NPA to seize property belonging to PRASA fraudster
Former engineering head Daniel Mtimkulu had his salary more than doubled after fraudulently claiming a doctorate and a job offer from a German firm
Technology
High performance and innovation the hallmarks of Road Car and Supercar category
JP van der Walt set to defend his triple King of the Hill crown in Road Car and Supercar category in Porsche 911 Turbo S Official entries from Suzuki, BMW and Mercedes-Benz feature the latest petrol, hybrid and alternative energy-powered vehicles Category covers everything from hot hatchbacks to muscle cars and high-powered supercars – from […]
Emphasis placed on investing in climate-resilient infrastructure projects
Emphasis placed on investing in climate-resilient infrastructure projects
While South Africa has taken meaningful steps to invest in infrastructure projects, Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr David Masondo, says the fiscus cannot afford to financially support the amount of investment required for climate-resilient infrastructure.
“We therefore need to discuss other innovative financing mechanisms such as green bonds and carbon credit to fund these climate-resilient infrastructure projects,” Masondo said on Monday in Johannesburg.
He made these remarks during the second in a series of Southern Africa – Towards Inclusive Economic Development (SA-TIED) policy dialogues entitled “Financing infrastructure development in the context of climate change”.
“In South Africa, we feel the negative impact of climate change in important sectors such as agriculture, water, and energy. The frequency of natural disasters and the results thereof are felt every day in our country.
“Investments in renewable energy sources, water conservation systems, and sustainable urban development are key to mitigating and adapting to climate impacts,” the Deputy Minister said.
Masondo said the Infrastructure Fund is a testament to South Africa’s commitment to stimulating infrastructure investment and blending public and private financing to build a better, more sustainable future.
“The Infrastructure Fund stands out as a pivotal move, designed to stimulate investment across various critical sectors. This approach seeks to mobilise public and private resources, mitigate risks for private investors and foster an environment where collaborative financing models can thrive.
“Such measures are part of a broader effort to ensure that infrastructure development not only supports South Africa's immediate economic needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term resilience and progress.
“Yes, challenges exist such as securing funding. However, ensuring sustainability, and integrating the latest technologies are other additional challenges. These challenges should be treated as opportunities for innovation and forging robust public-private partnerships. This is also an opportunity for leveraging the power of technology in our infrastructure development goals,” Masondo said.
He said the groundbreaking research produced by the SA-TIED program has shed light on critical areas like water, and energy, and the broader connections between them.
“It is this type of research that directly shapes our infrastructure strategies, informing decisions to maximise impact and create the conditions for sustainable growth. The research informs our policy decision-making. It is this type of research that directly shapes our infrastructure strategies, informing decisions to maximize impact and create the conditions for sustainable growth,” the Deputy Minister said.
He said infrastructure development is the cornerstone of any thriving economy.
“Infrastructure fuels productivity (e.g. people arrive late to work because public transport is poor). Infrastructure also enhances the quality of life for our citizens (clean air, and clean water are important for our health) and lays the foundation for long-term growth.
“Our government recognises this. We have made significant investments in critical infrastructure. These investments are not just about roads and bridges. They are also about creating jobs, reducing poverty, and making South Africa a competitive player in the global economy,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 09:36
611 views
Driving tech integration to accelerate business growth
In today’s digital-first landscape, businesses across diverse sectors from B2B enterprises to healthcare, retail, and e-commerce are ardently seeking technological synergies that not only streamline operations but also carve a path for competitive superiority. Does that sound like a business? How intelligently any chain links together dictates its strength. There isn’t the space for weak …
LG’s New OLED TV with Zero Connect technology redefines freedom to design your space
LG Electronics introduced its 77-inch LG OLED M3, the world’s first consumer TV with Zero Connect technology, a wireless solution capable of real-time video and audio transmission at up to 4K 120Hz, at an event held at The Digital Experience in Johannesburg on 14th March. (1.Power cable connection to both the TV screen and Zero …
Trina Solar, SOLA and Wilson Bayly Holmes Ovcon (WBHO) Signed Partnership to Launch 195MW Springbok Utility Project Using Vertex N Modules
Trina Solar (https://www.TrinaSolar.com/), a global leader in smart PV and energy storage solutions, proudly announces the commencement of the groundbreaking Springbok project in collaboration with SOLA and WBHO, marking a significant milestone in South Africa's renewable energy landscape. The signing ceremony for this monumental venture took place at Solar & Storage Live Africa, highlighting the importance of strategic partnerships in driving sustainable energy solutions. The Springbok project, located in South Africa's Free State province, is the first and largest privately developed n-type utility-scale project in the country with a capacity of 195MW, standing as a landmark initiative. It is also the first project in South Africa to serve multiple off-takers.
