Refugee and former car guard graduates with a PhD
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Western Cape
W Cape Education urges parents to apply for Grades 1 and 8 before closing date
W Cape Education urges parents to apply for Grades 1 and 8 before closing date
The Western Cape Department of Education has urged parents to apply for Grades 1 and 8 in 2025 before the online window for late applications closes on 12 May 2024.
Since the on-time admissions window for parents applying for a place for their child in Grade 1 or 8 in 2025 closed on 12 April, the provincial department said it received late applications for an additional 11 464 learners.
This brings to 114 144 the total number of learners whose parents have submitted applications for Grades 1 and 8 in 2025.
“We thank the parents who have already applied so far, as they are helping us to plan better for a place for their child in a school next year,” the department said.
According to data, 87% of applications have been captured on the online system by parents themselves.
The online admissions system is zero-rated and does not use any data.
However, if parents need in-person help capturing their application, they can visit their education district office for assistance.
Parents of Grade 1 and 8 learners, who did not apply before 12 May, will need to contact their district office for assistance as soon as possible thereafter.
“We urge parents not to wait until the last minute to apply,” the department said.
The window for Grade R applications and transfer requests for Grades 2 to 7 and 9 to 12 will run from 1 to 16 August.
Parents are reminded that they will only need to drop off their certified hard copies once they have received an offer from a school and accepted the offer.
The outcomes of the on-time applications online will start trickling in from 30 May and parents must accept or decline offers before 14 June.
The department is also encouraging them to confirm their choice of school speedily when they have received offers from multiple schools.
“These parents are essentially ‘double parking’ on the system, stopping schools from offering these places to other applicants until they make their choice.”
If a parent has not confirmed their choice by 14 June, the system will automatically confirm their top-ranked school that has made an offer and all other offers will then be removed, so that those places can be offered to other learners.
“Parents who do not receive an offer on 30 May should not be disheartened. Places always open up as parents confirm their final choices. We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to place every learner whose parents applied on time as quickly as possible,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 10:35
298 views
“Dismay” at Stellenbosch senate’s rejection of call for Gaza ceasefire
Meanwhile Nelson Mandela University senate supported a call for a ceasefire in Gaza earlier this week, and effectively an academic boycott of Israel
South Africa’s Tobacco Bill process faces scrutiny as experts uncover flaws.
[Pretoria, South Africa] – As we wrap VApril, a month dedicated to education and awareness about vaping, the Vapour Products Association of South Africa (VPASA) recommits itself to keeping the public informed about the ongoing process for South Africa’s Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill (the Tobacco Bill). Most recently, several public hearings …
George building collapse: numbers revised
George building collapse: numbers revised
A total of 81 construction workers have been confirmed to have been on site at the time a building collapsed in George Municipality in the Western Cape on Monday.
The revised number was confirmed on Thursday following a previous report of 75 people having been reported to have been on site when the incident happened.
Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi visited the site of the collapsed building, where he interacted with the local and provincial government to get an update from rescuers and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) inspectors from the department, who were dispatched to the site.
Briefing media, Nxesi said the police are currently "in control” at this stage and will be allowed to do their own work unhindered until their investigation is complete.
“At some stage, once they are done with their work, the police will hand over to the Department of Employment and Labour, which will be able to start with its own investigation. Our investigations are informed by the Occupational Health and Safety Act, in particular Section 31 and 32, [which guides what] normally happens when we face such incidents,” Nxesi said.
Giving the different statutory roles played by different levels of government and departments, the Minister said it was agreed that all parties will play their roles collaboratively and in support of one another.
“Any interested parties who want to do their investigations will do them, but we will also do our own investigation and we will be informed by the police once they are done. At the end, once we get the investigation of the police and our investigations, in particular, we will be able to say what we are going to do,” Nxesi said.
He emphasised that the department did not want to speculate on what transpired but will leave everything to the investigations.
“Once the investigations have been able to expose the facts, we will talk to that.”
The Minister noted that a number of national department Ministers, including Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Human Settlements, Police and Social Development, also have interest in the matter.
“We will be following through our people on the ground on what is happening. We were also informed that the Department of International Relations and Cooperation also has an interest because we [will not] be able to communicate with some of the families, in terms of the languages.
