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Regent Business School alumnus Denagran Reddy, has been recognised as the Emerging Educator of the Year in the prestigious Ed Falcon Global Awards at the EdTalk World Conference held on 22 and 23 February 2024 in New Delhi, India. Reddy’s achievement underscores the pivotal role Regent Business School plays in nurturing outstanding educators and shaping …
Mashatile officiates launch of North West service delivery programme
Deputy President Paul Mashatile will today officiate the launch of Phase 3 of the Accelerated Service Delivery – Thuntsha Lerole Programme in Tlhabane, Rustenburg.
The Thuntsha Lerole Programme is an initiative led by the North West provincial government aimed at confronting the critical issue of service delivery in communities, through strengthened partnerships with government, the private sector as well as civil society organisations.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has assigned Deputy President Mashatile to assist in the rollout of the District Development Model (DDM) through effective coordination of the different spheres of government, which will improve the functioning of municipalities and address community service delivery concerns.
In September last year, the country’s second-in-command, visited the community of Seking village, in the greater Taung Local Municipality to assess the intervention strategies aimed at addressing service delivery challenges in the area.
“This successful visit offered the opportunity for the Deputy President to engage with government departments, from local municipalities to national government, on efforts to accelerate service delivery in a more effective and coordinated manner,” the Presidency explained.
Meanwhile, the Deputy President will commence his visit to the Rustenburg Local Municipality, by officiating the official handover of the newly built Seraleng Primary School in Paardekraal.
The provincial government constructed the primary school to the tune of about R26.5 million. Its infrastructure includes a science laboratory, a computer room, a nutrition centre, 15 multipurpose classrooms and an administration block, amongst others.
The school, the Presidency said, will contribute to government efforts to increase access to basic education and further promote the culture of learning, teaching and service.
Deputy President Mashatile will visit the Tlhabane Community Health Centre to unveil a state-of-the-art X-ray machine, which is expected to bring much-needed relief to patients in the local community, who were travelling some great distance to access healthcare services.
“Furthermore, as part of efforts to bring lasting solutions to the dire challenge of sewer blockages and leaks around the Boitekong area, outside Rustenburg, the Deputy President will witness the handover of a newly completed sewer network project,” the statement read.
He will also hand over a site to the appointed service provider for the commencement of a water and sewer project, which will benefit the community of Tlhabane township.
“Deputy President Mashatile will address a community meeting at Tlhabane Stadium after concluding his visit to the Rustenburg Municipality.”
The Presidency described the feedback session as an important gathering that will provide a platform for leadership to brief members of the community, on several other government services to be delivered as part of the Thuntsha Lerole Programme.
The Acting Premier of the North West, Nono Maloyi, Deputy Minister of Health Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, the Deputy Minister of Police Cassel Mathale, and members of the North West Provincial Executive Council as well as senior government officials will support the Deputy President. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 03/15/2024 - 10:02
No teaching at Ikhala College campuses due to demonstrations over NSFAS allowances
Cabinet welcomes 29 May as date for General Elections
Cabinet has welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s proclamation of 29 May 2024 as the date for the General Elections, following his consultations with the Electoral Commission of South Africa and all nine provincial Premiers on the state of readiness for the national and provincial elections.
Briefing media on Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni emphasised that Cabinet has called on everyone, especially the youth, to exercise their right to vote.
“Years of untold sacrifice and struggle for our freedom culminated in the right to vote for the majority of South Africans in 1994. Our struggle for freedom secured the right for every South African to be active participants in our democratic system.
“This year’s elections coincide with the celebration of 30 Years of Freedom, which is a significant milestone for South Africa, as it provides us with the opportunity to reflect on our successes and also look for solutions to address our surmountable challenges,” the Minister said.
READ | Landmark election marks 30 years of electoral democracy
Presidential eThekwini Working Group
Cabinet has also noted President Ramaphosa’s meeting, which was held last Friday with the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry to discuss various initiatives, led by national government, to assist the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality to address the current water, electricity and infrastructure challenges.
“The President also established the Presidential eThekwini Working Group to accelerate the speedy resolution of issues affecting the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality. The group – comprising Ministers, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality and business officials – will regularly present progress reports to the President,” Cabinet said.
14th Policy Dialogue Forum (PDF) of the International Task Force on Teachers for Education
Cabinet has further noted the country’s successful hosting of the 14th PDF of the International Task Force on Teachers for Education in Sandton, Johannesburg, on Monday, 26 February.
