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On the 8th of September 2024, Mall of the South brought together key partners, stakeholders, and government officials for the #Holler event 2024, to stand united against human trafficking. The event supported the Home of Hope for Girls, a non-profit providing a safe haven for children and teenagers who have experienced abuse, particularly in cases …
Over 2,400 posts to be lost by 1 January
Minister Gwarube in talks to enhance education sector
Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, has held meetings with various international partners to reinforce South Africa's commitment to enhancing the education sector through global collaboration.
In a statement, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) said these discussions which were held at the departmental offices in Pretoria, emphasised the critical role of international partnerships in advancing the country's educational objectives.
Minister Gwarube met with Andreas Schleicher, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Director for Education and Skills, to discuss the Joint Work Programme (JWP) between South Africa and the OECD.
The JWP, aligned to South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP), supports initiatives in early childhood education, career development and curriculum standards.
“The meeting also covered South Africa’s participation in the 2024 Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS), which offers insights into teacher development and education trends.
Additionally, the OECD offered support for South Africa’s Education Working Group during its G20 Presidency in 2025,” the department said.
In her meeting with UNICEF country representative, Christine Muhigana, Minister Gwarube discussed UNICEF’s collaboration with the DBE.
Key focus areas included Early Childhood Development (ECD), quality basic education and adolescent development.
“UNICEF has played a significant role in supporting South Africa’s efforts to improve ECD, boosting educational outcomes and empowering adolescents, particularly girls, in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). The partnership also aims to strengthen teaching practices and promote skills for the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” the department said.
Minister Gwarube also met with the European Union (EU) Ambassador, Sandra Kramer, to discuss partnerships with South Africa particularly in the field of education.
The EU has supported South Africa’s education sector through the General Budget Support (GBS) approach since 2009, aligning funding with national priorities.
“This partnership has notably improved literacy, numeracy and technology education, especially in Grades 7 to 9. The Minister expressed her gratitude for the EU’s 30 years of support whilst highlighting the importance of continued collaboration,” the DBE said.
The Minister also met with Japanese Ambassador, Ushio Shigeru and JICA Chief Representative, Kaoru Okada, to discuss the long-standing partnership between the DBE and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
“This collaboration, which commenced in 2012, focuses on improving Mathematics, Science and Technology (MST) education. The Minister sought an extension for JICA to finalise the National Mathematics Improvement Plan and acknowledged Japan’s assistance in rebuilding schools damaged by the 2021 floods in the KwaZulu-Natal Province,” the DBE said.
The ongoing meetings have highlighted South Africa’s ongoing commitment to leveraging international partnerships to enhance its education system and address the needs of all learners in a rapidly changing world. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 12:31
Such classes are uncontrollable, says a teacher
By Thula Mngoma (Academic – Regent Business School) In South Africa, women aspiring to leadership roles encounter a landscape shaped by historical inequalities and persistent socio-economic challenges. Regent Business School Academic, Thula Mngoma, examines the specific hurdles faced by women, particularly black women, as they strive for leadership positions. She highlights the strategies that have …
On the back of a successful showing at Schoolscape in Stellenbosch, the Qualibooks Group are headed to Schoolscape IT Gauteng. Hosted at the Indaba Hotel in Fourways on 29 August, the event brings together the education community; showcasing fresh and innovative ways to bring new technologies into the industry. According to the event organizers, the …
Schools are expected to receive their 2025 staff allocations on Friday
Tributes for former Vice-Chancellor of UWC Prof Brian O’Connell
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, has expressed great shock and sadness at the passing of the former Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Western Cape (UWC), Professor Brian O’Connell.
O’Connell passed away on Sunday at the age of 77.
The Minister has remembered O’Connell as an “illustrious” educationist and higher education leader who played a seminal role in basic and higher education following the advent of democracy in South Africa.
“The roots of his passion for social justice, equality and freedom must have been planted during his experiences as a student activist at UWC in the mid-1960s and resonated throughout his extraordinary life,” Nzimande said.
In higher education, the department said O’Connell led the university from 2001 until 2014, a period marked by difficult challenges of financial distress and the “merger” process.