"At Trina Solar, we are proud to contribute to South Africa's renewable energy landscape through the Springbok Project, which will mark a significant milestone in the nation's sustainable journey. Empowering Africa's transition towards renewable energy is fundamental to our mission. Through innovation and technological advancement, we're committed to providing accessible and efficient solar solutions, that propel the continent towards a greener, net-zero future." - Yang Bao, President, Global Sales & Marketing at Trina Solar
This innovative project will harness the power of advanced n-type technology, with Trina Solar supplying a total of 331,200 panels of Vertex N series modules (NEG19RC.20). Leveraging the 210mm product technology platform, these modules excel in power, efficiency, reliability, and levelized cost of energy (LCOE), and have gained recognition among global customers. The Vertex N modules, renowned for their high energy yield, are poised to deliver exceptional performance across diverse settings and weather conditions, setting a new standard for utility-scale photovoltaic projects in South Africa.
"Trina Solar is proud to supply its advanced Vertex N modules for the pioneering Springbok project and thereby delivering substantial value to our customers," commented Zaheer Khan, Regional Director of Southern Africa at Trina Solar. "Our decision to utilize n-type modules emphasizes our dedication to providing high-performance solutions that optimize energy yield, reduce BOS and lower LCOE. We are confident that our modules will deliver unparalleled results, further solidifying South Africa's position as a leader in renewable energy adoption."
WBHO also shared their enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its transformative impact on South Africa's energy landscape."We are thrilled to be part of this groundbreaking initiative," added Derek Wallace, Managing Director of WBHO Construction's Projects Division. "The Springbok project not only demonstrates the potential of renewable energy but also highlights our commitment to fostering sustainable development and driving economic growth in South Africa."
Leveraging on the success of the pioneering 135MW Merak 1 Project, which marked the inception of our partnership with SOLA and WBHO, as well as this groundbreaking 195MW Springbok project, Trina Solar looks forward to continuing such long-term collaboration with both parties to harness the collective expertise and drive further innovation.
As South Africa continues its transition towards renewable energy, Trina Solar remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the nation's journey towards carbon neutrality. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, Trina Solar is playing a pivotal role in advancing the country's solar industry and contributing to global efforts to combat climate change. With the integrated n-type industrial chain, high-quality products, and excellent service, the company will keep contributing to a net-zero future.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Trina Solar.
About Trina Solar:
Founded in 1997, Trina Solar Co Ltd (stock symbol: Trina Solar; stock code: 688599) is engaged mainly in PV products, PV systems and smart energy. PV products include R&D, production and sales of PV modules. PV systems consist of power stations and system products. Smart energy comprises mainly PV power generation and operations and maintenance, smart solutions for energy storage, smart microgrid, and development and sales of multi-energy systems. We are committed to leading the way in smart PV and energy storage solutions and facilitating the transformation of new power systems for a net-zero future.
On June 10, 2020, Trina Solar was listed on the Science and Technology Innovation Board (STAR Market) of the Shanghai Stock Exchange(SSE). It was the first PV and energy storage company to go public on the STAR Market providing PV products and systems, as well as smart energy. For more information, please visit www.TrinaSolar.com.
