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• From 2020 to date, 60 graduates have been permanently employed at ABB • ABB hires graduates from disadvantaged backgrounds, female engineers and people living with disabilities • ABB’s global initiatives align with localisation policies In recognition of World Youth Skills Day on 15 July, leading technology and solutions provider ABB acknowledges that skills development …
Deputy President to chair Human Resource Development Council meeting
Deputy President Paul Mashatile is expected to chair the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) meeting at the Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley, in the Northern Cape.
The meeting is scheduled for Friday, 18 August.
The HRDC is a national multi-stakeholder advisory body, which includes representatives from government, labour, the private sector and civil society, led by the Deputy President.
“Its deliberations are carried over for implementation, through various measures and programmes aimed at achieving the strategic goals of the Human Resource Development Strategy Towards 2030,” the Presidency said in a statement on Wednesday.
In line with the council’s decision of strengthening the link and alignment between provincial councils and the HRDC at the national level, Deputy President Mashatile recently led the council to KwaZulu-Natal in May 2023.
The aim was to assess progress achieved by the province in implementing programmes and initiatives towards the attainment of the Human Resource Development Strategy Towards 2030.
As part of the resolutions of the fourth HRDC Summit, representatives of relevant social partners signed two social compacts.
These include ‘Building foundations for a transformed economy and society’ and ‘Building skills for a transformed economy and society’, while the third one will be signed on Friday in Kimberley.
Through this HRDC outreach led by the Deputy President, all the relevant partners have rallied behind the vision to invest in education and training, science and technology, geared to address the challenges of critical skills shortages and unemployment.
The meeting is expected to receive a presentation from the Northern Cape HRDC, which was recently relaunched and chaired by Premier Zamani Saul.
The presentation will provide an update on provincial efforts towards building the requisite skills required for economic development.
Cabinet Ministers, the Premier of the Northern Cape and senior government officials, will accompany Deputy President Mashatile. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 08/16/2023 - 15:44
The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Science and Innovation is greatly concerned about the current state of affairs at the National Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). The committee has noted that NSFAS continues to be embroiled in disputes with students across the higher education sector on issues and allegations relating to the new direct-payment system, including the defunding of students, outstanding appeal responses, non-responsive query system and accommodation accreditation backlogs.
The committee also received a memorandum of demands from a representation of students from the University of Stellenbosch, the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, the University of Cape Town and the University of the Western Cape outside Parliament in which students highlighted crippling inefficiencies at NSFAS that have led many students to be defunded.
The committee has been in on-going communication with NSFAS and the Department of Higher Education and Training regarding the above concerns throughout this constituency period. On Thursday, 10 August 2023, some members of the committee met with the department led by the Director General, Dr Nkosinathi Sishi, and the Board of NSFAS, led by Mr Ernest Khosa, to establish what is being done to address the above concerns.
The inability for NSFAS to resolve the above matters gravely concerns the committee given the impact it has on students' academic programme. Inundated with calls and messages from students, parents and concerned citizens, the committee shares the frustrations of affected parties and commits itself to continue representing the interests of the affected.
NSFAS remains a quintessential tool in ensuring that the triple challenges of unemployment, poverty and inequality are addressed by ensuring access to education; thus, the optimal functionality of NSFAS is paramount.
The committee had previously heard in a briefing that the direct payment system would ensure that students receive their allowances on time and that no exorbitant bank charges would be incurred by students. The committee is thus disappointed and concerned by the systemic inefficiencies with the rollout of the new direct payment system and calls on the department to closely monitor the remedies for this problem.
The committee further calls upon NSFAS to move with speed and find remedial action to resolve cases where deserving students who have been erroneously defunded are refunded.
The committee commends NSFAS for its massive growth in the number of students funded by the scheme. However, it also emphasises that the scheme must strengthen its administration and management capacity. The Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, and NSFAS Board must with outmost urgency stabilise and strengthen the leadership and work force of NSFAS.
