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Recreational Fishing Permit Application goes online

Location: News

Recreational Fishing Permit Application goes online

Recreational fishers can now apply for their Monthly and Annual Recreational Fishing Permits on the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE)’s online Recreational Fishing Permit Application.

In a statement on Sunday, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Barbara Creecy said the online permitting system will enable enthusiastic recreational fishers and members of the public to easily access a recreational permit without having to travel distances to find a Post Office.

“Applicants will be able to choose the type of permit they require, select the period of validity, process payments and download the permit,” Creecy said.

The development of the solution came about as a result of the challenges faced by the department in issuing recreational fishing permits to the public through the South African Post Office (SAPO).

“Given the recent closure of a number of the SAPO branches, the department embarked on a process to develop an in-house online platform to ensure accessibility for the public to purchase the recreational fishing permits electronically. 

“The solution provides applicants with functional options to register, apply and obtain permits for recreational fishing in South African waters. Fishers will be able to choose the type of permit they require, select the period of validity, process payments and download the permit,” the Minister said.

The online solution is complimentary to the SAPO issued permits, so members of the public that have no internet access, can still use the nearest SAPO branch.

The online solution can be accessed using the link below.

https://www.fishing.dffe.gov.za

A detailed user guide explaining how to go navigate the platform is accessible on the platform and on the DFFE website. –SANews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Sun, 10/22/2023 - 12:24

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Advocate Gcaleka recommended as next Public Protector

Location: News

Advocate Gcaleka recommended as next Public Protector

The National Assembly (NA) has voted to recommend to President Cyril Ramaphosa that he appoint Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka as South Africa’s new Public Protector (PP).

Gcaleka has served as Deputy Public Protector since February 2020, before acting as head of the institution when Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane was suspended in June 2022.

As set out in the Constitution, the PP’s office is a Chapter 9 institution with powers to, amongst others, investigate “any conduct in State affairs, or in the public administration in any sphere of government, that is alleged or suspected to be improper or to result in any impropriety or prejudice”.

The NA’s process to nominate a new PP began in May this year with the establishment of the Ad Hoc Committee to Nominate a Person for Appointment as Public Protector.

The committee issued a call for nominations or applications from the public in accordance with Section 59(1) of the Constitution, which obligates public participation in processes of the NA.

“Broadly, the provision states that the NA must facilitate public involvement in its legislative and other processes, and conduct its business in an open manner and hold its sittings, and those of its committees, in public. The Committee accordingly conducted its business in an open and transparent manner,” Parliament said in a statement.

Some 53 nominations and 17 applications were received as a result.

“Of the 53 nominations, 32 did not meet the nomination requirements as set out in the advertisement and two candidates subsequently withdrew from the process. Eight candidates were shortlisted for interviews and underwent reference checks and verification of qualifications.

“Following the rigorous interview process, the Committee met on 29 August to deliberate and agreed to recommend to the NA that it nominate Advocate Gcaleka for appointment as Public Protector,” the statement read.

Parliament explained the requirements that have to be met in order to be appointed as head of the Chapter 9 institution.

“The person must be a South African citizen, who is fit and proper to hold such office, and who is a Judge of a High Court or is admitted as an advocate or an attorney and has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years after having been so admitted, practiced as an advocate or an attorney; or is qualified to be admitted as an advocate or an attorney and has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years after having so qualified, lectured in law at a university, or has specialised knowledge of or experience, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years, in the administration of justice, public administration or public finance,” Parliament said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 10/20/2023 - 10:42

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Five tips to encourage you navigate the school application process

Location: MyPR

With the deadline fast approaching to enrol Grade 1 or Grade 8 scholars into schools in Gauteng for the 2024 academic year, there is help for parents who might be intimidated by the online application process. Mohlago Ndebele, Service Team Lead at SPARK Schools, offers some suggestions and tips to guide parents and guardians through …

Read moreFive tips to encourage you navigate the school application process

KZN Executive commits to continued improved audit outcomes

Location: News

KZN Executive commits to continued improved audit outcomes

The KwaZulu-Natal Executive Council says provincial departments will continue to improve their audit outcomes in future administrative terms.

“In keeping up with the improved audit outcomes for the 2022/23 financial year where, among others, 86% of the auditees submitted financial statements free from material misstatements, compared to 50% in the previous administration, the Executive Council declared that there will be more positive outcomes in the future,” said KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube.

She said while the Executive Council had laid a solid foundation for future clean audits, there was a need to provide guidance to those departments that were struggling to realise positive outcomes. 

“This is about service delivery to our people and a government that is responsive to the needs of the people, anchored on compliance, accountability and transparency, among other pillars,” Dube-Ncube said.

The KwaZulu-Natal Business Unit Leader for the Auditor-General Nomalungelo Mkhize presented awards to the departments and entities that received clean audit outcomes during a ceremony on Wednesday. 

