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From OLED TVs to webOS Content, LG Wins the Most Awards in History to Total 33, Including Two Best of Innovation Awards LG Electronics (LG) has been recognised for the technological and design excellence of its latest lifestyle solutions, earning more than 30 CES® 2024 Innovation Awards across Home Appliance, Home Entertainment and B2B categories, …
Dedicating a Special Exhibition Zone to Experimental yet Innovative Products, LG Presents Creative Ideas Tailored to Various Lifestyles LG Electronics (LG) geared up to showcase its latest lineup of innovative and pioneering products at CES 2024, the world’s largest consumer electronics and IT exhibition. LG dedicated a special exhibition space to LG Labs, its marketing …
New Styler Features a Handheld, High-Pressure Steamer, the Dynamic Moving Hanger, and the Dual TrueSteam Technology LG Electronics (LG) unveiled its advanced, new LG Styler clothing care solution at CES 2024. Incorporating a handheld, high-pressure steamer, the Dynamic Moving Hanger™ and Dual TrueSteam™ technology, the latest Styler delivers faster and more effective clothes-refreshing cycles with …
Lead generation, one of the most sought-after skills in marketing, is in demand more as we move into 2024. The buyer’s journey is evolving with greater access to information and options, leading to increased demands for personalised and relevant experiences. This shift makes it tougher for businesses to attract and retain buyer interest and trust. …
2024 UltraGear OLED Gaming Monitor Lineup Introduces Pixel Sound Technology, Delivering Clear, Cinematic Audio That Brings a New Dimension to Gaming LG Electronics (LG) unveiled its latest lineup of UltraGear™ OLED gaming monitors, designed to provide superior gaming experiences. The expanded lineup includes the highly anticipated 32-inch 4K gaming monitor (model 32GS95UE), which boasts a …
Presenting Impressive Image Quality, Access to Entertainment and Productivity Apps via webOS even without having to connect to a PC LG Electronics’ (LG) new lineup of ‘LG MyView’ smart monitors was revealed at CES 2024. Designed for productivity and entertainment, each monitor comes with the acclaimed webOS platform and offers a variety of user-friendly features …
Coming to Earlier LG Smart TV Models, webOS Re:New Program Gives More Users Access to the Elevated Home Entertainment Experience Most Recent Platform Provides LG Electronics (LG) announced that it is offering the latest upgrade* of the webOS smart TV platform to owners of older LG Smart TVs, effectively evolving their smart TV into the …
Company Outlines Direction and “Break Through Limits” Management Policy During Press Conference in Las Vegas LG Electronics’ (LG) CEO William Cho and key company executives introduced the strategies LG is implementing to achieve its ‘Future Vision 2030’ goal, during a press conference held for Korean media in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.A., on January 10. The …
SASSA says the SRD grant has placed a massive burden on the agency and plans to implement new software to help prevent fraud
While last year’s matriculants have ended a journey, it’s just the beginning of a new adventure, said St Martin’s School Headmaster, Warren Venter. He said that hope is the most powerful armour that students must be equipped with. “We face a very uncertain world,” said Venter, “and the underlying fear of joblessness in a country …
Adults spend at least a third of their lives at work. Whether it’s an 8-5 desk job, shift work, or running a business, a big chunk of time and energy goes into work. In a world dominated by technology and ever-increasing pressure, it’s easy to get carried away by workplace demands at the expense of …
Structural reforms remain key for SA economy
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to engaging in structural reforms that will foster an environment fertile to economic growth and competitiveness.
The Minister was speaking during a panel discussion at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting held in Davos, Switzerland.
Godongwana is leading the South African delegation to the critical meeting.
Structural reforms in South Africa are targeted at – among other things – electricity, infrastructure, water and logistics, and are driven by Operation Vulindlela.
Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms and support economic recovery. It aims to modernise and transform network industries, including electricity, water, transport and digital communications.
The objectives of the reforms are aimed at:
“There are a number of things we are doing to deal with structural reforms. One of the perennial problems we’ve had has been on the energy front. Massive structural reforms… are dealing with that question.
“A new challenge has been the logistics sector, where we are investing a lot in it. We have been trying to change the skills composition to the extent that we don’t have and we have provided an environment where we can import skills with ease.
“So there are lot of structural reforms that we have engaged in in order to make sure that we can grow the economy and be competitive,” Godongwana told the panel.
Historical commitment
During the pre-WEF media breakfast briefing held last week, Godongwana emphasised that structural reforms remain crucial.
“Structural reforms remain crucial to revive medium-term growth prospects amid a constrained policy space. We remain steadfast in carrying out structural reforms to support and accelerate economic recovery.
“As government, we remain resolved to deal with the energy and logistics challenges that are adversely impacting our economy,” he said.