However, under his leadership, the department believes UWC faced up to both challenges with great skill.
The late Professor has also been recognised for guiding UWC through difficult times, transforming it into one of the few historically Black universities in South Africa to successfully overcome its history of marginalisation and stagnation.
“At the core of his transformational leadership role was his stunning success in deliberately positioning UWC to become one of South Africa’s leading teaching and research universities.
“He worked tirelessly to mobilise resources from both South Africa and abroad to finance an ambitious Science Building project at a time of decline in fiscal support for infrastructure at universities.”
For his achievements in education, O’Connell was awarded the National Research Foundation’s (NRF) Lifetime Achievement Award in September 2017.
Nzimande further noted that “Professor O’Connell was without doubt a visionary and charismatic figure in higher education with an unwavering commitment to an agenda promoting progressive education as a public good, and for equality and social justice”.
According to the UWC Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tyrone Pretorius, O’Connell took the helm at a time when the university was facing the aftermath of staff retrenchments, financial vulnerability, the significant loss of academic leadership, evolving enrolment trends, and a despondent campus community.
“In his inaugural address in 2002, O’Connell argued that a university hardly deserves the name if it does not provide a space to grow in hope, to create and share knowledge, and to inform the agency.
“Through this approach, he emphasised the strength of using UWC’s distinctive academic role to rebuild the institution as an inspirational community of hope, to be a premier site of knowledge production, and to draw on the agency of its people to use and produce knowledge as agents of change,” Pretorius recalled.
Under O’Connell’s leadership, the university cemented trusted relationships with several universities internationally.
“These networks served as a strong catalytic force which laid the foundation for new partnerships and alliances.”
He mentioned that O’Connell’s legacy is one of passionate conviction, intellectual clarity and engaged leadership.
“As we mourn the loss of a great man, we also celebrate his extraordinary life and the lasting impact he has had on our university and our society,” Pretorius added.
Among the many honorary doctorates Professor received, he was also bestowed the title Commander of the Order of Leopold II from the Belgian government for his contribution to the global tertiary institution sector.
“Professor O’Connell will be remembered in different ways by individuals he touched, but I have no doubt they will all remember his humility – from picking up litter on campus when he was the Rector, to setting an example for the campus community, or the simple gesture of remembering staff member’s names – even, at times, their families.
“He was warm, affable and always dignified in immensely pressurised and challenging situations.”
Both Nzimande and Pretorius extended their heartfelt condolences to the O’Connell family including his wife Judith and children, Amanda-Leigh and Bryan. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 09:39
The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Education, Sciences and Creative Industries, Mr Makhi Feni, has called on law enforcement agencies to speedily bring to a complete stop the thugs whose actions have closed schools and threatened educators in the Mthatha (OR Tambo District) area.
The committee condemns in the strongest terms the criminal conduct that has led to the closure of Mthatha schools. Mr Feni said: “The people who have decided that schools are soft targets for these nefarious acts are cowards who do not value education whatsoever. They do not have respect for learning time, educators and learners.”
It has been confirmed that Sinolwazi Senior Secondary School, Bambanani Junior Secondary School, Maholweni Junior Secondary School and Laphumikhwezi Junior Secondary School have been all affected by thugs operating in the area who demand money. Teachers from these schools have been threatened and, in one instance, assaulted, and are now not going to work.
Mr Feni said this unacceptable conduct, which has reportedly led to the closure of many businesses in the area, has now gripped the education sector. “This is one area where law enforcements cannot be sluggish or tardy. Surely these thugs are known people. The police should assist before we have a situation of having police and security permanently stationed at schools; that will not be conducive for learning and we do not wish it to happen,” Mr Feni said.
Mr Feni said no man should be allowed to dare the state as these thugs have done and the state must respond to this challenge. “Soon this will extend to clinics, hospitals and homes if no decisive action is taken,” emphasised Mr Feni.
He called on the Department of Education in the Eastern Cape to assist schools with recovery and catch-up plans for the affected learners, especially matriculants who will soon be writing trial examinations. “Educators ought to be schools teaching and learners ought to be learning too,” added Mr Feni. The committee also noted with appreciation the imbizo that was led by King Buyelekhaya Dalinyebo on Tuesday.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Concern over fire incident at Lancea Vale secondary School
Gauteng Education, Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation MEC, Matome Chiloane, has expressed concern about a fire incident at Lancea Vale Secondary School in Eldorado Park.