The awards recognise good performance and good governance in the financial management. 

Six departments, including the Office of the Premier; Provincial Treasury; Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs; Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism; Community Safety; and Agriculture and Rural Development, received clean audit outcomes for the 2022/23 audit cycle.

The KwaZulu-Natal Legislature also received a clean audit.

Twelve provincial public entities - including 10 which are under the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, one in Human Settlements and one in Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs - also received awards from the Auditor General for attaining clean audits.

The Auditor General lauded the provincial coordinating departments, including the Office of the Premier and the Provincial Treasury, for maintaining clean audit status thus setting a commendable example for the province. 

The Auditor General said by coordinating departments the leadership had assisted other departments to improve undesirable or sustain positive audit outcomes though the various initiatives deployed.

The Premier commended the Director-General of the Province, Dr Nonhlanhla Mkhize, for providing seamless interaction between the Executive Council and government. 

“Dr Mkhize is a diligent public servant and a strong bridge that not only connects government, through Heads of Department and Cabinet, but ensures that there is implementation of resolutions of the Executive Council. Clean governance is one of the core resolutions of Cabinet,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier said government’s full migration to digitisation will eliminate human errors and assist the Auditor General perform its duties with ease, speed and diligence. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Thu, 10/19/2023 - 11:55

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NSG celebrates 10 years of excellence

Location: News

NSG celebrates 10 years of excellence

Public Service and Administration Minister Noxolo Kiviet says the mandate of the National School of Government (NSG) is to ensure that it provides education, training and development (ETD) interventions to appointed public servants and elected public representatives.

According to Kiviet, this is to ensure that they can fulfil their responsibilities.

Addressing the 10th anniversary celebration of the NSG virtually, Kiviet said the NSG continues to strengthen its partnerships domestically and internationally towards leveraging the relevant expertise.

“Through the initiatives of the National School of Government and its partners, our elected public representatives and appointed public servants continue to gain significant insights in improving public service delivery and responding to the needs of our people,” Kiviet said.

The NSG continues to grow its global footprint of partnerships playing a role in knowledge exchanges through training exchanges and influencing public sector discourse.

“It has created linkages and collaborations with like-minded institutions in the world to work closely to build the capacity of the public sector to promote good governance in public administration.

“The NSG has scored several achievements in the past 10 years. The institution has delivered training programmes reaching more than 526 000 learners, generating revenue from course fees of more than R1 billion.

“It has become a highly regarded ETD institution within the public sector, with a growing reputation as a platform for thought leadership and robust engagements and debates within government and academia.

“It continues to register good progress and impressive performance on its mandate. The school has proven to be resilient during difficult times. Through innovation and agility, it overcame the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The NSG quickly developed the COVID-19 response plan, which prioritised digital and online learning interventions,” the Minister said.

Kiviet said because of this quick response, the institution saw an unprecedented number of online enrolments for eLearning courses.

Also in attendance at the anniversary celebration was DPSA former Minister Faith Muthambi, who wished the institution well on its journey to educating public servants.

The NSG turns 10 this month and a number of activities are taking place this week to mark the milestone, as well as the contribution of the school towards public sector capacity-building and performance.

The NSG came into existence through a proclamation by the President, which was gazetted on 21 October 2013, replacing the then Public Administration Leadership and Management Academy (PALAMA). The proclamation made the NSG a national government department under the portfolio of the Minister of Public Service and Administration.

The work of the NSG has also been enhanced by the decision of government to make building a capable, ethical and developmental State the number one priority among the seven priorities outlined in the 2019 - 2024 Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF).

The NSG offers training in the three spheres of government to all levels - from the cadet and foundation phase, to middle and senior management as well as executive management.

Its expanded mandate also includes Directors-General, Deputy Directors-General and political office-bearers, where the focus includes building expertise on economic governance, political oversight and accountability.

The past three years have seen Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Mayors and councillors participating in the programmes of the school as part of the concerted effort at improving State capacity at the highest level.

The NSG committed in its Strategic Plan 2019-2024 to use partnerships with public and private institutions in South Africa and the rest of the world to deliver quality education, training and development interventions to expand learning opportunities through access to international expertise and represent the NSG in the global knowledge exchange network in order to position it globally and expand its international footprint and recognition as a thought leader.

The school works with Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and other Management Development Institutes in South Africa, Africa and around the world.

Also in attendance was the Chairperson of the Public Service Commission (PSC) Professor Somadoda Fikeni, as Deputy Chairperson of the Public Service Commission (PSC).

The Public Service Commission derives its mandate from Sections 195 and 196 of the Constitution. The Commission is tasked and empowered to investigate, monitor and evaluate the organisation and administration of the public service.