The event brought together education stakeholders from across the globe to foster advocacy, knowledge exchange and the monitoring of progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 4 on quality education.
The Policy Dialogue Forum released a High-Level Panel Report on the Teaching Profession and also launched the Global Report on teacher shortages. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 12:05
Themed around ‘Enriching your curriculum', the Schools Now! 2024 conference equipped educators and decision-makers with the tools, insights and actionable strategies necessary to enhance the educational experience for students worldwide; Education experts from around the world presented innovations and case studies in leadership, well-being and safeguarding approaches and the integration of technology in digital learning.
The conference focused on empowering subject experts within the school community to drive curriculum development and delivery; The conference delved into how educators can navigate the rise of AI and where it intersects with Africa's digital divide.
Due to technological advances and the advent of AI, Sub-Saharan Africa's education sector is undergoing rapid transformation. Educators must adapt to these new ways of working to foster important skills such as critical thinking.
While this offers opportunity, challenges also arise, such as the digital divide – a pressing issue in Africa – and the need for more comprehensive teacher training. Collaboration between stakeholders is essential to ensure equitable access to education.
With a view to enabling enhanced learning outcomes in schools, British Council's Schools Now! 2024 was held over three days in Cape Town, South Africa from 27-29 February 2024. The conference was attended by over 1000 school leaders both onsite and virtually, and served as a platform for fostering collaboration, sharing best practices and insights in international education.
The themes included digital learning, leadership, well-being, and safeguarding, adding to a rich internationalised and contextualised curriculum. Through a series of engaging keynote sessions, immersive workshops, and panel discussions, delegates explored innovative teaching approaches, curriculum enrichment strategies, and the integration of technology in education.
Martin Lowder, Head of Global Exams Services, The British Council, shared, ‘The spirit of Schools Now! is to establish global connections within the educational community, exploring insights and innovations in international education. By addressing emerging themes, we aim to empower educators to navigate the complexities of the shifting education landscape and drive positive outcomes for students.'
British Council Sub Saharan Africa, Regional Exams Director, Keshav Sreedharan, said: ‘British Council's Schools Now 2024 conference was organised in Sub-Saharan Africa for the first time since its inception. Against the backdrop of Africa's potential, particularly with its dynamic and driven young population, this conference holds the promise of unlocking new opportunities and pathways for schools adopting the UK curriculum. The vibrancy of Cape Town will ignite conversations and initiatives that will shape the future of education in Sub-Saharan Africa.'
The opening keynote session by Victoria Pendry, CEO of the Curriculum Foundation, aimed at empowering schools to develop, monitor, and evaluate an enriched curriculum. She highlighted that, ‘In a rapidly changing world, if learners are to develop resilience, creativity and the essential skills of collaboration, the curriculum must be ambitious and enriched with local and global narratives that excite imaginations and inspire curiosity.'
Her presentation explored the interconnected nature of digital learning, leadership, well-being, and safeguarding as a foundation for quality and equitable education. She summarised how ‘a curriculum that is rich in respect for the past, eager to consider preferred futures and committed to exploring different perspectives, will drive positive outcomes beyond the classroom'.
Other distinguished speakers included, Dr Funke Baffour-Awuah, Head of Well-being Division and Child Protection Lead, Al Rayan International School, Ghana, Kathleen O'Hare, British Council Education Consultant, Pamela O`Brien, Deputy Head and Jo Parkes, Deputy Head Academic from British Council School in Madrid, and adding to a rich and diverse perspective.
Tatiana Popa, Deputy Academic Director, Heritage International School, Moldova, an ISC International Education Influencer of 2023, delivered a session for virtual delegates, on ‘Digital learning', focussing on the use of AI in schools and how this will impact all areas of work, educational tools, teaching practice and much more.
An expert panel on ‘AI in Education' comprising of Kudzayi Tarisayi, Senior Lecturer, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, Reham Ali, Director of Middle and High School Education, Nermine Ismail International Schools, Egypt and Jo Parkes discussed valuable tips into how schools can ensure students are prepared for future needs dictated through the use of AI. It was eye-opening to see nearly 90% of conference delegates voice AI as a friend, not foe, signalling widespread optimism towards AI's potential benefits.