In his Medium Term Budget Policy Statement delivered in November last year, Godongwana presented the reforms specifically targeted at Eskom and Transnet.
On Transnet, he said: “Rail underperformance is estimated to have cost up to 5% of GDP in 2022, with losses in the region of R50 billion in the minerals sector alone.
“Given the scale of the challenges, the National Logistics Crisis Committee was instituted to broaden reforms in the sector and prioritise reforms aimed at resolving the immediate crisis, while also addressing the structural aspects hampering the sector.”
On electricity, Godongwana said: “[We] recognise the potential loss of revenue due to private electricity generation, and the fact that traditional revenue models relied on by public entities like Eskom, face serious disruption.
“It is for these reasons that our electricity reforms are holistic, evidenced-based, and geared to find a balanced solution to our electricity supply challenges. They take into account not just a particular entity but the transformation of the sector as a whole.” – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 01/16/2024 - 12:18
In a groundbreaking stride, Brave Generation Academy (BGA) (www.BraveGenerationAcademy.com) is redefining education across Africa with its innovative and personalised approach. Having established a successful presence in four African countries so far, BGA's expansion is gaining momentum as it introduces a transformative model that addresses the shortcomings of conventional education.
BGA's roots run deep in the African market, founded by Tim and Lidia Vieira, entrepreneurs with a profound connection to the continent. Tim, a South African native, initiated his entrepreneurial journey in Africa, creating South Africa's first microbrewery and later establishing one of the largest media groups in Angola. With business ties in Ghana and Mozambique, Tim and Lidia Vieira are intricately woven into the fabric of African enterprise.
Outside of their entrepreneurial roles, the Vieiras also began their family in Angola, with their first two children being born in the country.
He says of the continent, “Today Africa can leapfrog many other regions, all it needs is to have a vision and embrace technology to assist in making this a reality.”
At its core, BGA is built upon three pillars: knowledge, skills, and community. Unlike traditional education, BGA's dynamic hybrid model leverages a digital platform, empowering Learners to engage with coursework flexibly from anywhere in the world. BGA Hubs, physical spaces fostering co-learning, serve as vibrant centres where Learners grow socially, intellectually, and emotionally.
“We're focus on creating opportunities in the changing digital world by opening doors for Learners and their new horizons.” - Lidia Vieira
What truly distinguishes BGA is its emphasis on flexibility. Learners have the unique opportunity to integrate education seamlessly with existing passions and commitments. This flexibility is further embodied in the role of educators at BGA. They deconstruct the teaching position into two distinct roles: Learning Coaches and Course Managers, each addressing the diverse needs of every Learner. As mentors, Learning Coaches ignite and guide the journey of self-directed learning, offering continuous support within our BGA Hubs. On the other hand, Course Managers are devoted curriculum experts, enhancing and elevating our online platform. They design assignments, quizzes, and offer academic feedback and face-to-face sessions, creating a vibrant and immersive learning journey.
In the past year, BGA has expanded its scope beyond secondary education to fulfil our overarching objective of lifelong learning. The introduction of BGA for Life has given rise to a dedicated branch of the academy focused on tertiary education and beyond. Notably, the initiative includes programmes like Unique Pathway, enabling Learners to seamlessly transition from the completion of IGCSEs, utilising BGA's learning approach, to a trajectory leading to a university degree offered by partner universities globally. This innovative approach opens doors for Learners of all ages worldwide to access a high-quality university education and skillset at a significantly reduced cost compared to studying abroad.
BGA takes pride in its multiple Hubs across Namibia, Kenya, Mozambique, and South Africa. The opening of two new Hubs in Mozambique this month, with South Africa also expanding in the near future, marks the exponential growth BGA is witnessing. BGA is also looking to expand its footprint to other nations without a current Hub, such as Angola.
“Africa will influence the future in so many ways due to its growing number of young talent, and BGA wants to play its role in contributing to this future.” The commitment to expansion goes beyond these achievements, as CEO Tim Vieira actively collaborates with the Cape Verde government to address educational challenges in the islands, envisioning a tailored BGA solution.
This innovative school envisions Learners not just as recipients of education but as active contributors to their communities, fostering real-world projects, volunteer initiatives, and practical internships. As they welcome more African countries into the fold, Brave Generation Academy is thrilled to make a meaningful impact on a continent that holds the key to the future.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Brave Generation Academy.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact: contact@bravegenerationacademy.com
BGA Website: www.BraveGenerationAcademy.com
BGA Linktree: https://apo-opa.co/3O11AAw
JOHANNESBURG: Western Province batter Edward Moore has been added to the Proteas Test squad for the two-match series against New Zealand....
Nzimande announces R3.8bn funding for ‘missing middle’ students
Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, has revealed that government has set aside a R3.8 billion initial capitalisation fund to support “missing middle” students.
