event.

Read moreSouth African President to Open Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium of South Africa (SIDSSA) 2024, Featuring Strong Slate of Ministers

Concern over learner dropouts and repetition

Location: News

Concern over learner dropouts and repetition

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed concern over the persistently high rates of learner dropouts and repetition urging stakeholders within the education sector to intensify their efforts in tackling these issues.

The President addressed the opening of the 2024 Basic Education Sector Lekgotla Conference taking place at the Birchwood Conference Centre in Boksburg on Thursday.

Taking place under the theme "Equipping learners with knowledge and skills for a changing world," the 2024 Basic Education Sector Lekgotla aims to deepen the understanding of advancements made within the sector with a special focus on developments achieved over the last decade.

“With a sense of achievement, we report our progress towards universal access to basic education, which currently stands at an impressive 98 %.

“However, dropout and repetition rates are still unacceptably high. I have spoken about this to you all in the past and I have urged all of us to work hard to reduce the dropout rates as well as to attend to the repetition rates,” the President said in his virtual address. 

The President highlighted that poverty, youth criminality, teenage pregnancy, and general violence in some communities as some of the reasons for these high rates.

He added that the burden placed on young people to look after their aged parents and grandparents was also contributing to learner dropout and repetition.

The President told the Lekgotla that government is actively pursuing policies to try to address the obstacles hindering progress in basic education. 

“As the Government, we have continued to pursue pro-poor policies to systematically tackle the multifaceted factors impeding progress in basic education. These policies encompass the establishment of non-fee-paying schools; indeed, 80% of schools in our country do not require fees. 

“Moreover, more than 9.6 million children benefit from the national school nutrition programme, free textbooks, scholar transport, and child support grants provided by the Department of Social Development.”

President Ramaphosa commended numerous efforts aimed at offering educational assistance in areas with the highest need.

He said these concerted efforts signify government’s commitment to enhancing the educational landscape of South Africa, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed, irrespective of their background.

“By addressing these challenges head-on, we reaffirm our dedication to fulfilling Mandela’s vision of education as the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world. 

“We aim to prepare every child in our country for success in a rapidly evolving global context.

“Our commitment is demonstrated through the Three-Stream Curriculum Model, which incorporates technical, vocational and occupational subjects into basic education. This aligns with the nation’s skill requirements and economic objectives, moving beyond traditional academic subjects to expand learners’ prospects,” he said. 

The President highlighted that in the coming year, government is poised to expand the occupational stream into the Further Education and Training Phase. He said this expansion is a testament to government’s resolve to ensure that no learner is left behind.

Early Childhood Development

He further emphasised that Early Childhood Development (ECD) is a key priority for government.

Consequently, government has developed the 2030 Strategy for Early Childhood Development Programmes. The strategy outlines a comprehensive plan to achieve universal access to quality ECD programmes by 2030.

“To ensure that we reach universal access to ECD programmes for children aged 3-5, we will need to provide quality access to an additional 830,000 children. This is over and above the 2.2 million children in this age group who are already accessing ECD programmes.

“We can agree that the essence of a quality education system lies in the professionalism and quality of teachers, who are fundamental at the school level. They are crucial for developing the skills, knowledge and competencies our country needs for faster economic growth,” he said. 

Investing in teachers

Last week, South Africa hosted the 14th International Teacher Task Force Policy Dialogue Forum which emphasised the need for qualified teachers to achieve sustainable development goals and support the Africa Agenda 2063. 

The forum concluded that global investment in teachers is essential to ensuring their competence, professionalism and support.

“We will do everything possible to continue supporting our teachers, who are the combatants for the silent revolution happening in basic education.”

Mother tongue instruction

Turning his attention to the importance of mother tongue instruction, he said it is the cornerstone of the “essential reforms we undertake in basic education and speaks to the broader imperative of decolonising education.”

The President said this goes beyond merely ensuring that children can read with comprehension and that it is a vital component of government’s commitment to educational transformation.

He further expressed his deep support for this development, acknowledging its significance in the journey towards basic education reforms. 

He said the country’s history reminds one of the profound impact of language as a tool of subjugation and oppression.

In recognising this, the country’s commitment to decolonisation and transformation becomes even more urgent, ensuring that language is a bridge to knowledge and empowerment rather than a barrier. 

The President further highlighted that today, all national African Union Agenda 2063 frameworks and international organisations such as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) endorse the implementation of mother tongue instruction as a pivotal strategy for addressing literacy challenges.

“This widespread support recognises the fundamental role of education in one's first language in enhancing learning outcomes and improving literacy rates.

“In conclusion, let us double our efforts to ensure our children stand on equal footing. This means all shall have access to public schools, the assurance of being taught by a qualified teacher, and the provision of ample workbooks, textbooks and stationery.

“It also means having the necessary learning tools, dignified sanitation facilities, clean running water, basic electricity, and a clean, welcoming environment that guarantees safety for both learners and teachers,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Thu, 03/14/2024 - 14:29

165 views
Read moreConcern over learner dropouts and repetition

Mastering the Art of Exterior Waterproofing: TT Waterproofing Shares Best Practices

Location: MyPR

As a seasoned business owner with over 9 years of experience in delivering top-notch roofing and waterproofing solutions, I understand the significance of fortifying your property against the elements. Your property’s first line of defense is its exterior, and mastering the art of exterior waterproofing is paramount to ensure long-lasting protection. In this article, we’ll …

Read moreMastering the Art of Exterior Waterproofing: TT Waterproofing Shares Best Practices

The ‘Legitimising’ of Bitcoin – You could have turned $30 into R40 Million over 14 years

Location: MyPR

Bitcoin has been around for ages – since 9 January 2009 – and, in internet years, that is a very long time. Early adopters used to bring their miners to work and plug them into their computer workstations USB ports to take advantage of the ’employer electricity and broadband’. As the market matured the miners …

Read moreThe ‘Legitimising’ of Bitcoin – You could have turned $30 into R40 Million over 14 years

The Ultimate Relaxation Oasis: Steam Room Saunas in South Africa

Location: MyPR

In the pursuit of relaxation and rejuvenation, steam room saunas have emerged as popular sanctuaries for unwinding and promoting well-being. In South Africa, the allure of steam saunas has captivated individuals seeking a retreat from the stresses of daily life. Let’s delve into the world of steam room saunas in South Africa, exploring their benefits, …

Read moreThe Ultimate Relaxation Oasis: Steam Room Saunas in South Africa