Dr Funke's keynote addressed how to ‘Develop a Well-being Framework for a Thriving School Community through the lens of ‘A Curriculum-Centred Approach.' She stressed on how ‘Integrating wellbeing into the curriculum promotes a thriving school community: By intentionally incorporating wellbeing into the curriculum, schools can create a holistic learning environment that supports the mental, emotional, and physical health of students.'
A series of workshops discussed practical aspects of implementing key learnings through a range of key thematic areas such as, ‘Leadership Synergy: Peer Coaching & Empowering Your Success' and ‘What is an innovative curriculum in an exam focussed school context' to name a few. These workshops provided school leaders with engagement tools in support of enriching the curriculum so that communities are inspired and committed to helping learners to acquire transferable skills such as problem solving and critical thinking, teamwork and communication, particularly in multi-cultural realities.
Jo Parkes' led a workshop on curriculum, reinforcing ‘the importance of reading as a fundamental aspect to an enriched curriculum. Establishing reading as the backbone of the curriculum is enormously effective but sadly often overlooked.'
Another key focus of the conference was safeguarding, recognising the importance of school community wellbeing and safety within the learning environment. Pamela O`Brien, in her workshop on ‘Developing school practices to ensure safeguarding and wellbeing of students' shared, ‘Safeguarding and wellbeing are intertwined. Creating a safe environment is key and includes not only complying with relevant laws and standards but also identifying school practices which promote the wellbeing of children and act as protective factors.'
She shared case studies from the British Council School, Madrid where ‘Policies, systems and procedures have led to consistency and best practice. We can only say a policy, or a system is working if we see it in practice and the entire school community plays their part.'
The conference also provided British Council's Action Research Grants recipients from Partner Schools the opportunity to share valuable findings from their respective research areas. A thought-provoking session by Amira Soliman Awaad, Director of Curriculum and Instruction from Dr. Nermien Ismail International Schools in Egypt showcased how ‘Digitized Blended Learning Methods' such as the ‘Flipped Classroom' and ‘Exit Tickets' save class time and yield real-time intervention data, translating them into needed interventions for struggling students or requirements for increased rigour in the curricula.'
Schools are managing a variety of changes and development, and the British Council supports our Partner Schools to approach new challenges through training, guidance and encouraging collaborative practice. As education continues to evolve in response to the changing needs of learners, the Schools Now! conference plays a crucial role in driving progress and innovation within the sector. By harnessing the collective expertise and passion of school leaders and decision makers, the conference serves as a catalyst for transformative change, ultimately enriching the educational experiences of students worldwide.
By championing safety and well-being, embracing technological advancements, and leadership in schools, and thereby promoting an enriched curriculum, the outcomes of Schools Now! Conference focused on empowering educators to create engaging, student-centred learning environments that prepare learners for success in the 21st century and beyond.
Key takeaways from the event will be available on the Schools Now! website page: https://apo-opa.co/48AabS7
British Council South Africa Country Director, George Barrett, said: ‘British Council Partner Schools programme supports over 40 Partner Schools in South Africa and 785 in Sub Saharan Africa to deliver UK International School Qualifications on behalf of UK awarding bodies. Our educational support enables schools to enhance the learning experience for students, improving educational outcomes and giving young people in the region access to international opportunities.'
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of British Council.
For media enquiries, please contact: Susan Amu, Regional Head of Communications at susan.amu@britishcouncil.org.
About Schools Now! 2024:
British Council's Schools Now! is a global conference that fosters educational innovation across our global community of over 2,500 British Council Partner Schools spread across over 40 countries. The conference is aimed at educational professionals who wish to learn more about key areas of international education, share their ideas and experiences, and network with like-minded peers. The conference connects over 300 delegates face to face with a further 2,000 virtual attendees from around the world. The Schools Now! 2024 conference was held at The Westin, Cape Town, on 27-29 February 2024.
For more information visit https://apo-opa.co/48AabS7
About British Council Partner Schools:
A trusted education partner, we help improve the quality of education, supporting learners worldwide to achieve their potential through access to life changing UK education and qualifications.
The British Council supports a global community of over 2500 Partner Schools, to enhance the learning experience, improving educational outcomes. We create global connections within the educational community to support professional pathways for educators, enable enriched learning journeys and prepare students for the future. We support our Partner Schools to deliver globally trusted UK International School Qualifications, in over 40 countries transforming the lives of over 250,000 students every year.