RS Imports TV & Audio Products
In today’s digital era, home entertainment holds a significant place in our lives. Whether it’s for watching your favorite movies, listening to music, or gaming, having the right TV and audio setup can make all the difference. When it comes to purchasing these essential components, RS Imports emerges as a trusted online destination. Let’s delve …
Schools are helping sunbirds find their old routes across Cape Town
Urban sprawl has disrupted their migratory patterns
Shortening Your Wait for the UK Driving Test
Navigating the path to obtaining a driving license in the UK has become increasingly arduous due to prolonged waiting times for driving tests. This situation has not only frustrated learners but also put a strain on instructors and the broader driving education ecosystem. The emergence of driving test cancellation services offers a glimmer of hope, …
When redefining value, higher education institutions will be increasingly required to step out of their comfort zones
When redefining value, higher education institutions will be increasingly required to step out of their comfort zones Higher education institutions worldwide are currently facing a critical period in their existence. They have to redefine their value proposition to a cohort of students who are not only digital natives but have grown up in an environment …
Mashatile reiterates commitment to accelerated service delivery in N West
Mashatile reiterates commitment to accelerated service delivery in N West
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has reaffirmed government’s commitment to continue to provide basic services to its people and ensure that all South Africans have equal rights, as outlined in the Freedom Charter.
Mashatile said government recognises that accelerated service delivery is not just about efficiency and convenience; it is also about creating a society where every individual has equal access to basic services.
“Improving the delivery of basic services in South Africa is more than just a question of duty; it is also about social fairness, equality, and dignity. By ensuring that everyone has access to essential services, we can empower people, strengthen communities, and create a more successful and inclusive country,” he said.
The second-in-command was leading the Thuntsha Lerole Accelerated Service Delivery programme in Rusternburg, North West, on Friday.
Thuntsha Lerole 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.
The programme is in accordance with the District Development Model (DDM), which aims to tackle service delivery issues by facilitating collaboration and coordination among all levels of government, from local municipalities to the national government.
It is currently in its third phase, which aims to launch and hand over service delivery projects in identified communities, running from March to May 2024.
READ | District Development Model: A game changer
The Deputy President said they support the 'Early Warning System' in the form of an electronic dashboard that will monitor municipal performance and reporting in a more coordinated manner.
The Thuntsha-Lerole mobile app, which has now gone live, will provide an interactive communication platform to connect government with citizens, allowing them to report service delivery challenges in real time in their localities.
Through this app, communities will have the ability to promptly escalate service delivery issues to the appropriate department and municipal officials.
“This will enable speedy responses to challenges such as water disruptions, sewer spillages, electricity outages, and more. Given the high cost of data in our country and the prevalence of poverty in our society, we anticipate that the application will soon become accessible without requiring data, hence enhancing access for individuals, especially those residing in rural areas and townships,” the Deputy President said.
READ | Mashatile calls for accelerated service delivery in communities across SA
Mashatile visited several sites in Tlhabane, including a newly-built school and the Tlhabane Community Health Centre, unveiling a state-of-the-art X-ray machine.
He handed over the R2.2 million modern technology X-Ray machine, which was donated to the Health Centre by Glencore Mine. The machine allows doctors and radiographers to view patient scans on display, reducing hospital referrals and wait times. It also stores X-ray records for up to five years, enhancing patient care.
“Let me express our deepest gratitude, as government, to Glencore Mine for this donation, which will go a long way towards improving the health of our people. It is through working together as social partners that we will attain our country’s developmental aspirations and a better life for all,” Mashatile said.
The Deputy President said these initiatives are just part of providing solutions to the service delivery challenges faced by the North West community.
“We are aware that a lot still needs to be done to meet the needs of our people. Greater and more focused endeavours are required, particularly in addressing the reversal of the governance collapse in the province,” he said.
He highlighted that the 6th administration of government faced difficulties related to the stability and collapse of administration and as a result, the President and Cabinet utilised Section 100 of the Constitution to intervene in the province.
“Nevertheless, I was pleased to hear Acting Premier Nono Maloyi's State of the Province Address, in which it was said that despite these difficulties, your determination remains unshaken and your commitment to serving the people of the North West has been fortified.
“We applaud your ability to successfully implement a sustainable turnaround strategy in all 22 municipalities in the province, using the District Development Model (DDM),” he said.
READ | Mashatile officiates launch of North West service delivery programme. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sun, 03/17/2024 - 14:57
294 views
Dr Phil Mjwara takes a bow as Director-General of Science and Innovation
Dr Phil Mjwara takes a bow as Director-General of Science and Innovation
Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande has announced the retirement of Dr Phil Mjwara, the country's longest-serving Director-General, from his role as Director-General of the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI).
In a statement on Friday, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation said Dr Mjwara has a long and distinguished career as a senior public servant. With 18 years of service, he holds the distinction of being the country’s longest serving Director-General.