“We need to talk to the various missions who are here in South Africa to send their people… so they can communicate properly with the families,” Nxesi said.
He noted that while the department has compensation to give, this can only be done once all the people have been identified.
He said there is no timeline for the investigation, as it will depend on what is uncovered during the investigation, and the police will hand over the site to the department.
The Minister further appealed to the employer of the construction workers or the construction owners to come forward and talk with the families of the workers.
“Thus far, in terms of what I’ve been briefed, we do not know where they are,” Nxesi said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 15:29
179 views
Western Cape separatist loses complaint against Daily Maverick
A ruling by the Press Ombud has helped clarify clauses about fact versus opinion in the Press Code
Activists want 12 more pieces of public land used for housing
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Thinking Of Moving Your Family To The Cape?
FNB’s December 2023 Property Barometer shows that “sales attributed to relocation within SA (semi-gration)” were an estimated 11% of the volume of sales (down from a peak of 14% in 3Q22). Lightstone’s 2023 Migration figures show 6,406 new households bought in the Western Cape compared to 1,034 in KwaZulu-Natal and 1,971 in Gauteng. Lighstone noted …
Emergency personnel “true heroes” as 36 pulled from building site
Emergency personnel "true heroes" as 36 pulled from building site
The number of people retrieved from the collapsed five-storey building in George has risen to 36 as of Wednesday morning.
This means 39 others are currently unaccounted for, while seven people have been declared dead.
According to the Western Cape Premier, Alan Winde, the multi-disciplinary team of more than 200 emergency services personnel continues with its rescue operations at the site of the collapsed building on Victoria Street.
Seventy-five construction workers are said to have been on-site at the time of the collapse, which occurred around 2pm on Monday, 6 May 2024.
The Premier has thanked all those assisting during this tragedy.
“From the first responders who have been working tirelessly since Monday afternoon to save the lives of the trapped construction workers, to residents who turned out in their numbers to offer help in any way that they can. You all make me as your Premier of this extraordinary province humble and grateful for everything you have done and are still doing,” the Premier said after touring the site.
He said the teams on the ground are working tirelessly to rescue the remaining 39 individuals.
“I cannot express the emotions I felt yesterday when the site suddenly went completely quiet in the hope that our teams might be close to locating another survivor.”
READ I George tragedy: Call for organisations to prioritise safety in workplaces
He also took the time to express his gratitude to the Western Cape residents for stepping up when confronted with incidents of this nature.
He added that while an arduous few days still lie ahead as search and rescue efforts continue, the heart and soul that volunteers and non-government organisations (NGOs) have shown in offering support to the families of the affected construction workers has been extraordinary.
“There are so many to thank, and I know that there are countless more organisations and residents that I must still thank. Thank you to LoveGeorge, Gift of the Givers, SARZA, the Lions of George, Garden Route Food Pantry and Food Sock Meals, Neighbourhood Watches and Community Policing Forums, and all the individual residents who have helped.”
“Without us all pulling together, we would not have been able to respond to this incident in the way that we have. We must not give up hope. To all the emergency personnel assisting: you are true heroes,” he said.
Winde said his heart goes out to the families of the deceased.
“I share your pain. We will do everything we can to ensure we determine the exact cause of this incident. Every time one of those huge pieces of concrete is lifted from the site, I hope fervently for good news.”
On Monday, President Cyril Ramaphosa offered his deep condolences to the relatives and friends of the deceased.
“The President’s thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones as well as the families of close to 50 people who are trapped in the rubble,” his statement read.
He also wished the rescue team the best as they go about their operations and said the investigations into the cause of the incident must aim to bring closure to the community and prevent a repeat of this disaster. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 05/08/2024 - 10:10
109 views
Race to find 48 trapped construction workers
21 people have been rescued from the site of the collapsed building in George
Western Cape government sends resources to help in collapsed building
Western Cape government sends resources to help in collapsed building
Western Cape Premier, Alan Winde, says the provincial government is closely monitoring and sending resources to assist the emergency response to a building collapse in George, Southern Cape.
A multi-storey building under construction in Victoria Street, collapsed on Monday afternoon with 75 construction workers on the site at the time of the incident.