The Commission also has an obligation to promote measures that will ensure effective and efficient performance with the public service and to promote values and principles of public administration, as set out in the Constitution, throughout the public service. – SAnews.gov.za 

 

Edwin
Thu, 10/19/2023 - 14:51

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Merck Foundation Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with African First Ladies inaugurate their 10th Africa Asia Luminary 2023 in India

Location: News
Merck Foundation

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej and African First Ladies of Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Malawi, Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe, Zimbabwe, Democratic Republic of Congo, to inaugurate 10th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2023 (http://www.Merck-Foundation.com); More than 10,000 participants including healthcare providers, policymakers, researchers, academia and media representatives from 70 English, French, Spanish and Portuguese speaking countries attended the Luminary through hybrid model to benefit from five parallel  scientific and social sessions to  advance healthcare capacity and awareness in 42 critical and underserved medical specialties; Celebrating 6th Anniversary of Merck Foundation and marking 11-year journey of their development programs, during 2023 Luminary; Merck Foundation reported the impact of providing 1700 scholarships to doctors from 50 countries in 42 critical and underserved specialties such as; Oncology, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Preventive, Endocrinology, Fertility, Embryology, Reproductive Care, Respiratory Care, Acute and Intensive Care, Neonatal Care, Pediatric Emergency, Advanced Surgery, Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Internal Medicine, Ophthalmology, Psychiatry, Palliative Care and Pain Management and more; Merck Foundation marked Cancer Awareness Month during their annual conference.

Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted their annual conference, the 10th Edition of “Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary”, in partnership with Tata Memorial Centre and Department of Atomic Energy, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Health of India, State Protocol Office of Government of Maharashtra and Krishna  World University, Karad, on the 18th of October 2023 in Mumbai, India. The conference was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary, along with African First Ladies of 11 countries;

  • H.E. Mrs. NEO JANE MASISI, The First Lady of the Republic of Botswana
  • H.E. Madam ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE, The First Lady of the Republic of Burundi
  • H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO, The First Lady of the Republic of Cabo Verde
  • H.E. Madam BRIGITTE TOUADERA, The First Lady of Central African Republic
  • H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, The First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia
  • H.E. Mrs. REBECCA AKUFO-ADDO, The First Lady of the Republic of Ghana
  • H.E. Mrs. CLAR MARIE WEAH, The First Lady of the Republic of Liberia
  • H.E. Mrs. MONICA CHAKWERA, The First Lady of the Republic of Malawi
  • H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, The First Lady of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe
  • H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe
  • H.E. Madam DENISE NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI, The First Lady of the Democratic Republic of The Congo

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary emphasized, “I am very proud to welcome our Guests of Honors and Keynote Speakers, the First Ladies of Africa and Ambassadors of “More Than a Mother” Campaign, for our annual conference that we have conducted first time in India. Together, we shared experiences and discussed the impact of our programs to transform patient care and raise awareness on a wide range of sensitive and critical social and health. Today we are also marking together Cancer Awareness Month, it is great to remember that Merck Foundation provided 138 scholarships of Oncology Training in many sub-specialties to doctors from 37 African countries, many of them have become the first oncologists in their countries. We are making history together in Africa, with our Ambassadors, First Ladies of Africa and our partners, Tata Hospital and Krishna University.”

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp Chairman of both of Executive Board of E.Merck KG and Merck Foundation Board of Trustees expressed “At Merck Foundation, our goal is improving overall health and well-being by building healthcare capacity and by providing access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in the Africa, Asia and beyond. I would like to thank our partners, African First Ladies and Health Experts, Policy Makers, Government Officials, Academia and Media from more than 70 countries to join hands with us in order to realize the vision of Merck Foundation that “Everyone can lead a Healthy and Happy life.”

“I am proud to share that Merck Foundation has provided more than 1700 scholarships to young doctors from 50 countries in 42 critical and underserved specialties such as Oncology and Cancer care, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Cardiovascular, Fertility Care, Embryology, Sexual & Reproductive Medicine, Internal Medicine, Respiratory Medicine, Acute Medicine, Critical Care, Pediatric Emergency, Gastroenterology, Rheumatology, Clinical Psychiatry, Urology, Ophthalmology, General Surgery, Trauma & Orthopedic, Dermatology, Neonatal Care, Pain Management, Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Advanced Surgical Practice, Neuroimaging for Research and more. Many of them are becoming the first specialists in their countries. Many of these scholarships were conducted in India where a state of art clinical training was provided at the prestigious training institutions of our partners such as Tata Memorial Center, Manipal University, Maharashtra University, Krishna University, Indra IVF Training and more. Therefore, we are very happy to be this year in India to celebrate our 10 years partnership with our respectable Indian partners”, added Senator Kelej.  

During the 10th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary, the First Ladies of 11 African Countries, also the Ambassadors of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”, celebrated the 6th Anniversary of Merck Foundation and marked the 11-year journey of Merck Foundation development programs that started in 2012.

