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Private sector an important player in education sector
Private sector an important player in education sector
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has called on the private sector to consider taking their involvement in the education sector to the next level.
The Minister highlighted that the private sector has the resources, expertise, and capacity to make an enormous impact on the education landscape.
In addition, the country has seen more private sector entities involved in education initiatives investing in infrastructure, providing technology, supporting teacher training, and even partnering with educational institutions to design relevant, future-oriented curricula.
The Minister was addressing the Partnerships for Education Business Breakfast held at the Johannesburg Council for The Disabled (JOCOD) in Lenasia on Monday.
The business breakfast was designed to foster meaningful dialogue and establish partnerships to alleviate budgetary constraints in the education sector.
Minister Gwarube used the event to outline her strategic priorities for the seventh administration and to discuss how the public-private sector collaboration can drive sustainable improvements in the education system.
“Today, I want to call on our private sector partners to consider taking their involvement in the education sector to the next level.
“As South Africa’s seventh administration in the Government of National Unity [GNU], we are fully committed to improving education outcomes across the country.
“We recognise that this cannot be achieved by government alone. The private sector has a significant role to play, and we are here to facilitate, support, and collaborate with you in ways that make the greatest impact,” she said, adding that a step-change investment in education means more than just financial support, it means active participation.
The Minister invited the private sector partners to work closely with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) to co-create programs that build the skills needed for a competitive and productive economy.
“We need your input, your insights, and your innovation to help shape our education system in a way that prepares learners for real-world challenges and opportunities.”
Investing in quality education
With the country having ushered in a GNU in May, the Minister emphasised that education was an important issue that everyone can agree on, regardlessof their political inclinations.
She said every single South African has a vested interest in the quality of the nation’s education sector while adding that since the dawn of democracy, much has been done to provide access to basic education.
However, 30 years later, she said the nation now needed to shift its focus to quality education.
The Minister referred to an international study that revealed that about the 80% of learners who were tested (as a sample) could not read for meaning in any language.
While this was a small sample, she said that this was gravely concerning.
“If we do not fix literacy – which is reading, writing and counting – the DBE had failed on its core function. This is why every single priority in the seventh administration speaks to this goal.
“We must make sure through early child learning; we can achieve the goal of reading for meaning by Grade 4. Government has a tendency to focus only on the quality of outcomes like the matric pass rate – but not on the foundations of learning.
“I endeavour to reorientate this planning and thinking. Let us get the basics right and we will achieve a great deal in the education sector,” the Minister said.
Minister Gwarube emphasised that quality education is the foundation upon which the country can build a prosperous future.
“It is the tool that will empower our young people to innovate, to lead, and to contribute meaningfully to their communities and economies.
“However, to achieve this, our education systems must be strong, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of a modern workforce.”
She further emphasised the need to provide not only foundational literacy and numeracy but also the skills necessary for the jobs and challenges of the 21st century which are digital literacy, critical thinking, adaptability, and creativity.
Priorities
Touching on the priorities, the Minister said the 7th Administration has identified several key priorities which include improved access to and strengthen the quality of Early Childhood Development (ECD).
“A strong foundation is important for literacy and numeracy. Early Childhood Development sets the stage for lifelong learning and personal development. We want every child in South Africa to leave our ECDs with a solid foundation in reading and counting,” the Minister said.
Other priorities are improving literacy and numeracy across all phases of schooling, special education, accelerated teacher development and safety in schools.
“Learners need safe, conducive environments where they can focus on their studies without interruption. This includes basic facilities such as dignified flushing toilets, but also learning environments free from crime, extortion rackets, contaminated food products and other dangerous chemical,” she said.
The Minister noted the high number of learners who have fallen ill and children from Naledi in Gauteng who tragically lost their lives due to food bought from local spaza shops and consumed on school premises.
“Last week Wednesday I began a process to ban the dangerous chemical known as organophosphate from all schools in South Africa. This is a proactive measure to prevent the risk of this chemical ever being used as a pesticide in any of our schools,” she said.
READ | Food poisoning incidents managed at highest level, says President Ramaphosa
– SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 11/11/2024 - 14:39
71 views
Minister Tolashe wishes social grant beneficiaries well in matric exams
Minister Tolashe wishes social grant beneficiaries well in matric exams
Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe has sent well wishes to the beneficiaries of social grants who will be writing their National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.
