MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
Skills are a rare resource that can be found within the talented depths of a trusted managed services provider, says Hope Lukoto, Chief Human Resource Officer at BCX. In 2021, Gartner found that talent shortages were inhibiting technology adoption and development, with 64% of IT executives citing it as a challenge. Fast-forward to 2023, and …
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 …
Introduction Home automation, once a concept limited to sci-fi novels and futuristic movies, has seamlessly integrated into our daily lives. As technology continues to evolve, our homes are becoming smarter, more efficient, and, most importantly, more comfortable. The allure of a home that responds to our needs, learns our preferences, and even anticipates our desires …
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 …
Embracing the AI Revolution: How Technology Will Transform The Industry For The Better: Despite what many may fear, artificial intelligence (AI) is not going to replace humans in the job market. At least not yet. If harnessed correctly, AI could do wonders for the way we live, work, play, and travel. The future of the …
The use of crypto for illegal activities has been a topic of concern since the early days of this new form of digital currency. The public’s perception of cryptocurrencies as being inherently linked to criminal activities (such as money laundering, drug trafficking, and cybercrime) can largely be traced back to the early media coverage around …
[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 …
Introduction In the realm of modern healthcare, mammograms stand as a stalwart guardian of women’s breast health. The significance of these screenings cannot be overstated, as they serve as a formidable defence against one of the most prevalent and potentially life-altering conditions: breast cancer. As the cornerstone of early detection, mammograms play a pivotal role …
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
Introduction: In today’s digital age, the realm of property management has undergone a remarkable transformation, thanks to the advent of rental property management software. This innovative technology has revolutionised the way landlords and property managers oversee their rental properties, enhancing efficiency, tenant satisfaction, and overall profitability. As the demand for streamlined property management practices continues …
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 …
Introduction Carbon offsetting has emerged as a vital strategy in the global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. By definition, carbon offsetting involves compensating for carbon dioxide emissions produced by human activities by funding projects that reduce or remove an equivalent amount of greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. This article delves …
Introduction Cold storages or refrigerated warehouses are essential facilities that play a crucial role in preserving perishable goods by maintaining specific temperature and humidity levels. From the food industry to pharmaceuticals, these specialised storage solutions are vital in ensuring product quality, safety, and longevity. This article provides an in-depth exploration of cold storages, covering their …
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
Introduction Logistics is a term that encompasses the complex process of planning, implementing, and controlling the efficient flow and storage of goods, services, and related information from the point of origin to the point of consumption. It plays a vital role in supply chain management, ensuring that products reach consumers in a timely and cost-effective …
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) are often the most effective way for companies to transform their businesses, whether through acquiring or divesting of businesses or subsidiaries, acquiring technology or supply chains, investing in new product lines, or entering or exiting markets. What is a corporate acquisition? An acquisition is defined as a corporate transaction where …
Recognised as one of the leading business schools for its focus on sustainability and ethical leadership, Rhodes Business School (www.RU.ac.za/BusinessSchool/) has entered into a partnership with eLearnAfrica to develop a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), to fulfil the School's goal of enabling its AMBA accredited MBA to reach into Africa and beyond, like never before.
Professor Owen Skae, Director of Rhodes Business School, says that the eLearnAfrica supported VLE will be operational from 2024. “We are very excited about this as it means our MBA is now more accessible than ever”.
Founded in 2000, Rhodes Business School's Vision is to “transform business for a sustainable world” and its Mission is to “educate and influence responsible business practice, responsibly”.
Says Skae, “We learnt two things from teaching through the pandemic. Returning to the old ‘business as usual model' of ‘chalk and talk' is not going to happen like it used to. At the same time, running Zoom or Teams sessions and just displaying your power-point slides does not suffice. Students and lecturers want the best of both the digital and the physical teaching world. ‘Phygital' is key! The digital or virtual mode provides convenience and flexibility. The physical mode provides the immersion and human engagement that we still need. We know that our students still value the opportunity to come to Rhodes University, given that it is such a unique and special institution.”
The common denominator is having the necessary technology enablement to provide the best teaching and learning experience for students whilst creating a virtual classroom environment for academic staff to deliver effectively and efficiently, regardless of the mode of delivery.
”Getting the state-of-the-art VLE platform that was needed required partnering with someone who knows what they are doing. Students need the right balance of synchronous and asynchronous interaction that only a top-class VLE can bring. That partner is eLearnAfrica” Prof Skae said.
The VLE will provide the full suite of synchronous and asynchronous teaching and learning applications to ensure that the Rhodes Business School MBA continues to be the transformative experience it is renowned for. The partnership with eLearnAfrica brings, immersion, flexibility and convenience.
The VLE-enabled MBA will allow the current four two-week block attendances (i.e. two blocks in Year 1 and two blocks in Year 2) to be reduced to one block in each year (i.e. one block in each of Year 1 and Year 2), for the invaluable face-face delivery mode.
The Rhodes Business School's s essence is “Leadership for Sustainability.” Leadership and sustainability principles underline all subjects in the curriculum. Emphasis is placed on business continuity and achieving a balance between economic, social and environmental sustainability. The School applies its unique 4E (Economy, Ethics, Ecology and Equity) model in its teaching and learning practice.