For more information, please visit https://apo-opa.co/49z4XHD
Keep updated by following British Council Partner Schools LinkedIn https://apo-opa.co/4bV9xBC
About the British Council:
We support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide.
We uniquely combine the UK's deep expertise in arts and culture, education and the English language, our global presence and relationships in over 100 countries, our unparalleled access to young people and influencers and our creative sparkle.
We work directly with individuals to help them gain the skills, confidence and connections to transform their lives and shape a better world in partnership with the UK. We support them to build networks and explore creative ideas, to learn English, to get a high-quality education and to gain internationally recognised qualifications.
We work with governments and our partners in the education, English language and cultural sectors, in the UK and globally. Working together we make a bigger difference, creating benefit for millions of people all over the world.
We work with people in over 200 countries and territories and are on the ground in more than 100 countries. In 2022–23 we reached 600 million people.
For more information, please visit: www.BritishCouncil.org. You can also keep in touch with the British Council through https://apo-opa.co/3TiuzmC and https://apo-opa.co/3Tiumzu
B-well is thrilled to announce its partnership with the Sense of Taste Chef School, based in Maitland, Cape Town. The collaboration will see B-well supplying the school and its community feeding programme with the complete range of B-well products, made from homegrown canola. “We are very excited to partner with Sense of Taste,” says Lunique …
Global leaders urged to reverse teacher shortage
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called on global leaders to do whatever it takes to attract bright young minds to join the teaching profession and address the issue of teacher shortages.
“To increase participation in this profession, we should provide competitive compensation and recognise teachers’ achievements,” the Deputy President said on Monday.
The country’s second-in-command is of the view that this could be achieved through the promotion of excellence and creativity and cultivating a sense of pride and purpose among educators.
The Deputy President was speaking at the 14th Policy Dialogue Forum of the International Task Force on Teachers for Education in Illovo, Johannesburg.
The task force is a global platform for education stakeholders, which aims to foster advocacy, knowledge exchange, peer learning and monitoring progress towards Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 on quality education.
“As we gather here today, we are faced with a stark reality, which is a shortage of qualified and motivated teachers across the globe.”
This shortage, the Deputy President said, not only jeopardises the quality of education but also undermines collective efforts to achieve the SDG 4 goal of inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
“Instead of disregarding the situation and continuing as if everything is going according to plan, we need to acknowledge the problem and devise a solution that is both effective and efficient.”
The value of teachers
He also took the time to acknowledge the worth of teachers and the crucial role they play in shaping the future of nations.
Besides teaching and imparting knowledge to the future generation, Deputy President Mashatile said teachers play a crucial role in nurturing, fostering critical thinking, inspiring dreams, and pushing the limits of human potential.
“We thus owe it to these titans of our society to recognise, honour, empower, and value them as well as the job that they do.
“Most importantly, significant consideration must be made on how we should improve their working conditions and remuneration as a way of appreciating their hard work so that they can be able to fulfil their important task without getting discouraged.”
Shifting his focus to the digital age, he believes that governments should ensure that educators can effectively utilise new technologies to remain relevant and efficient in the current digital age.
The Deputy President also expressed his gratitude to the task force for recognising South Africa as a key player in the journey to achieving quality education for all by the year 2030.
“As South Africa, we feel privileged to have been allowed to co-chair the steering committee of the Teacher Task Force in collaboration with Germany.”
Finding solutions
He said he hoped his home country would learn from the good practices that will be shared at this forum.
“South Africa is optimistic that this Policy Dialogue Forum will untangle solutions for addressing the contents of the report.”
He also highlighted the issue of teachers assigned grades for which they have inadequate training and qualifications.
“More teachers are produced for the Further Education and Training (FET) band than for the General Education and Training (GET) band. This situation has necessitated the FET band teachers to migrate to the senior phase and teach Grades 7 and 8 classes.”
However, he said the government is addressing this matter through the Fundza Lushaka Bursary Scheme which aims to attract young teachers into the teaching profession and improve teacher salaries and working conditions and use of contracted teachers to deal with immediate needs.