According to the records of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) there are 696 886 social grants beneficiaries writing the NSC exams which commenced on Monday.
The department has, through SASSA, invested R46 677 286 420 in the Class of 2024 from 1997 to current financial year to support the learners.
In the 2023 academic year, 556 133 social grant beneficiaries wrote their final matric exams and 451 578 passed, achieving an 81.3% pass rate.
The Minister said this success rate is testament to the substantive positive impact and outcomes of comprehensive social security on the health and well-being of children.
“Social assistance is the biggest government programme to deal with poverty. As the class of 2024 sits for the final examination, we understand the path that you have travelled, and we wish you the best of luck as you write your examinations,” the Minister said.
Social grants beneficiaries are encouraged to apply to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for assistance with tertiary education. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 10/22/2024 - 14:39
115 views
President seeks better prospects for matric Class of 2024
President seeks better prospects for matric Class of 2024
President Cyril Ramaphosa has in his weekly newsletter, extended his best wishes to learners writing their matric exams, acknowledging the hard work, resilience and perseverance they have shown in preparing for this crucial milestone.
Today marks the commencement of the 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams, with over 880 000 candidates across South Africa sitting for their matric exams.
“On behalf of the government, I wish all our learners well at this challenging and exciting time. The Class of 2024 entered Grade 8 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and have had to receive considerable learning support to overcome the resultant gaps in their learning,” the President said on Monday.
READ | All systems go for 2024 matric exams
The first citizen praised the students who are rewriting their exams through the Department of Basic Education (DBE) Second Chance Programme, commending their determination to improve their academic outcomes.
In the weeks leading up to the exams, learners across the country have participated in extra lessons, engaged in revision with educators, and attended learner support programmes facilitated by provincial education departments.
The President highlighted the collaboration between the DBE, provincial education authorities, school governing bodies, and families in equipping learners with the resources needed for success.
“I commend our nation’s educators for their commitment to our matriculants as they reach the end of their secondary school journey.
“At the annual National Teaching Awards ceremony earlier this month, I spoke of teachers as being like devoted gardeners, whose attention, guidance and encouragement nurtures our nation. The successes that the Class of 2024 will undoubtedly achieve will be in no small part due to the efforts of our country’s devoted teachers,” the President said.
As the exams commence, all necessary systems have been put in place to ensure a smooth examination period.
The Department of Basic Education, in collaboration with Umalusi, has conducted audits of over 9 200 exam centres, vetted exam markers, and approved question papers, including those adapted for learners with special needs.
Additionally, stringent measures have been implemented to prevent question paper leaks, fraud, and cheating, including the appointment of additional invigilators and enhanced security measures, such as the use of CCTV at some venues.
President Ramaphosa expressed gratitude to the matric candidates for signing the NSC Examination Code of Conduct, which commits them to maintaining academic honesty during the exams.
According to the DBE, by signing the Matric Exam Pledge, learners publicly commit to upholding ethical standards during the exams and remaining focused on their goals.
READ | Minister, learners sign Matric Exam Pledge for Class of 2024
Integrating young people into the workforce
The President used the occasion to reflect on the importance of integrating the Class of 2024 into the workforce or further education after their exams.
“The unemployment rate among young people aged 15-24 stands at 60.8%, according to the latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey.
“Just as preparing our nation’s young people to achieve success in this exam is a collaborative effort, there is much more that partners like the private sector can do to hire young people.”
To address this, the President has called on employers to relax work experience requirements for entry-level positions and make use of incentives, such as learnership agreements, discretionary grants, and the Employee Tax Incentive, to hire young people.
The incentive is aimed at encouraging employers to hire young and less experienced work seekers.
The President also emphasised the legal obligation of employers to prioritise hiring South African citizens or permanent residents before considering foreign nationals for positions, underscoring the need to provide more opportunities for young South Africans.
“Recent business premises inspections by the Department of Home Affairs and the Department of Employment and Labour have thrown into sharp relief the contentious issue of some employers preferring to employ foreign nationals and illegal immigrants.
“Employers must instead open up more opportunities for young South Africans entering the job market. They need to remember that by law they have to ensure that no suitable South African citizen or permanent resident is available to fill a position before employing a foreign national. This is established practice around the world,” the President said.
READ | Employment and Labour blitz inspections and raids yield results
The President concluded by urging all sectors of society to work together to ensure that the hard work of the Class of 2024 is rewarded with employment, further education, and training opportunities.