Winde said all the necessary support has been offered to emergency personnel to expedite their response.
“At the moment, officials are focused on saving lives. This is our top priority at this stage. The Western Cape Government is sending personnel support as well as emergency response support,” Winde said.
The Premier has urged the public to allow emergency services officials the space to carry out their duties and not put their own lives at risk by traveling to the site.
Five declared dead
Meanwhile, in a statement issued on Tuesday morning, George Municipality confirmed that a total of five people have been declared dead.
“Twenty-six patients have been removed from the rubble of the collapsed multi-story construction site, leaving 49 persons unaccounted for. Three teams of rescue personnel are currently working on three different areas within the site of the collapsed building.
“Safety equipment including safety goggles, headlamps and construction gloves are needed. If anyone can assist, please deliver to Garden Route District Municipality Fire Station, Pearl Road, Tamsui Industria,” the municipality said.
The municipality added that Victoria Street remains closed for access at the York Street intersection, as well as midway down the street and urged the public to access the municipal building via the Progress Street gate.
“The Victoria Street gate to the George Municipal Building is not accessible to pedestrians or vehicles. We request the public to please avoid this general area due to the constant presence of moving emergency vehicles and personnel,” the municipality said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 05/07/2024 - 09:56
370 views
Building collapses in George – dozens trapped
An apartment block still under construction collapsed in George on Monday afternoon, trapping about 46 people under the rubble. At least one body was found, according to SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Christopher Spies. George municipality said in a statement on Monday evening that 22 injured people had been rescued and transported to nearby medical facilities. Officials …
Real Estate Agent, Heinz Mueller, Triumphs in Red Feather Charity Run, Inspiring Hope and Resilience as He Completes 10km Distance
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Govt committed to upholding the rights of all, regardless of beliefs
Govt committed to upholding the rights of all, regardless of beliefs
Government is committed to engaging in continuous dialogue with inter-faith organisations on any issue affecting society, as it strives to provide equal respect and protection to both believers and non-believers, as well as to different religious denominations.
“As interfaith leaders, you represent the starting point from which acts of kindness and generosity should originate. I greatly esteem you as the leaders of our society, as you are the individuals who regularly interact with communities on a daily basis,” Deputy President Paul Mashatile said on Friday.
He was speaking at an engagement between inter-faith leaders and government in Cape Town.
The Deputy President said through weaving together the threads of different faiths and the tireless work of numerous organisations, the dark cloud of apartheid was finally vanquished, paving the way for a freedom that the country cherishes.
“It is important to always maintain a sense of gratitude for the achievements we have made and not let the pessimistic voices that solely focus on the negative aspects overshadow our progress.
“We built our progress on the unity of diverse faiths, treating every religion with equal respect. In stark contrast, the apartheid era unfairly elevated Christianity as the sole faith, causing division among South Africans.
“Today, it is truly remarkable to see people from diverse backgrounds joining forces to achieve great things, overcoming obstacles, and fostering unity for the betterment of our communities,” the Deputy President said.
Mashatile said government is committed to upholding the rights of all individuals, regardless of their beliefs or religious affiliations.
“We strive to provide equal respect and protection to both believers and non-believers, as well as to different religious denominations. Equally, our commitment to addressing social issues has been unwavering. Over the past 30 years, we have made remarkable strides in enhancing the well-being of South Africans.
“We have transitioned from an authoritarian state apparatus that overlooked the lives and living conditions of millions of our citizens to a democratic nation that guarantees equal protection for every individual,” Mashatile said.
He said a significant number of South Africans, especially those who are less fortunate, now have the opportunity to access education, healthcare and basic services.
“More than ever before, millions of our citizens are shielded from abject poverty by means of among others the redistribution policies that represent progress, such as the Land Reform Programme.
“Today, our churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples serve as cornerstones of society, providing vital education, feeding the poor and needy, and speaking out against injustices in our nation with a consistent and strong approach,” the Deputy President said.
Mashatile commended the work that the inter-faith communities in the Western Cape have done.
“I also appreciate the Western Cape inter-faith leaders for uniting most of these diverse religions and denominations under one umbrella body. We have a shared responsibility to bring all religions together in our efforts to promote national unity and social cohesion.