The new Comprehensive Student Funding Model aims to support students including those currently not supported by the National Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) bursary and funding policy.
This category of students is those who come from families who have a total income of more than R350 000, but not more than R600 000 per annum.
Nzimande, who was addressing the media on Sunday, revealed that the funding model is divided into two phases.
Phase one begins this year, 2024/2025, with the State committing the initial capitalisation fund totalling R3.8 billion to support the loan scheme.
This amount comprises R1.5 billion from the National Skills Fund (NSF) and R2.3 billion from Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs).
“This amount will fund 47% of the missing middle students, that is, 31 884 of the estimated 68 446 missing middle,” he said at the media briefing held in Pretoria.
“We have also committed funds to revive NSFAS ICT [information and communications technology] systems, including the loan system.”
On implementing the scheme, he said his department has so far consulted with the National Treasury, university Vice-Chancellors and student leaders.
“Further workshops will be held with the registrars and student financial officers once NSFAS has obtained Board approval for the funding guidelines.”
Second phase
Meanwhile, the department is working around the clock to implement the second phase of the funding model from next year to 2034.
“The department will ensure that the seed funding contribution by government is increased to R31.6 billion to R42.1 billion over 10 years. This is approximately R3.1 billion to R4.2 billion annually."
Criteria and expansion
“Together with the National Treasury, we will continue to engage with relevant institutions, including public and private financial institutions to expand the scheme.”
To qualify for the loan, students should meet the following criteria:
• Students whose annual household income is between R350 000 to R600 000;
• Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and public university students;
• Undergraduate or postgraduate students;
• 70% science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programmes (which may be adjusted to include commercial programmes that are in demand in the labour market or entrepreneurial programmes);
• 30% Humanities programmes;
• Students willing to sign a loan agreement;
• Students can apply for the loan in the first, second or third year to continue to be funded through the loan;
• Students are expected to get an average of 60% pass rate and the loan will cover tuition, learning material and accommodation;
• Students who obtain 70% or above on average and within the prescribed time will get a 50% reduction on loans on request.
Nzimande has described this move as “yet another important milestone in the commitments of the ANC-led government to advance a better life for all as we celebrate 30 years of freedom”.
The loan scheme will be administered by NSFAS which has the legal mandate to offer student loans as per Section 4 of NSFAS Act 1999.
“NSFAS represents one of the most progressive and successful efforts by the government to systematically break the legacies of inter-generational social inequality in access post-school education and training.”
Between 2019 and 2022, NSFAS has disbursed R123 billion distributed across 2 918 624 beneficiaries. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 01/15/2024 - 09:43
JSK seeking first victory after an abandoned opening clash Monday, 15 January 2024: Durban’s Super Giants are looking to preserve their...
Closing date for submission of entry applications is 31 January 2024 14th edition of the Simola Hillclimb takes place in the scenic Garden Route town of Knysna from 2 to 5 May 2024 New class B10 for Modified Street Cars provides ideal opportunity for enthusiast owners of modified or tuned street-legal cars to compete […]
The award-winning All Africa Festival (AAF), the UAE’s largest celebration of Africa’s rich and diverse cultures in all their vibrant expressions and representations, is set to make a return for its 3rd edition, debuting in the nation’s capital, Abu Dhabi. The festival will take place from 02 – 04 February 2024 and will see the …
In a hyper-connected world where ‘blue ticking’ is a serious no-no, red notification signs activate some compulsive finger twitching, and the ping of an email hitting your inbox compels you to drop everything and click “open”, it’s no wonder that for the large part, highly successful leaders are worn out! In observing success, it seems …
Johnnie Walker, the world’s number one Scotch whisky, is taking a walk on the bright side with the announcement of its latest addition to the South African market, Johnnie Walker Blonde. This exciting new expression marks a significant milestone in the brand’s journey, as it continues to push the boundaries of whisky craftsmanship. Retailing for …
Prof Lourens Van Staden appointed as NSFAS acting Chair
Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, has announced the appointment of Professor Lourens Van Staden as acting Chairperson of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) with immediate effect.
This after NSFAS Board Chairperson, Ernest Khosa, voluntarily tabled a notice of 30 days leave of absence for the organisation to deal with allegations against him as contained in the recordings distributed by the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA).
The OUTA is accusing both Khosa and the Minister of defrauding the scheme through kickbacks from service providers.
Van Staden is the former Vice Chancellor of the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).
“I have already had a briefing session with him emphasising the importance of NSFAS to prioritise readiness for the beginning of the 2024 academic year. The acting Chairperson will also prioritise the employment of a new CEO and fully implement the Werksmans report that was commissioned by NSFAS,” Nzimande said on Sunday.