He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the youth in their journey toward a brighter future.
“As all of society, we have a responsibility to ensure that the morale of the Class of 2024 is boosted by knowing their hard work and sacrifices will be rewarded. Let us continue to work together to ensure that the latest cohort of matriculants find the opportunities for employment or further education and training that they deserve,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 10/21/2024 - 12:32
250 views
Matriculants encouraged to apply for NSFAS funding
Matriculants encouraged to apply for NSFAS funding
As the 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations kick-off today, Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Nobuhle Pamela Nkabane, has reminded all matriculants to seize the opportunity to apply for funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
“The application window will close on 15 December 2024, and there are now just 55 days to submit applications. Eligible students are urged to apply promptly to secure financial support for their post-school education,” Nkabane said.
Nkabane extended well wishes to all matriculants, who sat for the National Senior Certificate Exams, with learners writing languages, English and Afrikaans Paper 3.
Nkabane said this pivotal moment marks the culmination of years of hard work and encourages the Class of 2024 to approach their exams with determination and confidence.
With Just over 880 000 candidates, including 727 121 full-time and 155 215 part-time candidates from across South Africa sit for this year's matric exams, across South Africa, Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, has assured the public of the department’s preparedness to administer the exams smoothly.
Nkabane highlighted a range of opportunities available within the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) system, which is open to all matriculants seeking further education and skills development.
The PSET system includes:
• Community Education and Training (CET) colleges: Offering skills development and general education for students who want to continue learning.
• Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges: Focusing on practical skills and technical knowledge to equip students for employment and self-employment.
• Higher Education institutions: Universities and higher education providers offering degree and diploma programmes.
“The PSET sector supports the National Skills Development Strategy (2030) goals to address the nation’s skills development priorities and drive a skills revolution. Explore these pathways and pursue your ambitions through the diverse opportunities available in South Africa's PSET sector,” Nkabane said.
For more information on NSFAS applications and PSET options, visit: https://www.nsfas.org.za, https://www.dhet.gov.za/. - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 10/21/2024 - 12:44
166 views
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Celebrating This Year’s 25 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars
As Africa's energy sector continues to grow, a new generation of women is breaking barriers and redefining leadership in this critical industry. The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (www.EnergyChamber.org) proudly announces the 2024 edition of the 25 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars – a group of outstanding individuals whose innovation, perseverance and passion are transforming the landscape of African energy. These trailblazers are not only reshaping a traditionally male-dominated field but are also playing a vital role in the journey to end energy poverty by 2030. The AEC proudly honors these women as they lead the charge toward a more sustainable and equitable energy future.
In alphabetical order:
Amena Bakr, Senior Research Analyst, Energy Intelligence
Amena Bakr is a Senior Research Analyst at Energy Intelligence. Specializing in the energy transition, corporate strategy and market analysis, Bakr leads insights on oil markets, OPEC policies and political trends in the Middle East and Gulf Arab region. Her previous roles include Chief OPEC Correspondent and Dubai Deputy Bureau Chief, where she earned accolades such as the OPEC Award for Best Journalist and the IAEE Excellence in Written Journalism Award. Bakr holds a BA in Business Administration from the Arab Academy for Science, Technology & Maritime Transport, Egypt.
Amoetsoe Mkwena, Senior Associate, Watson Farley & Williams (Middle East)
Amoetsoe Mkwena is a Senior Associate at Watson Farley & Williams, specializing in energy and infrastructure with a focus on Africa. She advises on international projects, including the $15 billion Simandou project in Guinea. Mkwena's expertise includes power, renewables, oil and gas, and mining. Her legal skills and ability to bridge cultural divides make her a key player in Africa's energy sector.
Asha Amani, General Manager, INTERAFCON
Asha Amani is the General Manager at INTERAFCON, where she blends strategy and leadership to drive growth in complex energy projects. With seven years in Industrial Engineering and five years in the energy sector, Amani excels in business strategy, opportunity identification and project management. Her previous role as a Business Development Consultant at Tetco Consulting focused on delivering tailored solutions for the energy, engineering, and construction sectors.
Blandine Biaou, Geological Engineer, Head of Research and Prospection Department, SNH-Benin
Blandine Biaou, Head of the Research and Prospection Department at SNH-Benin, specializes in hydrocarbon exploration. She has optimized Benin's energy sector through resource management and contract revisions. Biaou has developed a modern data center and interactive database, contributing to national projects and representing Benin in international conferences, positioning it as a hydrocarbon hub.