According to a statement released by the department, the fire resulted in significant damage to three classrooms within the Grade 8 and Grade 9 block.
The incident took place on Tuesday.
“It is indeed concerning that last week Wednesday there was a stabbing incident of a learner by another learner at the same school. We will not tolerate violence or gangsterism perpetuated in around and our schools. In the same breath, we are closely monitoring the situation, and we are certain that learning and teaching will resume accordingly at the school,” MEC Chiloane said.
The department reported that preliminary reports indicate that the fire initially started in Room 81, located on the first floor of Block C.
The fire spread rapidly, completely gutting three classrooms, and the structural safety of the building which is now a concern.
The department said that firefighters will provide a report on the extent of the damage, for a decision to be taken on whether it will be safe to continue with teaching and learning at the affected block of classroom.
The police are also investigating circumstances surrounding the incident. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 11:50
“We Need to Talk About Alcohol,” says Dr Skye Scott It’s curious to me, that of all the substances we have imbibed through our history as humans, the one that we have branded, celebrated, and made available to all, is alcohol. Its use and misuse is at the root of so much insomnia, depression, anxiety, …
Cabinet commends continued law enforcement agencies successes
As part of the ongoing fight against crime, Cabinet has commended the continued successes of law enforcement agencies in the arrest of members of organised crime syndicates and gangs.
Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, highlighted that Operation Shanela of the South African Police Service (SAPS) has ensured the arrest of 766 237 suspects for various crimes, with 161 752 of these were suspects wanted for priority crimes, including murder, cash-in-transit heists, armed robberies, rape and car hijacking, among others.
“Cabinet welcomed the shutting down of an illegal military training camp in White River, Mpumalanga following an intelligence-driven multidisciplinary law enforcement operation which has also resulted in the arrest of 95 Libyan nationals,” Ntshavheni said.
Cabinet reiterated a call to all South Africans to partner with law enforcement agencies in the fight against crime without resorting to vigilantism.
“Cabinet has taken a dim view of actions by some community leaders that amounted to threatening of learners and teachers at their school. The Department of Basic Education will continue to work with the SAPS to ensure schools remain safe spaces for learning and teaching,” Ntshavheni said.
READ | Together, let us 'take back our communities' from criminals – President Ramaphosa
Conviction of former Home Affairs officials welcomed
Cabinet acknowledged the conviction and sentencing of former Home Affairs officials and foreign nationals by the Durban Specialised Commercial Crimes Court, after being found guilty of committing fraud and corruption against the immigration system.
READ | Former DHA official sentenced to 12 years imprisonment
“The successful convictions bolster government’s efforts of building an ethical, professional, and capable developmental state,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 13:06
A letter, apparently written by gangsters in Philippi, warns they will kill Somalis if extortion fees are paid to their rivals
Arts Minister pays tribute to Connie Chiume
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has extended his condolences to the family, friends and fans of legendary actress Connie Chiume.
“Her passing at age 72 marks a profound loss for the South African nation and the world of arts and culture. Chiume’s matchless talents and dedication to her craft have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many,” said the department on Tuesday.
Born in Welkom, South Africa, Chiume’s journey was one of resilience and brilliance. Her early years were spent in Welkom before she completed her matric in the Eastern Cape and graduated with a degree in teaching in 1976.
After a few years of teaching, she pursued her passion for travel and moved to Greece. Chiume began her illustrious acting career with roles in Porgy and Bess, Ipi Ntombi and Little Shop of Horrors.
Upon returning to South Africa, she captivated audiences with her performance as Thembi in the 1989 series Inkom’ Edla Yodwa and the 1990 film Warriors from Hell.
Her talent was recognised with a Best Actress award at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) in 2000.
From 2007 to 2015, Connie gained prominence through her role as Stella Moloi in the SABC1 drama series Zone 14, earning her another SAFTA. She also received the Best Supporting Actress in a Drama award at the third SAFTAs.