The committee will continue to engage with NSFAS and the department as part of its oversight responsibilities.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Many students say they have not received their allowances
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Bisho, Eastern Cape – 16 AUGUST 2023– Acclaimed Afro house DJ and producer JCross unlimited released his debut EP, titled “Unlimited Sounds ,” on 13-08-2023. The EP features FIve original tracks, all of which showcase JCross unlimited’s unique blend of soulful vocals, driving rhythms, and intricate melodies. “I’m really excited to finally share this EP …
Introduction The concept of a home has evolved dramatically over the years. From simple shelters to grand architectural marvels, and now to intelligent living spaces, our homes have mirrored our societal progress. Today, the integration of technology into our residences has given rise to the phenomenon of “smart homes.” But what exactly makes these homes …
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In today’s fast-paced business world, first impressions are paramount. Whether you’re a fledgling startup or an established enterprise, ensuring that every call is handled with utmost professionalism can set the tone for all future interactions. This is where the virtual receptionist comes into play, offering a transformative approach to customer service. Historically, businesses have …
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[Cape Town, 14 August 2023] – Uku Inbound, a leading HubSpot Partner in South Africa, and power2Cloud, a leader in digital transformation from Italy with a robust technology ecosystem, are thrilled to announce their partnership, a significant milestone for both companies. The partnership positions Uku Inbound as a formidable player in the digital transformation landscape, …
Mr Keith Featherstone, acting Chief Nuclear Officer at the Koeberg Nuclear Power Plant (KNPP), was Premier Alan Winde's guest this week at his 20th Energy Digicon.
The power station's contribution to the Western Cape and South Africa's energy needs was the primary focus of this week's digicon. “The importance of Koeberg to the Western Cape has significantly increased. Without Koeberg it is not possible for transmission lines to actually supply the Western Cape's load on their own. Our aim is always to ensure higher reliability of the plant - which we are able to achieve - as well as to minimise the chance of both units being shut down at the same time,” stressed Mr Featherstone.
From the outset, he addressed the delays experienced in the refurbishment process, currently under way at the plant. Describing it as a “major service”, he explained that Eskom has submitted its application to the National Nuclear Regulator, along with what is called a “safety case”, requesting permission for the facility to be allowed to operate for another 20 years. As part of the submission, management at the power station identified 3 pieces of equipment that need to be replaced:
Mr Featherstone said, “I am pleased to say that at long last the three steam generators at unit 1 have been replaced. All the mechanical work is completed. Once the unit is synchronised to the grid there is still a lot of testing we need to do. Only when all those tests are completed will we consider the unit to be commercially available.” The unit will be back in operation by 3 November 2023.
Mr Featherstone added, “The unit 2 outage has now been scheduled for 7 November 2023. We have estimated that we will need longer than what we originally planned based on the experience from unit 1, and we will be taking all the lessons we have learned from this outage into the unit 2 outage to make sure that we can do it as speedily as possible. There have not been significant periods where there has been a risk to the Western Cape for both units being down. We are actively working day and night to bring this unit back as soon as possible. Unfortunately, it has taken a lot longer than what we were originally anticipating.”
On whether it is viable to expand nuclear power in South Africa to help meet the growing demand for energy, Mr Featherstone detailed how that with the international drive to reduce carbon emissions nuclear energy is finding a resurgence globally, particularly for baseload supply. “We do have the experience; we know how to manage nuclear power stations. Within Eskom, we have a lot of experience in doing that. The technology is viable. With the number of projects starting all over the world there must be a case to show that it can be done viably. I believe it is possible. I believe we do need it because we have to transition away from coal.” He also offered the assurance that there is no risk of nuclear fallout at KNPP.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Western Cape Government: Department of the Premier.
Introduction The pursuit of optimal breast health and the early detection of abnormalities have become paramount in our modern healthcare landscape. As science and technology continue to advance, diagnostic tools like mammograms and ultrasounds play a pivotal role in the early identification of potential issues. In this article, we delve into the synergistic relationship between …
BRICS Ministers sign declaration on agriculture
Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza, has welcomed the signing of the Joint Declaration of the 13th Meeting of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) Ministers of Agriculture.