Charné Hollands, Deputy Editor, Energy Capital & Power
Charné Hollands is the Deputy Editor at Energy Capital & Power, the leading investment platform for the African energy sector. She produces content on the entire energy value chain in Africa, with a focus on oil, gas, renewable energy and energy policy. Hollands holds a Master's in Media Studies from the University of Cape Town and has co-authored African Energy Chamber: Road to Recovery.
Emokiniovo Dafe-Akpedeye, Managing Partner, Compos Mentis Legal Practitioners
Emokiniovo Dafe-Akpedeye, a leading dispute resolution lawyer, specializes in complex oil and gas cases. She has represented Shell Petroleum and serves as company secretary for the Ebendo Host Community Trust Board. With degrees from Oxford and Bristol, she shapes oil and gas law and is implementing digital solutions to streamline board operations.
Fatimat Adenike Olanrewaju, General Field Engineer, SLB
Fatimat Adenike Olanrewaju, a Chemical Engineering graduate, is a General Field Engineer at SLB, focusing on wellhead installations and emissions reduction. She excels in a male-dominated field and leads community service through SLB's SEED initiative, advocating for gender diversity and mentoring.
Gracia Munganga, Senior Technical Advisory, ABT Global
With a Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Cape Town, Gracia oversees operations for the company, which has been designing and commissioning solar PV systems across sub-Saharan Africa since 2018. Her career includes roles at GreenCape, Anaergia Africa, the Climate Innovation Centre South Africa (CIC-SA), and the Carbon Trust.
Ifeoma Adeoye, CEO, IMSE Energy Resources Limited
Ifeoma Adeoye, CEO of IMSE Energy Resources Limited, leads the company in EPCI services and innovative crude evacuation technology. A graduate of the University of Manchester and Warwick, she also founded Business Nest Investments and BNI Insurance Brokers Limited, to empower and protect people and businesses through microfinance and insurance.
Jamilla Massamba, Health Safety and Environment Manager, SLB Congo
Jamilla Massamba, Health, Safety & Environment Manager at SLB Congo, leads HSE initiatives across Africa. With a Master's in Environmental Management Sciences, she has conducted over 100 audits and received awards for her work. Massamba also mentors young women in STEM and leads green energy projects.
Janice Faria, CEO, Enagol: Energias de Angola
As CEO of Enagol, Janice Faria has elevated the company's national and international profile. Under her leadership, Enagol competes globally and services International Oil Companies, setting a precedent for local enterprises in the global market.
Jocelyne Machevo, Communication, Commercial & Marketing Manager, Vivo Energy Mozambique
Jocelyne Machevo, formerly with Eni Mozambique, played a key role in the Coral FLNG Project and led the company's local brand transformation. Now at Vivo Energy Mozambique, she focuses on energy transition and decarbonization projects.
Lilian Kamanja, Electrical Engineer, Kenya Power
Lilian Kamanja is a Renewable Energy Specialist at Kenya Power with over nine years of experience in electrical engineering, network operations, and renewable energy development. She holds a BSc from the University of Nairobi and an M.Tech from IIT Delhi, focusing on renewable energy projects that enhance power accessibility and reliability.
Kanni Touray, Deputy Director General, Petroleum Commission, The Gambia
Kanni Touray, The Gambia's youngest and first female Deputy Director General at the Petroleum Commission, has enhanced the organization's efficiency and visibility. She champions sustainable development and energy transition, positioning The Gambia as a growing player in the global energy market.
Lizette Bouddhou, Human Resources Manager, SLB Congo and Gabon SLB
Lizette Bouddhou, HR Manager at SLB Congo and Gabon, drives diversity and workforce development. She leads recruitment and training initiatives, boosts employee engagement, and advances community outreach through educational partnerships, supporting women in STEM.
Maggie Mutesi, Managing Editor, Mansa Media
Maggie Mutesi is the Managing Editor at Mansa Media, with over 15 years of experience in major media outlets including CNN, BBC and CNBC. Her reporting spans over 30 African countries, focusing on trade and investments. At the BBC, she managed BBC Africa's daily live program, Money Daily. Mutesi has also extensively covered the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement, working with the African Union and Afrochampions Initiative to enhance awareness among Africa's private sector.