During the day 1 of the conference, the Plenary Session of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2023 was held, during which a high-level panel meeting of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit was conducted.

Day 2 of the conference will have important five parallel Medical and Scientific Sessions on Oncology, Diabetes & Hypertension, Fertility and Reproductive Care, and medical capacity building of other specialties such as; respiratory, acute care, emergency pediatric and neonatal care and more. Additionally, a community awareness session, the Merck Foundation Health Media Training session will also be conducted for the African journalists, to emphasize on the important role that they play to influence the community to create a cultural shift with the aim to Break Infertility Stigma, Support Girl Education, Stop GBV, End Child Marriage, End FGM, and Women Empowerment at all levels.

Countries participating in the 10th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary include:

Angola, Bangladesh, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Canada, Central Africa Republic, Cambodia, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, Gabon, Germany, Ghana, Guinea – Bissau, Guinea – Conakry, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tanzania, Thailand, The Gambia, Togo, Tunisia, U.A.E, UK, Uganda, US, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe and more.

The 10th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2023 was streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation (https://apo-opa.info/3Ykd3hH) and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (https://apo-opa.info/3SfA0AF).

Link to the Facebook live steam of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary & African First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.info/3RYXLPa

Summarizing Merck Foundation's initiatives and impact:

Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with its partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:

• 1700+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for doctors from 50 Countries in 42 critical and underserved medical specialties.  

Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through:

• 3000+ Media Persons from more than 30 countries trained to better raise awareness about different social and health issues

• 8 Different Awards launched annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs

• Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa

• 8 Children's Storybooks in three languages - English, French, and Portuguese

• 7 Awareness Animation films in four languages - English, French, Portuguese and Spanish to raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes & Hypertension and supporting girl education.

• Pan African TV Program "Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community

• 1000+ Girls from 15 African countries supported through scholarships or school items, annually.

• 12 Social Media Channels with more than 5 Million Followers.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

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

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.info/3Ykd3hH
Twitter: https://apo-opa.info/3Yo3y11
YouTube: https://apo-opa.info/3CNFGLa
Instagram: https://apo-opa.info/3lsqM7q
Flickr: https://apo-opa.info/3JT8BSC
Website: Merck-Foundation.com
Download the Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.info/3xeJMsI

About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare and scientific research capacity and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit Merck-Foundation.com to read more. To know more, reach out to our social media: Merck Foundation (Merck-Foundation.com); Facebook (https://apo-opa.info/3Ykd3hH), Twitter (https://apo-opa.info/3Yo3y11), Instagram (https://apo-opa.info/3lsqM7q), YouTube (https://apo-opa.info/3CNFGLa), and Flickr (https://apo-opa.info/3JT8BSC).

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Read moreMerck Foundation Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with African First Ladies inaugurate their 10th Africa Asia Luminary 2023 in India

SASSA takes services to rural Marapyane

Location: News

SASSA takes services to rural Marapyane

In an effort to deal with the high level of unemployment in the area, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in Mpumalanga will today take its services to the Marapyane community located within the Nkangala District.

According to SASSA, most of the communities in the area and the surroundings are dependent on social grants for survival. 

The agency said their services will be offered during the Integrated Community Registration Outreach (ICROP).

“Communities will have full access to all SASSA services and get an opportunity to apply for social grants. Beneficiaries who wish to change the payment method to their banks of choice will be assisted on the spot. All spheres of government, relevant stakeholders and financial institutions will be available to offer their services,” SASSA said. 

The agency explained that it was taking its services to Marapyane because there is a temporal service point that operates from Monday to Friday, 09:00 – 15:00.

This service point provides services to five out of 31 wards with a total of 17 villages within a 30km radius. 

“As a result, the local office saw the need to conduct an ICROP with the intention of to reducing the intake backlog, overcrowding and long traveling distances by clients to other nearby SASSA offices,” the agency said.   

For more information clients can contact the toll free number during working days/hours on 0800 60 10 11, or Whatsapp 082 046 8553. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Wed, 10/18/2023 - 09:49

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National School of Government turns 10

Location: News

National School of Government turns 10

The National School of Government (NSG) turns 10 years this month and a number of activities are taking place this week to mark the milestone as well as the contribution of the school towards public sector capacity building and performance.

Principal of the NSG, Professor Busani Ngcaweni, said the school will use the celebrations to reach out to its target market in the public sector and raise awareness of the work of the School in broader society.

“The NSG has an important role to play in the drive towards a more professional, efficient, effective and caring public sector. Together with our partners, we look forward to working even harder to attain the goals set by government to achieve an ethical, capable developmental state,” said Ngcaweni.