“He played a leading role in shaping the policy and institutional architecture of South Africa’s National System of Innovation (NSI). He led the establishment of some of our country’s key science institutions, such as the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) and the South African National Space Agency (SANSA).
“He also played a leading role in laying the basis for and repositioning our NSI through policy interventions such as South Africa’s first national Science and Technology Foresight Exercise in the 1990s and later, the White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation and the Decadal Plan for Science, Technology, and Innovation,” the ministry said.
As chairperson of the Forum of South African Directors-General (FOSAD), he also played a critical role in coordinating some of the key projects of government and ensuring inter-departmental synergies.
“Dr Mjwara leaves the public service with a solid reputation of visionary and ethical leadership,” said Nzimande.
READ | Dr Phil Mjwara honoured for promoting science, technology and innovation in SA
Nzimande also announced that Mr Daan Du Toit has been appointed as acting Director-General for the Department of Science and Innovation,for a period of 12 months.
Du Toit brings with him a wealth of experience. He started his career in government at the then Department of Foreign Affairs, where he trained as a diplomat. Since 2002, he has been attached to the Department of Science and Innovation and served as the department's representative in Europe.
Du Toit is currently the Deputy Director-General at the Department of Science and Innovation, responsible for International Cooperation and Resources. Through this position, he has played a significant role in initiating and maintaining some of South Africa’s key global engagements and partnerships in the area of science, technology and innovation.
“The Minister thanks Dr Mjwara for his service to the nation, and wishes Mr Du Toit well on his appointment as Acting Director General,” the Ministry said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sun, 03/17/2024 - 08:59
96 views
Irish Tech Challenge opens up opportunities for young entrepreneurs
Irish Tech Challenge opens up opportunities for young entrepreneurs
Following the successful 2023 Irish Tech Challenge programme, which saw a group of young South African entrepreneurs display their tech start-ups in Ireland, the 2024 instalment of the challenge will be launched today.
Ireland’s Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien, will on Friday officially launch the 2024 Irish Tech Challenge at the Tshimologong Digital Precinct in Johannesburg.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of the Witwatersrand, Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, Ireland’s Ambassador to South Africa, Austin Gormley, and the Overseas Bilateral Cooperation Chief Director, Anneline Morgan, will join O’Brien.
The team will be joined by officials from the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI).
The Irish Tech Challenge is a partnership between the Embassy of Ireland in South Africa, the DSI, the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), Wits University’s Tshimologong Digital Precinct and Dogpatch Labs, a start-up incubator in Ireland.
“The initiative aims to help high-potential tech entrepreneurs in South Africa who are ready to scale globally and enhance their impact to overcome challenges such as limited resources, high tech costs, and network and infrastructure access,” the statement read.
Winning start-ups will receive up to €10 000 (R204 330) in funding.
The winners will also be treated to a 10-day trip to Ireland, where they will be part of a curated networking programme with access to the country’s top business leaders, and acceleration support to position their global scaling strategy, in collaboration with Dogpatch Labs in Ireland.
They will also have access to the Irish tech ecosystem with potential opportunities for further funding, and increased exposure leveraged by both the Irish and South African governments.
The DSI said it values the positive socio-economic impact of the Irish Tech Challenge, which assists South African tech entrepreneurs to contribute to driving innovation, job creation and inclusive economic growth in the country. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 03/15/2024 - 11:20
57 views
Revolutionising laundry: LG unveils the ultimate top loader
Revolutionising laundry: LG unveils the ultimate top loader Introducing LG’s innovative new top loader washing machines with front loader technology. If you have ever pondered the best features of top loader and front loader washers, you are not alone. The convenience of top loaders, with their speedy wash cycles and effortless clothing additions, contrasts with …
FAW Trucks SA unveils the JK6 FD/FT variant, reinforcing its position as an industry pioneer
Johannesburg, March — FAW Trucks SA, a force in global commercial vehicle manufacturing, proudly announces the introduction launch of the new generation JK6 FD/FT variant. This strategic introduction underscores the company’s steadfast commitment to advancing technology and performance in the commercial transport sector. With a rich history dating back to its establishment in South Africa …
The European company that profited from corruption at PRASA
Vossloh made R1.8-billion from a dodgy deal and has not paid back a cent
SA, Ghana have great potential to unlock economic opportunities
SA, Ghana have great potential to unlock economic opportunities
President Cyril Ramaphosa says there is great potential to unlock economic opportunities through investment-led trade initiatives aimed at increasing the trade of value-added products between South Africa and Ghana.