Marilia Sitoe, Subsea Engineer, Eni Rovuma Basin
Marilia Sitoe, a Subsea Engineer at Eni Rovuma Basin, focuses on optimizing Mozambique's gas sector. Her work includes deep-water gas production and subsea infrastructure for Coral South FLNG. Sitoe's research supports Mozambique's economic growth and sustainability goals.
Mervin Azeta, Engineer, SLB
Mervin Azeta, a leader at SLB, has advanced from field engineer to corporate strategist. Recognized for her impact on African communities and the global industry, she is active in non-profit boards and connects young Africans with top leaders, fostering learning and inspiration.
Munolwisho Elizabeth Ipangelwa, Green Hydrogen Advisor, GIZ
Munolwisho Elizabeth Ipangelwa, Green Hydrogen Advisor at GIZ, advocates for women in oil and gas and green hydrogen development in Namibia. She has educated over 200 Namibians and leads green industrialization studies to boost local industries and reduce youth unemployment.
Ozioma Agu, Partner, Stren & Blan Partners
Ozioma Agu, a Partner at Stren & Blan Partners, excels in high-profile energy and infrastructure transactions. Her work includes advising on Mobil and Shell divestments and renewable projects. Agu has earned awards for her expertise in oil and gas and green hydrogen.
Pauline Murari, Contracts Manager SLB Angola, Central and East Africa
Pauline Murari, Contracts Manager at SLB, is known for her negotiation skills and leadership. She has driven growth in SLB's regional portfolio and contributed to projects like the East African Crude Oil Pipeline. Murari supports STEM education and local development.
Pearl Enyam Akosua Akude, Business Line Job Delivery Lead, SLB
Pearl Enyam Akosua Akude, with over 35 wells drilled, is a leader in the energy sector. She handles complex projects, trains engineers, and has contributed to innovations like TerraSphere and Net Zero Development in Africa, impacting the region's energy landscape.
Rita Bagaine Kagoro, Talent Acquisition Manager SLB: Angola, Central and East Africa
Rita Bagaine Kagoro, a Ugandan Petroleum Engineer, has seven years of experience and holds degrees from China University of Petroleum and Delft University of Technology. Her roles include Measurements and Logging While Drilling Engineer and Drilling Product Engineer. Kagoro has innovated drilling technologies to enhance efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions. She is passionate about leadership, mentorship, and advocating for diversity in hiring and women in energy.
Tania Silva, CEO, Angola LNG Marketing
Tânia Silva is the CEO of Angola LNG Marketing, the company's first female and youngest CEO. She oversees LNG sales, liquids contracts, and the shipping fleet. Previously, Silva was Head of Non-Operated Assets at Sonangol Gás e Energias Renováveis, S.A., where she managed non-operated assets and contributed to renewable energy projects. Her career is marked by leadership and innovation in the energy sector.
Tokollo Matsabu, Women Leader in Energy & Climate Fellow, Atlantic Council
Tokollo Matsabu is a 2024 Women Leaders in Energy and Climate Fellow and Director at Patlong Advisory, a consulting firm focused on energy programs and carbon sequestration in Africa. She is pursuing an MS in Global Energy and Climate Policy at the University of London's School of Oriental & African Studies, with a focus on critical minerals. Matsabu has a background in financial journalism and has conducted risk analyses for various stakeholders in the Global South. She holds a Bachelor's degree in International Relations, Media and Writing from the University of Cape Town.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
Pravin Gordhan Was That Rare Thing: An Honest Politician
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Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders
The Mandela Washington Fellowship, begun in 2014, is the flagship program of President Obama's Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) that empowers young leaders through academic coursework, leadership training, and networking. In 2016, the Fellowship provided nearly 1,000 outstanding young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa with the opportunity to hone their skills at a U.S. higher education institution with support for professional development after they return home.
Ideal candidates are self-identified leaders, aged 25 to 35, with proven accomplishment in promoting innovation and positive change in their organizations, institutions, communities, and countries.
U.S.-based Activities
Academic and Leadership Institutes: Each Mandela Washington Fellow takes part in a six- week academic and leadership institute at a U.S. university or college in one of three tracks: business and entrepreneurship, civic leadership, or public management.
Summit: Following the academic component of the Fellowship, the Fellows visit Washington, D.C. for a summit. During the three-day event, Fellows take part in networking and panel discussions with U.S. leaders from the public, private, and non-profit sectors.