The NSG came into existence through a proclamation by the President which was gazetted on 21 October 2013, replacing the then Public Administration Leadership and Management Academy (PALAMA). The proclamation made the NSG a national government department under the portfolio of the Minister of Public Service and Administration.

The NSG will mark its 10th year anniversary with a celebratory event on 19 October 2023, among other events and the NSG Open Week.

The School said it has scored several achievements in the past 10 years of existence. The institution has delivered training to more than 526 000 participants, generating revenue from course fees of more than R1 billion. 

“The past three years since 2020 have been a period of renewal and repositioning, with the NSG engaging in a robust marketing and visibility drive within its target market, public servants, as well as the broader public sector and academia in South Africa and beyond,” the National School of Government said in a statement.

"The school hosted several high impact engagements such as the Master Classes delivered virtually and face-to-face, thus earning a space as a thought leader on governance and the building of a professional public sector.

“The NSG continues to ensure good governance and financial management, with unqualified and clean audits being registered in consecutive years,” the NSG said. 

The NSG has proven to be resilient during difficult times. Through innovation and agility, the school overcame the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The pandemic lockdown that was declared in March 2020 caused booking cancellations and a low uptake of courses.

“The NSG COVID-19 response plan prioritised digital and online learning interventions as well as the installation and application of digital tools.

“The NSG also saw an unprecedented number of online enrolments for eLearning courses. For the period April 2020 to December 2021, 123 000 learners enrolled for the eLearning courses. Over the last three years alone, there has been eLearning enrolments of more than 194 000 learners,” it said.

The work of the NSG has also been enhanced by the decision of government to make building a capable, ethical and developmental state the number one priority among the seven priorities outlined in the 2019-2024 Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF).

The NSG offers training in the three spheres of government to all levels - from the cadet and foundation phase to middle and senior management as well as executive management.

its expanded mandate also includes Directors-General, Deputy Directors-General and political office-bearers, where the focus includes building expertise on economic governance, political oversight and accountability.

The past three years have seen Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Mayors and councillors participating in the programmes of the school as part of the concerted effort at improving state capacity at the highest level.  

The delivery model includes classroom-based learning, practice-based learning, e-Learning, webinars, student exchanges and dialogue with actors in the public and private sector.

The work of the NSG is also supported by various local and international partners.

The NSG committed in its Strategic Plan 2019-2024 to use partnerships with public and private institutions in South Africa and the rest of the world to deliver quality education, training and development interventions to expand learning opportunities through access to international expertise and represent the NSG in the global knowledge exchange network in order to position it globally and expand its international footprint and recognition as a thought leader. The School works with Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and other Management Development Institutes in South Africa, Africa and around the world.

These partnerships have seen public officials engage in exchanges with similar and leading institutions from Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas.

Flagship programmes

The NSG delivers high-level executive education programmes as well as compulsory programmes for public servants.

The Cabinet-approved Economic Governance School for Members of the Executive programme  targets Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Premiers, Members of Executive Councils, Mayors and Members of Mayoral Councils. The purpose of the programme is to enable Members of the Executive to reflect and broaden perspectives on critical topics as they work towards building a capable developmental state and to achieve the country’s economic recovery.

The NSG also delivers Etella, which means ‘lead’ in Sesotho, a leadership programme for Accounting Officers, namely Directors-General, Heads of Departments (HoDs) in provincial government, Municipal Managers, Chief Executive Officers of public enterprises and Ambassadors as Heads of Missions.

All persons wishing to be appointed into the senior management service in government must successfully complete the compulsory Nyukela programme offered by the NSG, with effect from 1 April 2020. In the 2022/23 financial year, a total of 7450 learners enrolled for the course, with 5523 learners successfully completing the programme. The target group includes those individuals who aspire to work in the senior management service for the first time, and those progressing from one level within the SMS to another, who have not yet done this programme.

The Ethics in the Public Service course was made compulsory for all public servants and has been promoted extensively online as one of the NSG’s flagship programmes. It continues to attract many public servants, which augurs well for Priority One, to build an ethical, capable and developmental state. In the 2022/23 financial year, there was a total enrolment of 16753 participants. A total of 13765 learners completed the course, which reflected an 82% achievement.