“We need to move beyond trade in commodities and on to the purchase of job creating agricultural goods, and advanced manufactured and value-added products,” President Ramaphosa said.
Addressing the SA-Ghana Business Forum held at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand on Tuesday, President Ramaphosa said South Africa and Ghana share a long and rich history defined by the struggle for freedom.
“This history provides a firm foundation to forge closer economic ties that can spur growth and development in both countries,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said South Africa is pleased to host the Business Forum to explore business opportunities that enhance bilateral economic relations.
Earlier in the day, President Ramaphosa and his Ghanaian counterpart, President Nana Akufo-Addo, reaffirmed the importance of nurturing of the existing historic relations and bonds of friendship between the two countries.
The two Heads of State emphasised that these relations are based on mutual partnership and solidarity, which date back to the struggle against apartheid and colonialism.
President Akufo-Addo is in South Africa on a working visit at the invitation of President Ramaphosa to co-chair the 2nd Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between the two countries.
Tuesday’s BNC, which was held at the Department of International Relations offices in Pretoria, was preceded by a ministerial meeting on Monday,11 March. Meanwhile, a senior officials meeting was held on Friday, 8 March.
At the Business Forum, President Ramaphosa said Africa has been at the lower-end of global value chains.
"We have abundant natural resources, but limited productive capability to process them for higher value capture.
“However, the need for a global transition to a low-carbon future offers the continent new opportunities to upgrade and diversify into technology-intensive global value chains. Our two countries are in a strategic position to benefit from the rapid growth of key clean energy manufacturing industries.
“Most of the minerals critical for the manufacturing of clean energy technologies, such as battery storage and electric vehicles, are held in Africa,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said there is a need to improve manufacturing capacity and scale up production and export through the building of domestic and regional linkages and value chains.
READ | SA, Ghana explore ways to expand trade and investment
“It is important to explore practical cooperation between key players in industry to foster effective and mutually beneficial collaboration between our countries to promote green industrialisation.
“This will help to build on the strong trade and investment links between our economies. South Africa is already the largest purchaser of Ghanaian exports in Africa, and the third largest importer of Ghana’s products globally,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa emphasised the need to move beyond trade in commodities and on to the purchase of job-creating agricultural goods, advanced manufactured and value-added products.
“The importance of Ghana to South Africa as an anchor partner country within West Africa is affirmed by the many South African trade missions to explore business opportunities in the form of investment-led trade,” he said.
The relationship between the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Ghana has grown exponentially over the years.
Cooperation between the two countries has been elevated from a Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation (PJCC) that is held at a Ministerial level to a Bi-National Commission, presided over by the two Heads of State and Government.
The Business Forum brought together companies and entrepreneurs from South Africa and Ghana with the aim of deepening trade and mutual investment and leveraging the opportunities created within the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Expanded trade and investment will stimulate growth and job creation in both countries and facilitate closer people-to-people interaction between the two nations. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 03/13/2024 - 10:41
527 views
Trina Solar, SOLA, and Wilson Bayly Holmes Ovcon (WBHO) to Power a South African Mining Operation with 135MW Merak 1 Project
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Trina Solar (www.TrinaSolar.com), the world's leading provider of smart PV and energy storage solutions has partnered with SOLA, a South African leader in renewable energy with a focus on utility-scale projects and WBHO Construction to embark on a transformative solar project. The Merak 1 project signifies a major milestone in sustainable energy solutions for South Africa.
Sola and WBHO formed a joint venture to ensure the successful execution of the Merak 1 project, contributing to South Africa's renewable energy goals.
Trina Solar will supply the project with 205,161 panels of its advanced Vertex modules. It is set to provide the power needed for the operations of African Rainbow Minerals, one of South Africa's foremost mining companies, underlining the commitment to harnessing clean and efficient energy sources for large-scale industrial applications. The project is set to be operational by the end of 2024.