Professional Development Experience: Selected Fellows remain in the U.S. to participate in a six-week professional development experience with U.S. non-governmental organizations, private companies, and governmental agencies related to their professional interests and goals.
Africa-based Activities
Upon returning to their home countries, Fellows continue to build the skills they have developed during their time in the United States through support from U.S. embassies, Regional Leadership Centers, the YALI Network, and customized programming from affiliated partners. Mandela Washington Fellows have access to ongoing professional development opportunities, mentoring, networking and training, and seed funding to support their ideas, businesses, and organizations.
Application Information
The application includes basic information and questions about the applicant's professional and academic experience, including educational background; honors and awards received; extracurricular and volunteer activities; and English language proficiency. A résumé is also requested (with dated educational and professional background), and personal information (name, address, phone, email, country of citizenship). Additional elements, such as letters of recommendation or university transcripts, are OPTIONAL and may supplement your application.
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, socio-economic status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. The Mandela Washington Fellowship is open to young African leaders who meet the following criteria:
- Are between the ages of 25 and 35 on or before the application deadline, although exceptional applicants ages 21-24 will be considered;
- Are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the United States;
- Are eligible to receive a United States J-1 visa;
- Are not employees or immediate family members of employees of the U.S. Government (including a U.S. embassy or consulate, USAID, and other U.S. Government entities);
- Are proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English (applicants who are deaf should refer to the English Language instructions on the Resources page);
- Are citizens of one of the following countries: Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Republic of the Congo, Cote d'Ivoire, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, or Zimbabwe;
- Are residents of one of the above countries; and
- Are not Alumni of the Mandela Washington Fellowship.
Please note that Fellows are not allowed to have dependents, including spouses and children, accompany them during the Fellowship. The U.S. Department of State and IREX reserve the right to verify all information included in the application. In the event of a discrepancy, or if information is found to be false, the application will immediately be declared invalid and the applicant ineligible.
Selection Process
The Mandela Washington Fellowship selection process is a merit-based open competition. After the deadline, all eligible applications will be reviewed by independent readers. Following this review, chosen semi-finalists will be interviewed by the U.S. embassies or consulates in their home countries. Selected semi-finalists will be required to participate in these in-person interviews in their home country within Africa. If advanced to the semi-finalist round, applicants must provide a copy of their international passport (if available) or other government-issued photo identification at the time of the interview. Selected Finalists are required to attend the mandatory Pre-Departure Orientation in their home country within Africa. The following criteria will be used to evaluate applications (not in order of importance):
- A proven record of leadership and accomplishment in business or entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and/or public/government service;
- A demonstrated commitment to public or community service, volunteerism, or mentorship;
- The ability to work cooperatively in diverse groups and to respect the opinions of others;
- Strong social and communication skills;
- An energetic, positive, and flexible attitude;
- A demonstrated knowledge of, interest in, and professional experience in the preferred sector/Fellowship track and concrete goals for applying lessons knowledge and skills gained from the Fellowship to current and/or future work; and
- A commitment to return to Sub-Saharan Africa and contribute skills and talents to build and serve their communities.
Learn More
Application Resources
Got questions? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions about the Fellowship application to learn answers to common queries.
Check out our Resources page to download and learn more about:
- Instructions for the Fellowship Application
- Information for Prospective Fellows with Disabilities
- Information for Prospective Fellows Who Are or May Become Pregnant
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of U.S. Embassy in Namibia.
Tinywow AI – How Does It Stack Up?
With the plethora of AI tools available – each of them promising to make your life easier, richer and more fun we at MyPR have to say that we are still on the fence as to which one is our favourite. Of course if you show us one that is for free that is the …
Condolences for activist and poet, James Matthews
Condolences for activist and poet, James Matthews
President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his condolences to the family and friends of poet, writer and political and cultural activist James Matthews.
Matthews, who was an Esteemed Member of the National Order of Ikamanga, passed away at the age of 95 in Cape Town over the weekend.
“James Matthews’s voice will ring in our consciousness following his departure and we will remain captivated and inspired by the rage and elegance with which he articulated the stark struggles of the oppressed.
“We will be comforted by the many works he has left for us to revisit and by our memories of his appearances at rallies, ghoembas, the frontlines of street protest and intimate circles of kindred creatives where, beret askew on his head, he would feed the souls and fighting spirit of those around him. May he now rest in peace,” President Ramaphosa said.