“Management Education is crucial to unlocking Africa's vast potential. Our MBA strives to educate Africa's future business leaders and managers that it ‘isn't about how much money organisations make, but how they make their money'. Getting that right is critical to achieving the African Union's Agenda 2063, whilst simultaneously meeting the Sustainable Dvelopment Goals and gearing up to take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement. The favourable rand-dollar exchange is also a compelling reason to get full value for money in studying for a world class MBA”, says Skae.
The Rhodes MBA is a coursework degree comprising coursework and a research assignment. The degree is offered on a part-time, modular basis over two years.
The admission requirements are, an Honours degree or Postgraduate Dipploma, a minimum of three years' work experience and an admission test such as NMAT, GMAT or GRE. Applications close on 31st October 2023.
Rhodes Business School, Rhodes University is located in the rural city of Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Its nearest large city is Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rhodes Business School.
For more information on how accessible a Rhodes Business School MBA is, email mba@ru.ac.za or visit www.RU.ac.za/BusinessSchool
Government committed to advancing the lives of women
President Cyril Ramaphosa has used his address at the Women’s Day event to encourage all sectors of society to advance and improve the lives of the women and girls of South Africa.
“We must mobilise all of society to support the women of our country on their road to empowerment and the improvement of their lives. As government, we are irrevocably committed to continuing the process of advancing and improving the lives of the women and girls of South Africa,” the President said on Wednesday in Pretoria.
He was addressing the commemoration of Women’s Day, which is being celebrated under the theme, ‘Accelerating Socio-Economic Opportunities for Women’s Empowerment’.
This theme highlights the need to ensure that all women have access to participate equally in all areas of human endeavour.
“We call upon other key role players who control resources and can open opportunities for women to do so. Business is well placed to play a key role in this process of helping to improve the lives of the women of South Africa,” Ramaphosa said.
The President outlined a number of areas that government and the private sector can address to advance and improve the lives of women.
He emphasised the importance of increasing the representation of women in all structures of society.
“Women must be well represented in key positions in government, in management, in the judiciary. The representation of women in decision-making structures continues to improve.
“In Cabinet, half of the Ministers are women. In Parliament, in the judiciary, in the public service, in the armed forces, in the police and in many local councils, we are getting closer to gender parity,” Ramaphosa said.
Acknowledging these gains, he said more needs to be done to achieve a society of true gender equality.
“There must be policies and laws that focus and advance the lives of women. Our laws and policies must have a bias towards improving the lives of women.
“Since the advent of democracy in 1994, we have put policies and laws in place to empower women, improve their lives and advance gender equality,” the President said.
While he called for the prioritisation of the advancement in education, he noted some achievements in that area.
This, as more female learners sit for matric than males. Female learners are achieving more Bachelor’s passes.
In addition, young women make up the majority of students enrolled in higher education institutions.
The President expressed concern on girls dropping out of school, often due to domestic responsibilities.
“As a society and as families and as a nation we must ensure that our girls stay at school and finish school. Women’s health outcomes continue to improve as a result of progressive policies around reproductive health, antenatal care, HIV/Aids and other communicable diseases.
“Even though women’s health outcomes have improved by a number of indicators, women still carry the largest share of the burden of HIV and are more vulnerable to sexually transmitted diseases.
“Despite our laws, women and girls in many parts of the country still struggle to access reproductive health services,” the President said.
Equal representation in the economy
He called for the participation of women in the country’s economy to be improved.
“Our economy remains dominated by men. More women are unemployed than men. Women are more likely to work part-time, unskilled and semi-skilled jobs and for lower pay. Women are disproportionately responsible for unpaid care work.
“As a result of all these factors, women are more vulnerable to poverty, food insecurity and hunger. Even today, nearly three decades after the dawn of democracy, the face of poverty is a black women.
“The emancipation of women therefore cannot be achieved without economic empowerment. Women must also be breadwinners. They must have equal job opportunities and equal pay. They must be able to start, own and manage businesses,” the President said.
He said women need to have the financial security and independence to have control over their lives.
“We are determined to make the most of available resources to make a difference in the lives of young women, women with disabilities, rural women and LGBTQI+ women. We are making a difference in the lives of women in Small, Medium and Micro enterprises (SMMEs), in cooperatives and in the informal sector,” the President said.
Among other things, government is supporting women’s economic empowerment through public procurement.
Government has made a commitment to allocate at least 40% of public procurement to women-owned businesses.
“While government departments are working in earnest to award more contracts to women-owned businesses, we need to do much more. As things stand, less than a third of the companies listed on the government’s central supplier database are women-owned.
“We have trained more than 6,000 women entrepreneurs to take part in public procurement opportunities. The success of this programme has convinced us of the need to train many more entrepreneurs in their thousands.
“The African Continental Free Trade Area will give women-owned businesses in South Africa and across the continent access to new markets and opportunities. We are working with partners on opportunities for women’s employment and entrepreneurship in agriculture, manufacturing, technology, the oceans economy and others,” the President said.