The Declaration outlines areas of collaboration, cooperation and agreement on various interventions among BRICS member countries on agriculture.
These include reducing the impact of climate change on agriculture and food production; ensuring access to food for the most vulnerable; agriculture trade and investment; enhancing agricultural technology cooperation and innovation, and strengthening exchange of agricultural information.
“On climate change, the BRICS Ministers of Agriculture called for the provision of means of implementation for developing countries to enable them to reduce the negative impacts of climate change on food security by enhancing the adaptive capacity and resilience of people, food, and agriculture production systems.
“They further resolved to advocate for joined efforts among BRICS member countries to address climate change impacts on agriculture. The Ministers also support the adoption of agricultural best practices that align with internationally agreed goals, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development said on Monday.
The Ministers noted that the challenges to achieve food security and nutrition are multi-sectoral and multidimensional. They emphasized the need for a collaborative approach among the BRICS countries in ensuring access to food for all.
In addition, they acknowledged the significance of food and nutrition security programmes, including food safety nets to reduce hunger and malnutrition among women, youth, children, older people, and persons with disabilities.
The declaration was signed last week at the conclusion of a four-day gathering of the BRICS Ministers of Agriculture in Mookgopong in Limpopo, South Africa.
Over the gathering (8 - 12 August), delegates from BRICS deliberated on various challenges under the theme, 'Strengthening collaboration towards sustainable agricultural production and increasing productivity'.
On agriculture and rural development, the Ministers committed to accelerate existing national agriculture and rural development programmes and initiatives, with a focus on revitalising rural economies, and attracting public and private investment, while fostering skills development.
“The Ministers also support the reform of the global agricultural trade system through measures that support developing economies.
“Furthermore, the Ministers encouraged policies enhancing open, free and fair agricultural trade, and encouraged the removal of unjustified trade restrictions,” the department said.
The full declaration can be accessed on the DALRRD website: www.dalrrd.gov.za. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 08/14/2023 - 11:59
Sony’s Battery-Powered Marvels: The Perfect Companion During Load Shedding Finding ways to entertain yourself during load shedding is a crucial part of keeping your sanity this winter. If you are not properly prepared, you could find yourself going without electricity for hours with only your thumbs to twiddle. Keeping a couple of long-lasting gadgets on …
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Digital literacy programme to provide training to Eastern Cape communities
Communities in the Eastern Cape are set to benefit from a digital literacy programme, which will provide digital skills training.
Launched by the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Mondli Gungubele, this initiative is aimed at reducing the digital divide in communities.
“The intention is to extend it to as many municipalities as possible. It also offers an entry point towards higher order skills that are so much needed for entrepreneurial or work opportunities.
“In the absence of such understanding, it is difficult to devise relevant and appropriate digital skills interventions and support strategies for meaningful outcomes,” the Minister said on Thursday in the Buffalo City Metro.
When he delivered his remarks, the Minister noted studies that indicate that more technology advances introduced into society, the more widespread and pervasive the digital divide.
According to a 2022 World Bank report, the digital divide is a stark reality in South Africa, affecting all generations.
"It is a striking symptom of socioeconomic challenges associated with being the most economically unequal country in the world. Therefore, the discourse on digital inclusion has broadened to consider additional critical factors for ensuring digital equality. Digital inclusion is as such more complex.
“The digital inclusion requires access to learning with age-friendly design and relevant, ethical and safe for digital environments that are at play. What is also required is an informed understanding of skills needs towards the use of emerging technologies,” the Minister said.
He said digital literacy should be delivered in a strategic manner to target the different age groups, genders, and people in different socio-economic positions.
“It is therefore critical that our approach consider challenges such as language and cultural realities when the training is done for them. We should continue to ensure that digital inclusion is not inclusion without women.
“We should also find ways to effectively and strategically use digital technologies to Gender Based Violence and Femicide ((GBVF) in South Africa and the world,” the Minister said.