In 2015, she charmed viewers in the soap opera Rhythm City as Mamokete Khuse.
Chiume's talent transcended borders when she played the Mining Tribe Elder in Black Panther in 2018.
In 2020, she continued to shine in the drama series Gomora and appeared in the film Black Is King.
She was also a recipient of the Living Legend award at the department’s inaugural Cultural and Creative Industry Awards (CCIAs) that took place on the 30th of March 2024.
Upon learning of the news of Chiume’s passing, McKenzie said: “Her performances brought joy, inspiration, and a sense of pride to countless South Africans. She was more than an actress; she was a beacon of strength, resilience and grace. Mam’ Connie’s contribution to the arts not only entertained. She inspired, educated and uplifted communities throughout our country.
“As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her life and legacy. May her memory continue to inspire future generations of artists. My thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time. May they find comfort in the outpouring of love and support from all those who cherished her.” – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Tue, 08/06/2024 - 20:55
Arts Minister pays tribute to Connie Chuime
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has extends his condolences to the family, friends and fans of legendary actress Connie Chiume.
“Her passing at age 72 marks a profound loss for the South African nation and the world of arts and culture. Connie’s matchless talents and dedication to her craft have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many,” said the department on Tuesday.
Born in Welkom, South Africa, Chiume’s journey was one of resilience and brilliance. Her early years were spent in Welkom before she completed her matric in the Eastern Cape and graduated with a degree in teaching in 1976.
After a few years of teaching, she pursued her passion for travel and moved to Greece. Chuime began her illustrious acting career with roles in Porgy and Bess, Ipi Ntombi and Little Shop of Horrors.
Upon returning to South Africa, she captivated audiences with her performance as Thembi in the 1989 series Inkom’ Edla Yodwa and the 1990 film Warriors from Hell.
Her talent was recognised with a Best Actress award at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) in 2000.
From 2007 to 2015, Connie gained prominence through her role as Stella Moloi in the SABC1 drama series Zone 14, earning her another SAFTA. She also received the Best Supporting Actress in a Drama award at the third SAFTAs.
In 2015, she charmed viewers in the soap opera Rhythm City as Mamokete Khuse.
Chuime's talent transcended borders when she played the Mining Tribe Elder in Black Panther in 2018.
In 2020, she continued to shine in the drama series Gomora and appeared in the film Black Is King.
She was also a recipient of the Living Legend award at the department’s inaugural Cultural and Creative Industry Awards (CCIAs) that took place on the 30th of March 2024.
Upon learning of the news of Chuime’s passing, McKenzie said: “Her performances brought joy, inspiration, and a sense of pride to countless South Africans. She was more than an actress; she was a beacon of strength, resilience and grace. Mam’ Connie’s contribution to the arts not only entertained. She inspired, educated and uplifted communities throughout our country.
“As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her life and legacy. May her memory continue to inspire future generations of artists. My thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time. May they find comfort in the outpouring of love and support from all those who cherished her.” – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Tue, 08/06/2024 - 20:55
Intentional medicine is a holistic approach that integrates the best of both conventional and alternative treatments. It prioritises patient-centered care, focusing on the root causes of illness rather than merely treating the symptoms. Medicine practised with intent embraces conventional, lifestyle, and functional medicine, recognising the importance of a balanced approach to healthcare that is both …
On 1 August 2024, iSchoolAfrica (www.iSchoolAfrica.com) proudly commemorates 15 years of driving educational change across South Africa. Since its inception, iSchoolAfrica has leveraged the world's best technology and educational practices to reduce inequalities, enhance opportunities for exceptional employment, and stimulate economic growth.
iSchoolAfrica's 15 years of success and sustainability stem from an unwavering commitment to making quality technology affordable and accessible. A key element of the programme is the rotation of mobile iPad labs from classroom to classroom – ensuring accessibility, security, longevity, usability, and durability.
The technology solution has a remarkable 5% failure rate, which demonstrates the reliability and durability of their technology. With iPads lasting an estimated 5-6 years within school environments, iSchoolAfrica ensures minimal downtime in schools, contributing to uninterrupted learning and significant cost savings on technical support. This is boosted by the iPads' Mobile Device Management system, which allows for quick and easy remote support.