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde also conveyed his condolences.
“As prolific and talented as James Matthews was, he was so much more than just a writer and poet; he was integral to the anti-apartheid movement, giving a powerful voice through his writing to the oppressed. He was an important part of our province and country's artistic fabric. He will be sorely missed and his contribution rightly celebrated.
“I extend the condolences of myself and our whole government to James’ family, friends, loved ones and all those who knew him. We celebrate him and the lives that he touched. We also know that he lives on through the many other artists he inspired,” Winde said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 09/08/2024 - 12:21
415 views
Correctional Services Committee Hold Informative Session on Parole Boards and Correctional Supervision
The Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services today held an informative and frank engagement regarding correctional supervision and parole boards in South Africa.
The committee was briefed by the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) on the structure and functions, challenges, and successes, plans to address identified challenges, and progress in legislation to overhaul the parole system.
Committee Chairperson Ms Kgomotso Anthea Ramolobeng said the committee extensively discussed all the matters, with a key focus on medical parole. “The committee commends the presentation. Our questions and concerns were mostly covered. Some of the statistics on medical parolees and the way forward in terms of vacancies will be addressed to the committee in writing to further interrogate this matter,” she said.
The committee heard there are currently 52 correctional supervision and parole boards (CSPB) in the country, whose main function is to consider offenders for possible placement on parole and correctional supervision. The Correctional Services Act (CSA) provides that any sentenced offender may be considered for placement on medical parole by the National Commissioner, the CSPB or the Minister. The Minister must establish a Medical Parole Advisory Board (MPAB) to provide an independent medical report to the National Commissioner, the CSPB or the Minister.
The MPAB must make a recommendation to the National Commissioner, the CSPB or the Minister on whether it is appropriate to grant medical parole. The committee heard that the CSA provides a list of medical conditions for consideration by the MPAB when assessing an offender's medical parole application.
Regarding deaths of inmates while awaiting medical parole outcomes, the committee heard that during the 2023/24 financial year, 22 offenders died before their medical parole applications could be finalised. During the same financial year, 85 offenders had applied for medical parole, four of whom were released on normal parole, 43 of whom were recommended for medical parole, 13 were not recommended and 22 died prior to their applications process being completed.
“We have raised concerns. We noted that vacancies exist in some of these boards, which could be a contributing factor. The department will furnish us with further information we required,” Ms Ramolobeng emphasised.
Ms Ramolobeng further stated that some committee members had concerns about inmates who were granted medical parole as they were terminally ill, but more than a decade later they are still to be found functioning well in society.
The DCS said that statistics relating to this issue will be provided to the committee in writing. However, the committee was assured that the board reviewing such matters is expert in the health field. The DCS conceded that such exceptional cases do exist but maintained that the number is small.
“The department will provide us with the statistics of such matters, but they have assured us in the meantime that that figure is generally low. We will engage once we received the information requested,” said Ms Ramolobeng.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) Chairperson Disappointed by Deputy Minister’s No-Show for Committee Meeting
The Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) today decided unanimously to adjourn a hearing on the National Skills Fund (NSF) and the National Students Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). This is due to the late and unjustifiable withdrawal from the meeting of the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Mr Buti Manamela, who chose instead to attend the launch of an academic programme in Johannesburg.
“The non-appearance of the deputy minister is unacceptable. The primary role of the committee and Parliament is to hold the executive to account and the committee is not prepared to entertain late, unjustifiable withdrawals by members of the executive. The hearing will be rescheduled to a date to be announced in due course, where we expect the minister or deputy minister to appear in person,” said SCOPA Chairperson Mr Songezo Zibi.
Committee members from all political parties represented in the committee voiced their extreme disappointment at the deputy minister's failure to appear, after he had delegated political accountability to departmental officials. Mr Zibi will be writing a letter to the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Ms Nobuhle Nkabane, and the Deputy President, Mr Paul Mashatile, to ask them to take stern action and ensure that the committee is briefed by the executive in accordance with the rules.
Mr Manamela and the delegation from his department were expected to brief the committee on various matters relating to the NSF and the NSFAS and on investigations into the two entities conducted by the Special Investigations Unit. The committee is disappointed that it cannot address issues affecting NSFAS and yet thousands of students are affected by its inefficiencies. The committee is also aggrieved that the money spent to fly departmental staff to Cape Town is wasteful expenditure.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
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