"We're proud to be part of this project to supply 135MW 210mm p-type bifacial Vertex modules. This collaboration showcases Trina Solar's commitment to advancing clean energy solutions tailored to the country's industrial needs and deliver high-power, high-efficiency and reliable solar solutions. This project marks our inaugural foray into utility-scale projects of South Africa," commented Zaheer Khan, Regional Director of Southern Africa at Trina Solar.
"We are excited to play a pivotal role in the Merak 1 project, leveraging WBHO Construction's EPC expertise to contribute to South Africa's sustainable energy future. This collaboration underscores our commitment to delivering innovative solutions for utility-scale projects," commented Derek Wallace, Director at WBHO Construction.
The Merak 1 project not only represents a leap forward in the adoption of renewable energy but also showcases the potential of strategic partnerships to drive positive change and address the evolving energy needs of South Africa. Trina Solar continues to contribute to the country's transition towards sustainable and efficient energy solutions, further solidifying its role as a key player in the South African solar industry.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Trina Solar.
About Trina Solar:
Founded in 1997, Trina Solar Co Ltd (stock symbol: Trina Solar; stock code: 688599) is engaged mainly in PV products, PV systems and smart energy. PV products include R&D, production and sales of PV modules. PV systems consist of power stations and system products. Smart energy comprises mainly PV power generation and operations and maintenance, smart solutions for energy storage, smart microgrid, and development and sales of multi-energy systems. We are committed to leading the way in smart PV and energy storage solutions and facilitating the transformation of new power systems for a net-zero future.
On June 10, 2020, Trina Solar was listed on the Science and Technology Innovation Board (STAR Market) of the Shanghai Stock Exchange(SSE). It was the first PV and energy storage company to go public on the STAR Market providing PV products and systems, as well as smart energy. For more information, please visit www.TrinaSolar.com.
University of Pretoria settles R400 million NSFAS unallocated funds
University of Pretoria settles R400 million NSFAS unallocated funds
The University of Pretoria (UP) has fully paid the R400 million that is due to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) in unallocated funds.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Special Investigating Unit said the money paid by the university was in unallocated funds from 2016 to 2021.
SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago, said the money was paid in four instalments of R100 000 into the SIU’s Trust account, bringing the total recoveries to R 937 926 351 received from institutions of higher learning, since the investigating unit’s NSFAS investigation launched in September 2022.
Kganyago said the unallocated funds are monies for students who qualified for funding but either changed institutions or deregistered.
The funds stay in the possession of the institution for a year.
“The unallocated funds are due to poor control systems and a lack of reconciliation processes by the NSFAS and were not collected from institutions of higher learning. When approached by the SIU, the institutions cooperated, which led to a quick recovery process,” Kganyago explained.
Kganyago said the SIU has so far recovered the funds from institutions of higher learning, including the West Coast College which has repaid R5 057 679; NorthLink College R33 369 404.97; Walter Sisulu University R 19 900 174; Nkangala TVET College R342 672.50 and the University of Johannesburg R311 892 088.94, among others.
Kganyago said the SIU has also signed an acknowledgement of the debt agreement of R38 707 884.10 with Motheo TVET College in the Free State, as well as debt agreement of R10 997 855.50 with parents and students who did not meet the NSFAS funding criteria.
According to the SIU investigation, NSFAS failed to design and implement controls to ensure there is an annual reconciliation between the funds disbursed to the institutions and the allocation of those funds to the students.
The control weaknesses have led to overpayments and underpayments of funds to the different institutions over the period 2017 to date.
Kganyago said the NSFAS has recently appointed a service provider to assist them in performing the reconciliation via a process called “close-out reporting” which is ongoing.
The SIU has also found that Celbux – the e-wallet/voucher payment system- had many “dormant” accounts lying active on the Celbux system dating back to 2018 amounting to an estimated value of R320 million.
Celbux is a financial technology provider that facilitates the disbursement of money, on behalf of customers to anyone with a cell phone in a digital form.