By upskilling and empowering project champions to execute programs independently, iSchoolAfrica ensures lasting, impactful education solutions with zero compromise on quality and best practices. The fact that there is no compromise gives educators and learners alike the confidence that they matter and this is seen through the improved engagement and performance of the students.
“Over the last 15 years, against all odds we've achieved some incredible things, inspiring teachers to love their jobs again, helping children discover their love of learning through iPad lessons, while sparking hope for countless young learners' futures,“ says Michelle Lissoos, Executive Director of iSchoolAfrica.
Through strategic collaborations with partners, iSchoolAfrica equips South Africa's youth with the tools needed to thrive. The initiative focuses on under-resourced township and rural schools, from Early Childhood Development (ECD) to Grade 12, including mainstream and special needs education. Each school receives a secure mobile lab of 20 iPads, loaded with curriculum software and teacher training and mentoring. The built-in accessibility features of iPads also support children with disabilities, ensuring inclusive education for all.
Another key aspect to iSchoolAfrica's endurance has been the partnerships it has formed along the way. Growthpoint is one such long-term partner, having supported over 25 schools since 2014.
Commenting on their involvement, head of Growthpoint CSR Shawn Theunissen, says: “In order for us to provide support for education, we also needed to ensure that we provide a digital solution. You want to ensure that you are future proofing the youth of South Africa.”
Since its launch, iSchoolAfrica has reached all nine provinces in South Africa, impacting 341 schools and training over 3,000 teachers — impacting over 100,000 learners. Later this year, in partnership with the Imbeleko Foundation, they plan to launch the first Apple Training Authorised Centre in Africa, located in rural Kwa-Zulu Natal.
Key Educational Programmes
iSchoolAfrica is focused on four key educational programmes. These include:
1. Early Learning
Recognising the critical importance of a child's early years, iSchoolAfrica integrates technology into preschool and Grade R to help teachers address core developmental skills essential for young learners. The Early Learning Programme supports the NCF and CAPS curriculum frameworks through interactive social stories and learn-through-play activities.
2. Numeracy and Literacy
iSchoolAfrica addresses South Africa's literacy and numeracy crisis by ensuring learners grasp foundational skills. Partnering with the Unlocking Talent Through Technology Initiative, iSchoolAfrica brings the one billion numeracy programme to primary schools, achieving an average increase of 15% in numeracy results since 2009.
3. Disability and Inclusion
The Inclusion Programme provides solutions for children with various disabilities, including autism, low vision, and cerebral palsy. With 36 special needs schools, iSchoolAfrica has the distinction of having the first Apple Distinguished Special Needs School in the world. Collaborations with CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA and CORE have also helped introduce iPads to hospital schools in Gauteng, supporting paediatric oncology patients' education during treatment.
“We have seen a total change in the nature of our learners. They have become a lot more disciplined, creative and enthusiastic. Our kids now have a sense of pride. It empowers them,” says Ishwarlal Reggie, Deputy Principal, MCK Special School.
4. Coding and Robotics
Empowering learners to become innovators, leaders, and builders of their futures, iSchoolAfrica introduces coding and robotics through Apple's Everyone Can Code Curriculum. This program, spanning from ECD to higher education, exposes learners to coding and app design via interactive puzzles and code walkthroughs.
“As iSchoolAfrica celebrates this milestone, our commitment to educational excellence and reducing inequalities remains stronger than ever. We look forward to continuing this journey of empowering South Africa's youth and transforming the educational landscape for years to come,” concludes Lissoos.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of iSchoolAfrica.
NOTE TO EDITORS
MEDIA CONTACT:
Ima Peter
+27 11 268 6388
ima.peter@razorpr.co.za
About iSchoolAfrica:
Since 2009, iSchoolAfrica has provided over 100 000 South African learners, from ECD to Grade 12, with state-of-the-art technology and education practices. Together with our partners, school leaders and educators, we have changed teaching and learning in the most under resourced and vulnerable communities across South Africa, giving youth the opportunity to learn, create and succeed.