The NSG programmes also extend to traditional leadership. A total of 73 traditional leaders attended the NSG Art of Facilitation programme in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. The programme seeks to empower traditional leaders to act as economic change agents in their communities and to participate in leading rural development interventions that create sustainable jobs and community wealth. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 10/18/2023 - 10:26

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Read moreNational School of Government turns 10

Bowmans appoints Zingisa Motloba as partner in its Johannesburg Private Equity Practice

Location: MyPR

Leading African law firm Bowmans is further strengthening its private equity presence through the appointment of Zingisa Motloba as partner in its Johannesburg office. ‘Zingisa has an impressive array of skills and experience, including an excellent understanding of risk management in ESG matters, from which our private equity clients stand to benefit’ says Ezra Davids, …

Read moreBowmans appoints Zingisa Motloba as partner in its Johannesburg Private Equity Practice

Nurturing of Mental Health in the Workplace

Location: MyPR

By: Ahmed El Hofy JOHANNESBURG, October 16th, 2023 – The once-clear boundaries between personal and professional lives have often become increasingly blurred. Change in work dynamics, facilitated by the rise of remote working, hybrid office structures, and post-pandemic changes, have drastically altered how we navigate both our work and personal spaces. Each of these shifts …

Read moreNurturing of Mental Health in the Workplace

SA condemns violation of the Geneva Conventions

Location: News

SA condemns violation of the Geneva Conventions

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) has condemned in the strongest possible terms Israel’s violation of the Geneva Conventions and the abandonment of International Humanitarian Law in Gaza.

According to the World Health Organisation, the complete blockage of the Gaza Strip announced by Israel remains in effect.

Israeli authorities have stopped their electricity and water supply to the Gaza Strip and no movements of food, fuel, health, other humanitarian supplies or patients are allowed – worsening the already dire situation, said Dirco in a statement.

Article 14 of the Geneva Convention states: “Starvation of civilians as a method of combat is prohibited. It is therefore prohibited to attack, destroy, remove or render useless for that purpose, objects indispensable to the survival of the civilian population such as food-stuffs, agricultural areas for the production of food-stuffs, crops, livestock, drinking water installations and supplies and irrigation works”.

According to the Fourth Geneva Convention, “civilians in areas of armed conflict and occupied territories are protected by the 159 articles of the Fourth Geneva Convention. Civilians are to be protected from murder, torture, or brutality, and from discrimination on the basis of race, nationality, religion or political opinion”.

The UN Commission on Human Rights has previously declared Israel’s “continuous grave breaches” of the Fourth Geneva Convention and Additional Protocol I to be war crimes.

“International Humanitarian Law includes the obligation not to target civilian populations, and the responsibility to protect civilians in armed conflict. Israeli bombardments from the air, sea, and land have continued and intensified across the Gaza Strip for the sixth consecutive day.

“This is an egregious violation of International Humanitarian Law,” said Dirco.

According to the latest report from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the continual bombardment of the Gaza strip has now resulted in over 423 000 internally displaced people, this represents an increase of 24 percent over the past 24 hours. Two-thirds of the IDPs are taking shelter in UNRWA schools.

“[The] announcement by Israel giving 1.1 million Gazans 24 hours to leave the Northern Gaza strip and evacuate to the South of Gaza will lead to further catastrophe as, according to humanitarian organisations on the ground, there are not enough resources to host so many IDPs in other governorates - not enough shelter, aid or water.

“The UN has announced that UN schools turned into shelters are already overrun with shortages in resources, including food, water, medicine, and other humanitarian provisions as required under International Law,” the DIRCO statement read.

The department urged the Israeli government to heed calls to provide services to the Gaza strip.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has stressed that crucial life-saving supplies, including fuel, food and water, must be allowed into Gaza.

Between 100 and 150 Israelis, including soldiers and civilians, some of whom are women and children, as well as some foreign nationals, have been captured and forcibly taken into Gaza. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has also called for the “immediate release of all Israeli hostages, which is also forbidden under International Humanitarian Law”.

“South Africa calls on Israel to immediately heed the calls of the UN Secretary General, the plethora of humanitarian organisation operating in Gaza, and a number of governments around the world to immediately provide water, food, fuel, and electricity to the people of Gaza.

“South Africa also calls for the release of the Israeli hostages taken into Gaza,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Sun, 10/15/2023 - 09:01

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Read moreSA condemns violation of the Geneva Conventions

Health Department to introduce recent vaccines to improve existing coverage

Location: News

Health Department to introduce new vaccines to improve existing coverage

As part of efforts to improve coverage of existing vaccines, the Department of Health is set to introduce new vaccines to be included in the routine expanded program on immunisation at a cost of R3.5 billion.

Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, made the announcement during a media briefing following a meeting with Health MECs held in Centurion on Thursday.

Phaahla noted that South Africa continues to experience outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, despite a strong childhood vaccination programme.

He said there is an ongoing need to improve coverage of existing vaccines and add new vaccines to the expanded program on immunisation schedule. 

The Minister said the department is introducing a better packaged/derived vaccine that will prevent Whooping Cough, Tetanus and Diphtheria and reduce the chances of these conditions resurfacing within the communities. 

“We are also introducing a combination vaccine of measles and rubella that will protect young girls, particularly during pregnancy which may lead to birth defects,” Phaahla said. 

He said all these changes, recommended by the Ministerial-appointed National Advisory Group on Immunisation (NAGI), will be implemented with effect from January 2024. 