The Digital Ambassadors initiative provides digital skills training to members of the community, especially focusing on locally relevant digital content and services.
It will improve the skills, capacity, and employment prospects of beneficiaries.
“It will further demonstrate the worth of utilizing modern technology to the broader communities. We therefore call on members of the society, in particular young people of Mdantsane, Duncan Village, King Williams Town and East London and the Eastern Cape to join this digital revolution and involve themselves in these initiatives by enrolling with National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa (NEMISA) and take part. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 08/11/2023 - 09:43
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Introduction Mammography, a specialised X-ray imaging of breast tissue, has emerged as a cornerstone in the early detection of breast cancer. The significance of this screening tool lies not only in its ability to identify abnormalities before they become palpable but also in its potential to improve the outcomes of breast cancer treatment. With such …
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SA universities at risk of losing 10% of academics as they near retirement
Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, has cast the spotlight on investing in young scholars, as a number of academics in public universities are nearing retirement.
Citing the 2023 Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Indicators Report, Nzimande noted that the proportion of staff over the age of 60 increased from 7.3% in 2011 to 10.4% in 2020.
“This trend implies that public universities will lose about 10% of permanent staff with doctoral qualifications due to retirement within the next five years,” he said on Thursday.
The report found that the percentage of staff aged 20 to 29 declined from 7.9% in 2011 to 5.8% in 2020.
“Although there is an increase in the proportion of staff aged 30 to 39, this increase is lower than that of staff aged over 60. Therefore, there is a need to intensify support to young academic staff through instruments such as the New Generation of Academics Programme,” Nzimande said.
He was speaking at the launch of the annual STI Report in Pretoria.
Commissioned by the National Advisory Council on Innovation (NACI), the report examines investment in research, development and innovation, STI human resources, innovation in manufacturing, digital competitiveness, and the distribution of research and development (R&D) in provinces.
NACI is a leading advisory body to government on science, technology and innovation, and provides evidence-based advice to the Minister.
Because of the department’s various programmes aimed at developing future generations of academics and building staff capacity, Nzimande said the gender gap among academic employees is gradually closing.
“The proportions of male and female researchers are approaching parity,” the Minister said.
However, he noted that the proportion of staff in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields has remained consistent over time.
“This finding is, on reflection, not surprising.
“South African academics, once appointed on a permanent basis, cannot easily be replaced. Given that the typical academic career is around 40 years, universities have often been compared to large tankers, which change course slowly, and with difficulty.”
For the percentage of staff in the STEM fields to increase in relation to non-STEM employees, the Minister believes it would require many universities to change their organisational design, creating more medical schools, engineering faculties, and larger science faculties.
He told delegates that the establishment of the new University of Science and Technology in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, is an example of the type of intervention that is required.
“The goal of increasing the numbers of graduates in science, engineering and technology (SET) has been stated and repeated in multiple national policy documents since 1994.
“Despite various initiatives over the years to increase the output of SET graduates, the percentage of SET graduates, as a proportion of all graduates, has remained unchanged over the past 12 years.”
On a positive note, indicators show some growth in black doctoral graduates in STEM fields, constituting an increase of about one-third of all doctoral graduates in 2010 to 44% in 2020.
Nzimande said the university would play a leading role in enhancing the growth of critical skills in the STEM fields needed to create jobs, boost the economy, and improve the lives of citizens.
“One manifestation of the multiple crises of social reproduction is that of gender-based violence and the subordinate position of women in society generally.
“The interrelated crises of unemployment, poverty, inequality, and social reproduction also manifest in high incidents of criminality and different forms of violence afflicting many of our communities.”
South African scientists, Nzimande said, have increased their research collaborations with other countries.
He noted that about 20% of the country’s population was counted as “extremely poor” in 2021.
Nzimande is of the view that the STI, with the country’s policy agenda, will require developing solutions to these socio-economic challenges.
“I can assure you today that through our new ten-year plan for STI, we will respond to these challenges.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/10/2023 - 12:30