He also paid tribute to the Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, who was selected to serve on a high-level panel convened by the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, in 2022. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 02/26/2024 - 11:40
By Brandon Govender – Enrolment Manager at Regent Business School In the diverse and dynamic landscape of South Africa, the digital divide is a glaring challenge impeding the progress of educational equity and societal advancement. This divide not only separates communities based on their access to technology but also impacts their ability to develop vital …
Respect your teachers, urges MEC Chiloane
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has urged pupils at Primrose Primary School in Germiston to respect their teachers.
This follows an incident where a Grade 6 boy learner allegedly shot the school principal.
The unfortunate incident occurred on Friday and the principal is still recovering from the gunshot wound in hospital.
Addressing the school’s learners on Monday, Chiloane urged learners to always respect the teaching staff and the school’s management.
He said occurrences of such nature should not take place, especially in the school environment, where it is supposed to be safe, and children should not feel scared.
“…That child did something that shocked all of us. It’s unfortunate what is going to happen because once you do something like this, your future is also compromised.
“The learner has been arrested… You must respect your school principal all the time. You must listen to them because your teachers are your parents in school.
“Once you don’t respect your teachers, it means you do not respect at home,” he said.
Chiloane said the school leadership has assured him that since the incident occurred, they “have been on top of things”.
The children are receiving counselling and support, including the teachers, who are all shaken by the incident.
“As it stands, the child is appearing in court today and the father has been apprehended as well for negligence,” the MEC said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 02/19/2024 - 15:12
Canon Central and North Africa (Canon-CNA.com), a global leader in imaging solutions, is pleased to announce a transformative partnership with MindMe International (MMI), a registered NGO based in Kenya. This collaboration aims to empower marginalized communities through sustainable development, with a focus on fostering positive change in young individuals' lives.
Central to this collaboration is the shared objective of transforming young participants into effective storytellers. The programme's structured approach includes providing access to equipment, teaching photography skills, showcasing examples and case studies, and guiding participants to tell their stories authentically. Upon completion of the programme, participants will be awarded certificates by Canon, to acknowledge their dedication and accomplishments.
“Canon is proud to partner with MindMe International on this impactful initiative, empowering young individuals to become creative storytellers who can authentically represent their communities. Through the Young People Programme, we aim to provide these young talents with the tools and skills needed to make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond,” says Jeanine El Moughrabi, Developing Regions Sustainability Manager
The programme, officially commenced on 8 February 2024, and kicked off with an introductory event on 1 February. MindMe International, dedicated to eradicating extreme poverty through localized development, will work hand in hand with Canon to run a three-month initiative targeting young people between 11 and 17 years. The workshops are being held at Woodcreek School in Kiambu County, Kenya, with 20 participants.
An integral part of the collaboration is the commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through the Young People Programme (YPP), Canon and MindMe International envision empowering the youth to amplify the SDGs through their narratives. The aim is not only to equip young individuals with practical skills but also to inspire them to become advocates for positive change in their respective communities.
With the initiative running for three months, it allows for the outcomes to be accurately monitored to evaluate the programme's success and impact. The program comprises 12 workshops scheduled every Thursday, that commenced on February 8th and will conclude on May 30th, along with the utilization of Canon EOS 4000D cameras.
The culmination of the initiative will be marked by an engaging exhibition showcasing the creative images produced by the young participants. This exhibition will provide a platform for the youth to express themselves creatively and share their unique perspectives on sustainability and community development. Local suppliers in Kenya will be involved in printing toolkits and resource materials for the exhibition, contributing to a positive economic ripple effect and promoting environmental sustainability.
This collaboration builds on the success stories of similar initiatives, such as Kgaugelo Neville Ngomane, a participant in the Young People Programme South Africa, who won the CIWEMs International Young Environmental Photographer of the Year Award. This partnership is poised to create more success stories, scholarships, jobs, and internships for the young participants, emphasizing the potential for meaningful impact.
Carol Kiiru, Director-MindMe International: “MindMe International envisions a world where sustainable development is accessible to all, breaking the chains of extreme poverty. Through our collaboration with Canon in the YPP, we strive to empower marginalized youth, aligned in our Education and Youth (Arts and Digital empowerment) programmes providing them with the tools to tell their stories and advocate for positive change. By fostering creativity, skills, and community engagement, we are aligning with the SDGs and shaping a future where every voice, regardless of background, contributes to building a society free from inequality and poverty.”
Through this partnership, Canon and MindMe International send a powerful message about the significance of empowering young people to be agents of positive change in their communities. Young voices, when equipped with the right skills and platforms, can inspire, and drive social change. In addition, the collaboration serves as an outstanding example of how private and non-profit sectors can work together to contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).
Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com
APO Group - PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com
About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon's business within the Africa region - by strengthening Canon's in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon's commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.
Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa's rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.
Canon's corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.co/3SvVhrS) – ‘living and working together for the common good'. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon's products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.
For more information: Canon-CNA.com
In the aftermath of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address (SoNA), a non-profit company (NPC) working to encourage positive masculinity, Father A Nation, highlights that while strides have been made in combatting gender-based violence (GBV), a glaring deficiency in the 2024 SoNA was the lack of focus on prevention. “President Ramaphosa’s acknowledgment of …
Motshekga calls on everyone to participate in the 2024 SGB Elections
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has called on eligible stakeholders, parents, teachers, non-teaching staff, learners in high schools, and community members to participate and have their say in the upcoming 2024 School Governing Body (SGB) Elections.
Motshekga was speaking during the launch of the 2024 School Governing Body (SGB) Elections Campaign in Pretoria on Monday.
The actual SGB elections will be held from 1 - 31 March 2024 in all ordinary public schools. By law, the department is required to conduct elections for SGBs every three years.
“As we launch this campaign, I call upon each of you, parents, teachers, learners, and community members to join us in this crucial endeavour.
“Engage with the process, educate yourselves and others and most importantly, exercise your right to vote. Your involvement is not just a contribution but a testament to your commitment to the future of our nation's children.
“My call to action today is simple yet powerful: get involved. Whether you choose to stand for election or cast your vote, your contribution holds immense significance. It will not only impact the lives of our children but also shape the future of our nation,” Motshekga said.
She said that research has consistently shown that schools with active SGBs excel across various metrics, including academic performance, learner wellbeing, and community engagement.
She said the correlation between engaged SGBs and school success is undeniable. Schools with high SGB participation report an average 20% higher pass rate than those with lower engagement.
Additionally, the Minister said that incidents of vandalism and truancy decrease significantly in schools with active governing bodies.
“These are not just numbers; they are compelling evidence of the power of active participation. Our vision is for every school to harness this potential, translating active governance into tangible outcomes for our children.
“Therefore, our campaign, ‘Empower, Engage, Educate’, aims to catalyse a shift. With a multifaceted strategy leveraging both digital and traditional media, we intend to reach every corner of our society. From rural townships to bustling urban centres, our message is clear: your voice shapes the future,” she said.
Sharing information
Motshekga told the media briefing that the campaign will provide comprehensive resources on the roles and significance of SGBs, the election process, and how every individual can contribute.
Workshops, informational pamphlets, and an interactive website will serve as conduits for this essential knowledge.
Motshekga said there will be a dialogue to foster understanding. The campaign will initiate conversations across communities, creating platforms for questions, discussions and sharing ideas.
The Minister said these dialogues will bridge gaps, dispel myths and build a shared vision for schools.
She said this is a moment that not only reflects the department’s commitment to democratic values but also underscores the collective responsibility towards the future of basic education in South Africa.
Building stronger schools
By law, School Governing Bodies are the backbone of school communities. They ensure schools are not merely institutions of learning but beacons of hope, character, and community spirit.
“Their impact is profound and far-reaching, with roles encompassing financial management, policy formulation, and staff appointment.
“In the coming months, we embark on a collective journey to shape the future of our education system, brick by democratic brick.
“As we approach these elections, we are reminded of the significance of active participation. The vibrancy of our democracy is mirrored in the engagement of our school communities,” Motshekga said.
The Minister further acknowledged the stark reality of past participation rates, which have not matched the department’s aspirations.
Despite the undeniable importance of SGBs, she said the turnout has lingered at around the 40% mark. “This is not just a missed opportunity; it's a call to action.”
The Minister emphasised that SGBs serve as a vital link, fostering understanding and collaboration between schools and the communities they serve.
“As we celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2023, weathering turbulent waters yet emerging with hope, their success speaks volumes.
“In KwaZulu-Natal, where we witnessed a remarkable improvement in results, the unwavering support of SGBs played a pivotal role. This is a testament to the immense power of active and engaged school communities,” the Minister said.
Motshekga emphasised that the upcoming elections carry immense weight because they represent not just an exercise in democracy but an opportunity for parents, educators, and community members to join hands and contribute to improving schools.