Expansion of online birth registrations rollout

The Minister also announced that the Department of Home Affairs has made budget provision for the set-up and operational costs for the expansion of Online Registration System by an additional 91 health facilities during 2023/24 financial year.  

This forms part of collaborative efforts between the Departments of Health and Home Affairs to ensure that all births are registered on time, through the Online Birth Registration system, which has been rolled in 161 health facilities with ability to issue birth certificates on the spot.

“These facilities will be allocated full-time Home Affairs officials to provide birth registration service during office hours. The establishment of the system in these new facilities will commence by the end of October 2023. This initiative will go a long way in providing early birth registration,” Phaahla said.

Integration of COVID-19 vaccinations into primary health services

Meanwhile, the Minister announced that the department has decided to make a number of changes related to COVID-19 vaccinations, which include transitioning from a mass vaccination campaign to integrate vaccination into routine primary health care services.

This is in line with World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations.

Phaahla said the current available Pfizer vaccine stock purchased as part of the COVID-19 national vaccination rollout will expire at the end of October 2023, while the J&J vaccine doses will expire at the end of February 2024. 

The EVDS (Electronic Vaccination Data System) will continue to record all COVID-19 vaccinations until 29 February 2024, thereafter those vaccinated will receive a paper-record of vaccination, but they will still be able to download vaccination certificates as long as they have at least one vaccination code.

“The department plans to procure vaccines for administration in the public sector and will continue to work with the private sector to facilitate availability of vaccines. All restrictions limiting procurement of vaccines by private sector providers will be lifted,” Phaahla explained. 

He added that the investigation and causality assessment of COVID-19 vaccination-related Adverse Events Following Immunisation (AEFIs) will continue and mechanisms for processing No Fault Compensation Scheme claims will be retained. 

Phaahla also gave an update on various issues affecting the public health system, including cost containment measures; audit outcomes and performance against targets; medico-legal claims, among others. – SAnews.gov.za 

 

GabiK
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 10:44

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“Closing the care gap – the role of families” in Breast Cancer battle

Location: News

WHO Regional Office for Africa
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The Ministry of Health, Cancer Unit has recorded 577 cases of cancer between January 2023 and June 2023, 33 of which are cancers of the breast. While many cancer patients in middle-income countries succumb to the disease, 50-year-old Fikile Hlatjwayo is lucky to have survived the deadly disease. Hlatjwayo was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015 and started treatment, which at that time was only available in South Africa through the Phalala Fund. It was only in 2022 that the Ministry of Health established an oncology unit in Manzini, through support from the Bristol Myer Squibb Foundation (BMSF). This came as a relief to cancer patients like Hlatjwayo as services became available in the country. This enabled patients to receive not only medical support but also support from family, true to this year's theme of Global Breast Cancer Awareness month “Closing the care gap, the role of families”.

The establishment of the oncology unit enabled the Ministry of Health to construct a radiation facility. The official opening of Manzini Oncology Hospital has witnessed an increase in the number of clients accessing services and the only facility that provides strictly cancer in-patient care. This has eased the burden on Mbabane Government Hospital, which was the only center that provided chemotherapy services, and reduced the referral to neighboring countries/private facilities. Currently, the hospital has one Oncologist who works in both Manzini and Mbabane Hospital. Further, the Ministry of Health has assigned some Medical Officers to work in the Oncology Unit.

Hlatjwayo says the availability of cancer treatment in local facilities has lessened the stress of having to spend a lot of time away from her family whilst receiving treatment in neighboring countries. “I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015 and I received treatment again in 2022 because some cancer cells were found in my lungs, but now I am okay. I would like to thank my husband and my children for the support that they gave me throughout my journey with cancer,” she said.

During the launch of the Global Breast Cancer Awareness month in Mbabane, Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Health Khanyakwezwe Mabuza mentioned that this year's theme indeed focused on the role played by family in giving hope and support to cancer patients and overcoming stigma. Mabuza said, just like Hlatjwayo's family, awareness and education can enable families to create a better place for all those who need care and support.

“Understanding and acquiring knowledge about the condition of the sick relative, treatment options that are available and the importance of preventive care empowers families to actively participate in the health care discussion. There is no doubt that without families there is no way we can survive or conquer this scourge,” he said.

The PS outlined that families can foster an inclusive natural environment where individuals feel safe to express their needs. He added that having breast cancer is not an easy road, so by promoting open communication, families can contribute to breaking down the barriers and stigma that surrounds the disease.

“There is a lot of misconception with regards to breast cancer, and families become advocates for the loved ones. This allows the individuals to seek healthcare without fear of judgment and discrimination, he said. Mabuza further emphasized that the Ministry of Health has prioritized cancer control and has ensured universal cancer prevention.  He further applauded the Eswatini Breast and Cervical Cancer Network as well as Eswatini Hospice at Home, among others, for ensuring that cancer patients receive the necessary support.