Impact and Awards
· Active in nine provinces
· 341 schools in the programme
· 300+ trained teachers
· 200+ rural youth facilitators
· 500+ trained media changemakers
• 22 Excellence in Education Awards
• 2023 Foundation Disability Empowerment Award
• 2023 Gauteng Women's Excellence Award for Innovation
• 2018 New Generation Award
• 2017 Eduweek Award, Inclusion
Programmes
• Early Learning
• Numeracy and Literacy
• Disability and Inclusion
• Coding and Robotics
• Media Changemaker
South Africa is currently experiencing rapid urbanisation, with 63% of the population already residing in urban areas, a figure projected to rise (https://apo-opa.co/3Yt1Azg) to 71% by 2030. By 2050, it is estimated that eight out of every 10 people in the country will live in urban areas. As a consequence, the demand for basic infrastructure and essential services will significantly increase.
While urbanisation is a worldwide development, the growth rate is the fastest in Africa. By 2035, half of its population (https://apo-opa.co/4d151l7) will be living in cities and urban areas. But so far, it has largely translated into rising informal establishments, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, increasing poverty and inequality.
One of the most pressing issues is the dire state of the architectural profession in the region with too few skills on hand.
“As the demand for proper urban planning and development escalates, so does the need for skilled and competent architects who can contribute to sustainable and inclusive cities. However, the current state of the profession is cause for concern, with various obstacles hindering its progress. One of the most significant challenges is the housing crisis, which creates complex issues for architects,” says Devi Paulsen-Abbott at Energy Capital & Power.
The ever-growing urban population has put immense pressure on the limited housing options available, resulting in a dire need for affordable and sustainable solutions. Architects have a crucial role to play in developing innovative and sustainable housing options for all citizens.
“These are the professionals who possess the skills, knowledge, and creativity to design and build the spaces we live and work in. They have the potential to transform our cities and shape them into liveable, inclusive, and sustainable environments. However, the current state of the architectural profession in Southern Africa is hindering its ability to fulfil this critical role,” Paulsen-Abbott states.
Another big challenge facing the local architectural profession is the lack of collaboration between the public and private sectors, she says. “The development of our cities requires a joint effort from both these sectors, but there is a significant disconnect between them.”
As a result, many projects are abandoned, delayed, or poorly executed, leading to subpar living conditions for citizens. Paulsen-Abbott explains that this disconnect also stems from the inadequate recognition and support for the architectural profession. “Despite its crucial role in shaping our built environment, architecture is often undervalued and underfunded by the public sector,” she says. “This results in a lack of resources and opportunities for architects to develop their skills and push the boundaries of innovation in design.”
To address these pressing issues, the upcoming Architecture South Africa Conference (AZA24) (https://ArchitectureZA.org.za/) is a much-needed event. Bringing together over 50 experts under the theme "Where Architecture Meets... US/ PLANET/ FUTURE..." the conference promises to be an insightful and thought-provoking exploration of the dynamic relationship between architecture, humanity and sustainability.
This highly anticipated event, hosted by the SA Institute of Architects (SAIA), Gauteng Institute for Architecture (GIFA), and University of Johannesburg (UJ), will take place from 4-7 September 2024 on the UJ campus.
AZA Convener, Daniel van der Merwe, says: “This conference is a vital opportunity for the architectural profession to come together, collaborate, and find solutions to the challenges facing our cities. By bridging the gap between the public and private sectors, architects can work towards creating more liveable and sustainable cities for all.”
AZA will also serve as a platform for architects to showcase their innovative designs and ideas, encouraging further growth and development within the profession.
“As citizens, we must also realize the importance of the architectural profession in creating a better future for us all. We must demand that our governments prioritise urban planning and development, and allocate sufficient resources and support for the architectural profession,” van der Merwe says.