“With this responsibility comes a clarion call: it's time to raise our voices and shape the education we envision for our children. Transparency and inclusivity are our guiding principles to ensure every voice is heard.
“The Department of Basic Education stands firmly committed to conducting these elections with unwavering integrity,” she said.
Throughout this month, the Department of Basic Education will share detailed information on the electoral process, nomination procedures, and critical dates.
The department is committed to ensuring that these elections are a model of democracy and accountability. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 12:50
There was the sound of happy, raised voices as learners at an Adopt-a-School Foundation school in Hammanskraal recited out loud from their favourite books. World Read Aloud Day has special meaning for Lot Phalatse Primary School in the North West, where a literacy and numeracy programme has been taking place since October 2022, funded by …
The freeze was recommended by National Treasury among other austerity measures
Drug and alcohol rehabilitation centres offer various services to support recovery. The 12-step program is a well-established approach in treating addiction. For individualised care, individual therapy and group therapy are key components. Inpatient treatment provides a structured and supportive environment, while medically assisted detox ensures safe withdrawal from substances. Holistic approaches, such as holistic therapy and …
As millions of South African learners head back to school. One of the biggest lessons they need to learn in life to help them succeed is financial literacy, which needs to be first taught from home. says Stian de Witt, executive head of financial planning at NMG Benefits. A Cambridge University study suggests that by …
There were no tears as confident five and six-year-olds kicked off Day One of Grade R in what will be their 12-year journey through school. There to wish them well were members of the Adopt-a-School Foundation (AAS), a partner entity of Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation. The Foundation will follow their progress and celebrate their successes while …
By Dr Shahiem Patel – Dean of Regent Business School The future is becoming increasingly difficult to think about, let alone plan for. The vital need for education systems in South Africa to improve and meet the pressing needs of society and our economy only compound this difficulty. The rate at which technology is developing …
A delegation of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education undertook a two-day oversight visit to schools in Kwa-Zulu Natal to assess their readiness for the 2024 academic year. The delegation visited five schools in the uThukela and uMzinyathi education districts over this period and engaged with several stakeholders in the education sector.
The leader of the delegation, Ms Nombuyiselo Adoons, said the delegation focused on areas that included infrastructure, ablution facilities, monitoring of Grade R/early childhood development sites as per the 2022 departmental migration shift; delivery of learner-teacher support material; nutrition, learner transport, special schools support, and meeting with stakeholders to discuss the state of schooling in 2024.
Ms Adoons said several schools that the delegation visited had been damaged by floods and strong winds and they are in need of repairs. She said the temporary measures have been put in place to alleviate the immediate challenges they are facing. “We must commend the provincial department for the speedy action in assisting the schools. However, we realised that this will now impact further on the budget – most probably that of infrastructure and repairs that were planned,” she said.
The delegation commended Muntuza Primary School for its excellent performance. It is a full service school with Grade R facilities and have been piloted for Robotics and Coding. “The school is doing well. The school is clean. It is one of the models that other schools can learn from,” said Ms Adoons.
At Njeza High School the delegation found that the roof of some buildings had been blown off by storms. “It was not in a good shape but mobile classrooms are in place to alleviate the situation. We are grateful for this as it means teaching and learning is not affected.” She said the delegation further noted some pit toilets. However, a contractor was on site and in the process of eradicating the “inappropriate ablution” facilities.
Ngibongeleni High School and Sihayo Technical Comprehensive School have challenges with fluctuating Grade 12 results. “It's like a yo-yo effect. We recommended intervention to assist the schools and it clearly has the potential to improve.”
The delegation also visited Pro Nobis Special School that cater mostly for learners on the autism spectrum. It noted that the school has adequate infrastructure even though it needs some refurbishment or upgrades. The provincial department indicated that new scholar transport will reach the school by the end of February as it is being fitted for the specifications for learners with special needs.
According to her common challenges they noted at many schools they visited were high electricity and water bills, vandalism and burglaries due to lack of security. “Firstly, we would like to appeal to the communities to assist with this. This impacts your children's education and future. Security manpower means extra expenses that could have gone towards the education of our learners. Let's stand together and stand up against criminality in our schools,” stressed Ms Adoons.