Speaking at the same event, WHO Representative Dr Susan Tembo mentioned that globally, there are more than 2.3 million cases of breast cancer that occur each year, which makes it the most common cancer among adults. In 95% of countries, breast cancer is the first or second leading cause of female cancer deaths, and nearly 80% of deaths from breast and cervical cancer occur in low- and middle-income countries like Eswatini. Dr Tembo reiterated that breast cancer places a tremendous strain on individuals, families, communities, health systems, and economies, hence it must be a priority for the Ministry of Health and Government.

“Cancer in women including breast cancer leaves a devastating impact on the next generation. A study on cancer, suggests that with an estimated 4.4 million women dying of cancer in 2020, nearly 1 million children were orphaned by cancer, 25% of which were due to breast cancer. Children who lose their mothers to cancer experience health and educational disadvantages throughout their lives, triggering generational, chronic social disruption and financial harm in many cases,” she said.

To mitigate the burden of breast cancer, WHO has released a number of tools including the Global Breast Cancer Initiative Framework which provides a roadmap to attain the targets to save 2.5 million lives from breast cancer by 2040. The new Framework recommends that countries implement the three pillars of health promotion for early detection, timely diagnosis, and comprehensive management of breast cancer to reach the targets. Dr Tembo further urged the Government of Eswatini to ensure that this framework is integrated into primary health care, not only to advance health promotion but also to empower women to seek and receive health care throughout the life cycle.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of WHO Regional Office for Africa.

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Gauteng youth to benefit from free learner’s licence tests

Location: News

Gauteng youth to benefit from free learner’s licence tests

At least 40 000 youth in Gauteng are expected to benefit from the Gauteng Provincial Government’s “Wrong Side of the Road” campaign aimed at providing an opportunity to disadvantaged youth to get free learner’s licences.

“The Gauteng Provincial Government, in partnership with Diageo South Africa, presents an exciting opportunity for young people. Empowering Gauteng’s youth with free learner’s licences serves as a dual-purpose endeavour.

“It is the first phase towards obtaining a driver’s licence, which enhances employability. Additionally, this initiative actively promotes responsible driving during the learning stage, hopefully improving road safety, particularly against drinking and driving,” said Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi.

The provincial government explained that the initiative is in line with efforts to “bridge the unemployment gap and foster responsible attitudes towards alcohol use”.

This initiative is a step further to create a prosperous and safer Gauteng. According to recent statistics from Stats SA, the youth unemployment rate in South Africa remains alarmingly high, at 46.5% in the first quarter of 2023.

Additionally, alcohol misuse continues to be a significant contributor to road accidents through drinking and driving/walking.

“In response to these pressing challenges, Diageo South Africa has joined forces with the Office of the Premier of Gauteng, the Department of Roads and Transport, and the Department of Economic Development to address these issues holistically and bring about positive change.

“Themed ‘Wrong Side of the Road’, the campaign aims to assist youth with administrative fees for securing learner’s licences. To be considered, the participants need to be between the ages of 17 and 34 years and should reside in TISH (townships, informal settlements and hostels) in Gauteng,” the province said.

The province had targeted some 40 000 youth when the initiative was announced in August. However, more than 130 000 responses were received.

“The recruitment phase has concluded, with an overwhelming response from applicants. Those who have successfully progressed will receive the next steps of their journey via SMS and WhatsApp, which include watching a video and completing a short quiz related to understanding the effects of alcohol, and the shame and stigma associated with drunk driving.

“All steps must be completed to be eligible to receive your free learner’s licence booking. This includes your readiness to take the test and achieving an 80% pass rate using the K53 app. All entries will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

“Recognising that some applicants may face data limitations, the initiative encourages individuals to visit their local libraries, where free Wi-Fi access is available for the application process. Please note that only those names on the current recruitment list can continue the journey, and no further registrations will be accepted,” the province said.

Some 10 000 of the 40 000 learner’s licence opportunities will be reserved for motorbike licences, in support of the province’s Project Last-Mile.

“The Last-Mile project aims to license, train, mentor and connect young people to job opportunities. Those interested will receive training and assistance, including access to motorbikes (options include rent-to-own, rental or outright purchase) and contracts with industry-leading partners,” the provincial government said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 10/12/2023 - 11:24

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Read moreGauteng youth to benefit from free learner’s licence tests

Bowmans appoints Effect Linington as tax executive in Johannesburg

Location: MyPR

Leading African law firm Bowmans continues to enhance the breadth and depth of its offering in tax, this time with the appointment of Mark Linington as tax executive in its Johannesburg office. Linington is a chartered accountant with 28 years’ experience as a tax adviser. ‘Mark is a well-known and respected practitioner and will enhance …

Read moreBowmans appoints Effect Linington as tax executive in Johannesburg