On NSFAS-funded accommodation, the SIU discovered that details of the accommodation, including physical addresses and details of the landlord or owner of the accommodation were not captured on the NSFAS system. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 03/13/2024 - 11:31
102 views
The ‘Legitimising’ of Bitcoin – You could have turned $30 into R40 Million over 14 years
Bitcoin has been around for ages – since 9 January 2009 – and, in internet years, that is a very long time. Early adopters used to bring their miners to work and plug them into their computer workstations USB ports to take advantage of the ’employer electricity and broadband’. As the market matured the miners …
Laying the Foundation for Africa’s Silicon Valley
Since the dawn of the internet, Africa has been on the back foot of technological development in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector. This is due to a number of reasons, including a lack of infrastructure and resources. According to the International Monetary Fund, this has resulted in only 28 percent of the continent …
PSC study makes recommendations on hybrid work arrangements
PSC study makes recommendations on hybrid work arrangements
The Public Service Commission (PSC) has completed a study on the impact of hybrid work arrangements on service delivery in the public service.
PSC Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya says the COVID-19 pandemic forced most organisations, including government, to consider alternative working arrangements in order to limit human and physical interaction.
“This resulted in the introduction of hybrid workspaces and the working from home (WFH) option that was new for most employees, as only a few private companies offered this option pre-COVID-19,” Gxoyiya said at a briefing in Pretoria on Monday.
The study focused on the shutdown period from March 2020 and the subsequent lockdown levels as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gxoyiya explained that the purpose of the study was to investigate the actual and perceived impact that the introduction of hybrid work and work from home arrangements had on service delivery in the public service in selected departments, with a view to formulate recommendations that could assist the public service to adapt.
He said the study focused on six service delivery departments/institutions in the public service, which are Education, Employment and Labour, Health, South African Social Security Agency, Home Affairs and the South African Police Service.
The report of the study makes the following recommendations:
• The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) should benchmark with other countries to determine how the hybrid work arrangement was managed during the pandemic and how it is being taken forward as a basis to review relevant legislation, regulations, directives, policies and conditions of service for different categories of occupations and/or employees.
• The public service, led by the DPSA, National Treasury and the Department of Communications and Digital Services, must take the lead in digitising government operations and prioritising access to tools of trade that will enable the effective implementation of hybrid work arrangements, where feasible.
• Departments, in collaboration with the National School of Government, should incorporate continuous training programmes on new technologies that are necessary to facilitate remote work arrangements, online collaboration and remote access to centralised systems as well as other emerging innovations for employees to stay abreast of the new developments.
• National Treasury, in collaboration with departments such as the DPSA and Public Works and Infrastructure, must conduct a cost-benefit analysis of implementing hybrid work arrangements for selected non-essential service departments in order to identify possible cost-saving measures and possible once-off cost drivers as a basis to generate resources to fund critical areas of need, including the rapid adoption of technology-enabled solutions and provision of other essential services to the public.
Gxoyiya noted that the findings of the study suggest that existing primary legislation and policies were and are still silent on the practice of working from home or hybrid work arrangements.
“During the lockdown period, the gap had to be addressed through the passing of new regulations, directions and guidelines to enable departments to put measures in place to comply with the COVID-19 regulations whilst still ensuring work continuity.
“The study documents a combination of positive and negative practices/experiences, including notable innovative measures that were put in place by public service departments, as well as the commitment of many employees who put their lives at risk in order to provide services to the public,” Gxoyiya said.
Gxoyiya said there were challenges noted with regard to the implementation of the hybrid work arrangement which included, amongst others, capacity constraints; additional expenses that were not budgeted for; inaccessibility of some service sites when some staff members tested positive for COVID-19; inconsistent practices in granting employees permission to work from home between and within departments, and lack of appropriate tools of trade for some employees.
“Performance was managed differently according to the different departments and in some instances, it varied within the different units in the respective departments,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 03/11/2024 - 13:16
316 views
Futurelife® Launches Unique AI Wellness Experience At Canal Walk Store
CAPE TOWN – The introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into our daily lives isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a fundamental shift in our interaction with technology, reshaping our everyday experiences. Embracing AI and all it has to offer, FUTURELIFE®, a leading health and wellness brand, is launching the FUTURELIFE® ASPIRE2B DIGITAL AI WELLNESS EXPERIENCE …
Navigating Media Legality: Insights into South Africa’s Regulatory Landscape
What is Intellectual property? Intellectual property (IP) is a legal concept that protects the creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, and names. It grants creators exclusive rights to their creations, similar to physical property rights. IP law encompasses various categories, including patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets, each …