The oversight visit was concluded with a meeting with stakeholders, including the MEC for education in the province. Ms Adoons said: “All our concerns over the two days were noted and responded to. The provincial department of basic education indicated that it has been impacted by budget cuts from National Treasury.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Basic Education: Republic of South Africa.
Farm school has no scholar transport for about 80 keen learners
Matrics of 2023 make history!
The Matric Class of 2023 have achieved a pass rate of 82.9% - the highest pass rate in the history of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.
More than 890 000 full-time and part-time candidates sat for the matric exams administered by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) at the end of 2023.
At the release of the 2023 National Senior Certificate examination results on Thursday, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga said 572 983 candidates passed the 2023 NSC exams.
“It should be noted that while the pass rate of the 2023 NSC exams in number is the second highest in the history of the NSC exams, when expressed as a percentage, the pass rate of the 2023 NSC exams is the highest in the history of the NSC so far. This represents 572 983 candidates who passed the 2023 NSC exams.
“When expressed in number, it is the second highest pass rate in the history of the NSC examinations. The Class of 2023's achievement is an improvement of 2.8% and 6.5% from the pass rates achieved by the Classes of 2022 and 2021, respectively,” the Minister said.
The Minister commended the improvement of the education sector over the past 10 years, with Grade 12 learners notably achieving an 80.1% pass rate in 2022, and 76.4% in 2021.
The provincial rankings for the 2023 results are as follows:
Achievements
The Class of 2023 also scored the highest Bachelor passes – which allow candidates to apply for university Bachelor’s degree studies – in the history of the NSC, with 40.9% of candidates attaining that achievement.
Diploma level passes stand at some 27.2% of candidates. Higher Certificates are at 14.8%, while those who passed with a National Senior Certificate stands at 0.01%.
Motshekga praised the Class of 2023 for defying what she called “astronomical challenges” – including the COVID-19 pandemic during their high school years - to reach the milestone.
“There is no doubt that the basic education system has begun to reach the desired stability, which is healthy for a large and important system as ours.
“The unquestionable resilience our school community has shown against such a devastating pandemic and other challenges, such as sporadic service delivery protests, the floods in some provinces, violence, and the general moral decadence, such as alcohol and substance abuse, cannot go by unnoticed,” she said.
The Minister emphasised that the improved pass rate is a clear indication that cooperation from all spheres of the sector can enable learners to perform at their best.
“Clearly, the system cannot survive without the direct involvement of all communities of trust, not only those who are part of the sector, but everyone.
“The Class of 2023 has clearly demonstrated that with all requisite support and intervention programmes, we can make it. We must prioritise our interventions on teaching and learning losses. Support and intervention programmes must be implemented across the system,” Motshekga said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 01/18/2024 - 20:58
Cameroon is at the forefront of a significant data revolution in Central Africa, with big data driving innovation, informing decision-making, and fueling economic growth. This has established the country as a recognized hub for data science professionals, with recognition from both the public and private sectors. However, the demand for skilled big data professionals in …
Matric 2023 learners can access results on Matric Results Online System
The Gauteng Department of e-Government has urged learners who wrote their matric exams last year to use the Matric Results Online System to access their results.
The matric results for the National Senior Certificate exams are expected to be released on Friday, 19 January, while the ministerial announcement on the results will be made on Thursday, 18 January.
The Gauteng MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, e-Government, Research and Development, Mzi Khumalo, said the system empowers learners.
“The Matric Results Online System is a testament to our commitment to harnessing the power of technology to enhance our education system. We believe in this case that technology not only facilitates access to information but also empowers learners to make informed decisions about the success of their education.
“This initiative aligns with our broader vision of creating a transparent and accessible education system. By providing instant access to matriculation results, we are fostering a culture of openness and accountability within our education sector,” Khumalo said.
The department explained that the digital platform provides “easy access to matriculation examination results for learners, parents, and educators alike”.
The platform can be accessed at https://results.gauteng.gov.za/.
“The Matric Results Online System is a user-friendly platform that allows learners to conveniently access their matric results on their smartphones or other digital devices as soon as the results are out.
“It is a safe platform to use and also offers insightful data analytics, allowing learners to track their performance trends over multiple examinations.
“Parents and guardians can also utilise the app to access their children's results, fostering a more collaborative and supportive approach to education. Additionally, educators can use the platform to gain valuable insights into the performance of their learners, enabling them to tailor teaching strategies to address specific needs,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 01/17/2024 - 11:47
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