“This is a task that I began while serving as Minister of Arts and Culture, and it remains important to me even today.
“South Africa, with its widely diversified community, has encountered enormous obstacles to social cohesion and togetherness,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 05/03/2024 - 13:17
167 views
President tells ministers to set up task team on use of public land for housing
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An Explainer: What Drives the Cost of Cooking Oil
Have you ever wondered what’s driving the cooking oil prices in South Africa Understanding these dynamics can provide valuable insights into not only the global economy, but also the cost of a pantry staple we can’t do without! Let’s take a closer look at some of the factors that affect cooking oil prices, with Morne …
Supporting Education and Social Well-Being in Nuwerus Community
The Department of Local Government, led by the Service Delivery Integration Directorate, has showcased its dedication to enhanced education and social well-being within the Nuwerus community. As part of the Citizen Interface Pilot Programme in Matzikama District Municipality Ward 8, running from April 24th to 26th, 2024, the department has focused its efforts on providing vital resources to Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centers and NGOs.
Through a ceremonious equipment handover, alongside educational materials and related supplies, the department aims to address the pressing needs of deep rural areas, where communities often feel overlooked by governmental support. This initiative underscores the importance of fostering stronger connections between government entities and citizens, particularly in marginalized regions.
This endeavor has been made possible through collaborative efforts with a diverse array of stakeholders, including governmental departments at all levels, NGOs, Community-Based Organizations, and the private sector. Such multi-faceted cooperation reflects a comprehensive approach to community development, emphasizing the significance of collective action in tackling complex social challenges.
Of particular note is the director's emphasis on the initiative's broader impact beyond monetary assistance. By providing resources, energy, and forging partnerships, the aim is to instill hope and confidence among the citizens of Nuwerus, illustrating a nuanced understanding of community needs that extends beyond mere financial aid.
In summary, the Department of Local Government's proactive involvement in supporting education and social well-being in Nuwerus exemplifies a collaborative and citizen-centric approach to governance. These efforts not only strengthen the bond between government and communities but also lay the foundation for sustainable development in the region. As we move forward, let us focus on the work of the coordinated ministries to enhance the lived experiences of the citizens we serve.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government.
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Launch of the 2024 Western Cape Prestige Agri Awards
On 26 April 2024, the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDoA) announced the launch of the 2024 Western Cape Prestige Agri Awards (WCPAA). This esteemed event celebrates the invaluable contributions made by agri workers to the sustainability and growth of the agricultural sector in the Western Cape.
We are pleased to announce that Shoprite will once again partner with the department as the main sponsor of the competition, reaffirming their commitment to supporting the agricultural community.
The WCPAA features eleven categories in which agri workers will compete at the regional level across 15 different regions. Last year, over 1067 agri workers participated, and we anticipate an even greater turnout this year. Regional winners will advance to the provincial level, competing for the prestigious title of Western Cape Agri Worker of the Year. The overall winner will be revealed at a gala ceremony in November 2024.
This initiative, previously known as the Farm Worker of the Year competition, has been a cornerstone project for the department since its inception in 2002. Originally launched in the Hex Valley region with 36 participants, it has since expanded to encompass agri workers across the entire province.
Shoprite's continued sponsorship of the project, totalling R400 000 in gift vouchers for regional and provincial winners, demonstrates their unwavering support for this vital initiative. The WCPAA has become the leading social upliftment project of the Department, impacting the lives of agri workers and their families positively.
An independent evaluation conducted in 2015 underscored the significant impact of the competition, highlighting its role in enhancing the lives of participants and fostering positive perceptions of agri workers within their communities.
To date, over 16,000 agri workers in the Western Cape have participated in the competition, showcasing their knowledge and skills across various categories. The regional competitions cover 16 regions, providing a platform for workers to demonstrate their expertise and contribute to the growth of the agricultural sector.
Agri workers remain a priority for the WCDoA and their unhinging support amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic was pivotal in ensuring that the sector continued to grow, deeming them as “essential workers”. The WCPAA serves as an opportunity to honor and recognize these essential workers, every single day, for their dedication and resilience to the sunrise sector.
The WCDoA looks forward to hosting the 2024 WCPAA and celebrating the dedication and achievements of agri workers in our province.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government.
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