He also mentioned that the green economy presents immense potential for women’s entrepreneurship and empowerment, especially in renewable energy.
“In a number of cities and towns there are many women who are established as green entrepreneurs working in recycling, in greening, in climate-smart agriculture and a number of other avenues.
We call on the business community to support women’s economic empowerment by partnering with small businesses as part of their green economy plans. There is also immense opportunity for young women in public employment initiatives,” the President said.
Presidential Employment Stimulus
Since it was established in 2020, the Presidential Employment Stimulus has provided work and livelihood opportunities to more than 1.2 million people. Of the participants in the programme, more than 60% are women.
The President has reiterated that the just transition to a low-carbon, climate resilient society protects the interests of women, as it does for all those affected, and that it offers opportunities for women workers and women-owned businesses.
Government is supporting women-owned businesses to expand and diversify. We are specifically increasing our support for women-owned SMMEs through the National Empowerment Fund, the Small Enterprise Finance Agency and others.
“Working with the financial services sector, we are looking to close the gender gap so that women can access banking services and credit for their businesses.
“As a country, we have the right policies and programmes in place. Led by the women of our country, we continue to develop policies that will advance their interests.
What we need now is to intensify the collective efforts of all social partners, including business, to do more to financially empower women,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 08/09/2023 - 14:57
Young women urged to explore opportunities in oceans economy
Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, has encouraged young people to explore career opportunities in the oceans economy.
“Given this enormous diversity available through the oceans economy, there are several value chains from which women can leverage opportunities for jobs, develop entrepreneurships, and build their businesses,” Dlamini Zuma said on Monday in Cape Town.
South Africa has a coastline that spans about 2 800 kilometers from Namibia to Mozambique.
Addressing young women who had an opportunity to visit the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Military Naval Base in Simon’s Town, the Minister emphasised that the ocean resource presents various opportunities, which can be commodified for economic development.
In an effort to demonstrate the opportunities for women in the sector, learners from various schools toured a shipyard at the Military Naval Base as part of Women’s Month activities that showcased the role of women in the maritime sector.
The tour was followed by presentations from officials from who work in maritime security, hydrography, as well submarines. This exercise provided an in-depth understanding of the oceans economy.
“Boat builders are required to construct small and large vessels once these vessels are designed by engineers. Maintenance technicians across various disciplines such as mechanical, electrical and others are required to ensure the ships and their equipment run optimally. Marine biologists are required to point out where the best fishing spots are. The fishing nets used by the trawlers need to be made,” Dlamini Zuma said.
She said that all young people, particularly women, should grow up with a firm understanding of three primary sub-sectors, namely, shipping and transport, marine resources and marine tourism.
“We need a skills revolution which draws from Operation Phakisa to cover all the primary, secondary and tertiary economic activities within the Oceans Economy. We also need a curriculum trains them in the value chain of the four secondary industry sub-sectors,” the Minister said.
These include operational support services, which comprise shipping logistics and marine technologies; manufacturing and construction (including civil engineering, marine manufacturing, ship repair and maintenance), as well as business services, which incorporates maritime specialised professionals within the banking, legal, insurance, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), and the consulting domain.
Operation Phakisa focuses on unlocking the economic potential of South Africa's oceans, which could contribute up to R177 billion to the GDP by 2033 and between 800 000 and one million direct jobs.
“As a department, we have adopted an all-of-society approach to livelihoods restoration and wealth creation toward empowering women, youth and persons with disabilities. This involves a partnership with the SANDF to establish a National Service where young people will be trained across various disciplines, including the oceans economy.
“Let us make the call to the country to join us in supporting and implementing meaningful programmes, plans, policies, strategies and interventions geared towards unlocking barriers of entry for young girls and women, and the largely unemployed population,” the Minister said.
This year’s Women’s Month is celebrated under the theme, 'Accelerating Socio-Economic Opportunities for Women’s Empowerment'. The theme highlights the need to ensure that all women have access to participate equally in all areas of human endeavor.
Oppression of women
Despite various strides which have been achieved toward improving the status of women in society, Dlamini Zuma said the systemic oppression of women over time has left almost indelible marks that need redress.
“In the South African context, women in rural areas and the townships bear the most burden of generational systemic oppression. It is tragic that on the triple challenges of poverty, inequality and unemployment plaguing our country, women are the most affected.
“Violence in this country is gendered, with statistics from the South African Police Service indicating that about nine women are murdered daily, with countless others being sexually violated, abused and subjected to all manner of atrocities.
“Women continue to be paid far less than men for work of equal value. Women face food insecurity yet the majority of farm workers in Africa are women who do not own the land they labour and eat the crumbs that fall from the tables of those who own the means of production,” Dlamini Zuma said.
She noted that the World Bank’s 2023 report on 'Women, Business and the Law' reiterates that empowering women is a prerequisite for economic development.
“It is equally important to prioritise empowering the girl-child, particularly as today’s girls are tomorrow’s women. The success of any meaningful attempt to grow South Africa together hinges on ensuring that women, particularly those who have been systematically oppressed, are able to participate equally in all areas of human endeavor, specifically in the mainstream economy,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 08/08/2023 - 10:00