“The Architecture South Africa Conference AZA 2024 is a call for united action. We know the challenges South Africa faces, lack of sufficient housing, spatial inequality and ailing infrastructure. As architects our ultimate goal is to improve the lives of the end users of the spaces we design, inclusive of everyone in our beautiful country. AZA looks to open the discourse on how we can achieve this. Bringing together thought leaders to empower us all for a bright future,” notes Claire McCusker, President 2024/25 of SA Institute of Architecture (SAIA).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
About SAIA:
The South African Institute of Architects (SAIA) (https://SAIA.org.za/) is a voluntary association for Professional Architects. SAIA's mission is to act as the collective voice serving the interests of its members in pursuit of excellence and responsible design. It aims to uphold the dignity of the architectural profession and contribute meaningfully to the enhancement of society and the environment. The fundamental principles of equality and justice are implicit in our Constitution. SAIA incorporates the nine existing regional institutes: Border-Kei [Eastern Cape], CIfA [Western Cape], Eastern Cape, Free State, GIfA [Gauteng], KZNIA [KwaZulu-Natal], Limpopo, Mpumalanga and PIA [Gauteng].
About GIfA:
The Gauteng Institute for Architecture (GIfA) (www.GIfA.org.za/) boasts a rich legacy, tracing its roots back to 1900 as the Transvaal Institute of Architects. Today, we're dedicated to nurturing architectural excellence and raising awareness of the built environment. Our focused committees explore specific topics, addressing both current and historical issues. Moreover, we offer extensive training and development opportunities to members, ensuring continuous professional growth. Through collaborative endeavors and innovative initiatives, GIfA remains at the forefront of architectural advancement, enriching our profession and the communities we serve in the greater Johannesburg area.
About University of Johannesburg:
At the Department of Architecture (https://apo-opa.co/3YlLbg4), our vision is to become the leading school of architecture on the sub-continent via the pursuit of alternative, progressive, and critical spatial practices. We continually strive to be the embodiment of a design-led school of architecture by exploring the making of contextually responsive and appropriately built environments. Our mission is to broaden the scope of architecture through collaborative processes of innovative design, research, and making. We define our identity as a school of architecture that encourages teaching philosophies and a design-studio culture closely related to the changing nature of contemporary cities, specifically Johannesburg, the city which gives our university its name. We achieve this mission by integrating the physical, theoretical, field, and design studio.
About Energy Capital & Power:
Energy Capital & Power (ECP) ECP (https://EnergyCapitalPower.com) is the leading Africa-focused global energy investment platform. Through events, advisory work, news, online content and investment reports, ECP unites the entire energy value chain – from oil and gas exploration to renewable power generation – and facilitates global and intra-Africa investment and collaboration. ECP is committed to bringing together like-minded people with the common objective of facilitating the critical investments that will power Africa's economies, build communities and shape societies. ECP is the place to meet dealmakers and make deals. The company covers the whole value chain of the energy sector: oil and gas, power generation, infrastructure, renewable energy, mining, energy infrastructure, investment and finance and government.
This year’s International Marimba and Steelpan Festival featured a record 2,300 musicians from across South Africa and neighbouring countries
What makes a spot truly Instagrammable? It’s not just about beautiful landscapes or stunning architecture, it’s about capturing unique picture-perfect moments that transport viewers to another world with a single glimpse. The KZN Midlands Meander is set in the heart of the province and offers not only a picturesque countryside dotted with charming farms, but …
South Africans have been through the wringer the last few years, with Covid-19, crazy weather, and riots compounding existing challenges. But South Africans are tenacious, and these hard times have revealed some incredible Community Heroes who deserve to be rewarded – and Society Cappuccinos is here to do just that! “South Africans have always been …
The online platform built by RecoMed for Discovery Vitality makes booking health checks and vaccines as simple as a few clicks. • Discovery Vitality members can book their flu vaccine at more than 1,000 locations • Users can find their nearest Discovery Vitality accredited centre and make an instant booking for either a Vitality Health …
Earlier this year, we launched our Taste Explorers Cookbook in collaboration with renowned registered dietitian Dr. Monique Piderit. Packed with over 25 nutritious recipes, it helps parents create healthy and delicious school lunches and dinners for their kids. Building on this success and driven by the shocking statistics of childhood obesity in South Africa, B-well …
In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, the demand for personalised learning experiences has never been higher. There has been a rise in the tutoring company sector for academic learners. Traditional classroom settings often fail to meet the individual needs of students, leading to gaps in understanding and academic performance. This is where the role of …