Last year, the NSFAS Board appointed law firm Werksmans Attorneys and advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi to probe claims of irregularities involving a tender awarded to four firms to pay allowances to students.
The investigation follows allegations against the now-axed NSFAS CEO, Andile Nongogo, relating to his conflict of interest in the appointment of service providers.
According to the findings, Nongogo actively participated in the presentation to the Bid Evaluation Committee (BEC) of proposals by service providers.
The probe also found he violated the public procurement processes of NSFAS, which he was employed to safeguard and uphold and has since been fired.
Labour court decision and report
In addition, last week, the Board of the NSFAS welcomed the Labour Court’s decision to declare the termination of the contract of employment of Nongogo as lawful and valid.
“The NSFAS Board further welcomes the decision by the Court to dismiss with costs the application by Mr Nongogo to strike out certain paragraphs as contained in the Werksmans Attorney’s report, which implicates him of irregular conduct concerning the appointment of direct payment service providers.
“The decision by the court vindicates the NSFAS Board in terminating Mr Nongogo’s contract of employment following his irregular involvement in the appointment of the direct payment service providers.”
The financial aid scheme said it views the report as a necessary and important measure to push “NSFAS to a much more elevated level of consciousness to fight corruption and the capture of NSFAS by some unscrupulous people masquerading as business people”.
In addition, NSFAS believes that the document also serves as a measure for NSFAS to further strengthen its own internal supply chain management systems and controls.
“Following this groundbreaking judgement, NSFAS will vigorously continue with its legal process towards the termination of contracts of direct payment service providers.”
The implicated firms include Tenet Technologies, Coinvest, eZaga Holdings and Norraco Corporation.
“The termination of the direct payment service providers will be handled with due care not to disrupt the disbursement of the allowances to students in the 2024 academic year.
“NSFAS will now focus all its efforts towards its immediate task of preparation for the seamless beginning of the 2024 academic year.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 01/15/2024 - 10:34
Umalusi approves release of 2023 matric exam results
National education quality assurance body, Umalusi, has approved the release of the November 2023 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.
This was announced by Umalusi council chairperson Professor Yunus Ballim at a media briefing on Monday.
More than 890 000 fulltime and part-time candidates sat for the matric exams administered by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) at the back end of 2023.
“Having studied all the evidence presented, EXCO of Council concluded that the examinations were administered largely in accordance with the regulations pertaining to the conduct, administration and management of the [NSC] examinations.
“EXCO of Council therefore approves the release of the DBE November 2023 [NSC] examination results,” Ballim said.
He added that irregularities that were identified during the writing and marking stages of the examinations “were not systemic and therefore did not compromise the overall credibility and integrity” of the NSC exams administered by the DBE.
“In respect of identified irregularities, the DBE is required to block the results of all candidates implicated in irregularities including the candidates who are implicated in the alleged acts of dishonesty pending the outcome of the DBE investigations and verification by Umalusi.
“Umalusi is concerned about the recurring instances of printing and packaging errors in question papers and the ongoing practice of group copying.
“The DBE is required to address the directors for compliance and improvement highlighted in the quality assurance of assessment report and to submit an improvement plan by the 15th of March 2024,” he said.
The ministerial announcement on the exam results is expected to be made by DBE Minister Angie Motshekga on Thursday (18 January) with the general result release set for the next day (Friday).
Examination challenges
Umalusi CEO, Dr Mafu Rakometsi, laid bare some of the issues that some learners experienced during the examinations.
The challenges were related to printing errors, poor print quality and translation quality.
These include:
“To mitigate the possible impact of the above errors on performance of candidates, the questions concerned were excluded from the marking process and the marks achieved upscaled using conversion tables.
“Not withstanding that, Umalusi urges all role players to put in stringent measures to prevent the recurrence of errors like these. This is because being fair to candidates means, among other things, being able to foresee and address any factor that may result in candidates performing poorly due to no fault of their own,” he said.
Rakometsi emphasised that while group copying incidents are lower, Umalusi remains “seriously concerned about the group copying cases” involving 945 NSC candidates that were detected by the Department of Basic Education (DBE).
“These cases are not yet resolved because the numbers are still being verified. Of the total, 763 cases…were detected in KwaZulu-Natal and 164 cases…were detected in Mpumalanga.
“Umalusi is extremely encouraged by the fact that there were no detected cases of paper leakages. No papers were leaked in these examinations and…the examinations have therefore not been compromised in terms of their credibility and integrity,” Rakometsi. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 01/15/2024 - 12:21
The retail industry is undergoing a massive transformation, driven by the internet, customer expectations, and emerging technologies. Retailers need to adapt and innovate to survive and thrive in this new era of digital retail.
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Distributed by APO Group on behalf of IT News Africa.
Mayco member says the City has to manage 45,000 units and prioritises repairing them based on safety