Day: October 5, 2024

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President Ramaphosa calls on all to support BELA Act


President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on everyone to put their weight behind implementing the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act so that all children receive a good quality education regardless of their circumstances.

‘The passage of the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act is part of ongoing efforts to build an education system that is more effective and more equitable.

‘Among other things, the Act provides for early learning foundations to be strengthened, promotes greater accountability of parents for their children’s learning and promotes inclusivity in the classroom,’ the President said on Saturday.

President Ramaphosa was speaking at the 24th instalment of the National Teaching Awards as the globe commemorates World Teacher’s Day at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng.

He explained that the spirit and purpose of this new legislation was to ensure there was uniformity and fairness in educational standards between schools and across the country.

Last month
, President Ramaphosa signed the Bill into law but delayed the implementation of two clauses 4 and 5, which deal with school admissions and language, by three months to make room for more discussion and deliberations after it received some opposition.

‘In the interests of inclusivity, we have created space for engagement among some concerned parties on aspects of the legislation. But that process cannot undermine the transformational nature of this law.’

Meanwhile, the President told the people gathered at the conference centre that in order to produce more learners who excel in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, South Africa needs to invest more in supporting and upskilling its teachers and arm them with necessary resources.

‘In some schools, resources are plenty, the schoolyard is safe, there are basic amenities, the pupil-teacher ratio is appropriate, and learning takes place in good conditions. But in others, educators struggle to obtain even the most basic resources for teaching, scho
ols lack safe toilets and running water, and crime and violence from outside the school inevitably finds its way in.’

However, according to the President, South Africa has made much progress in narrowing the gaps between schools.

He said government was working to strengthen the foundations of early learning to ensure successful education outcomes in the future.

The President announced that the education curriculum was being revised, updated and reformed to meet the needs of a rapidly changing world.

‘With the high rate of youth unemployment in our country, educators need to ensure that our schools are producing the skills our economy needs. They need to ensure that every school leaver has the confidence and capabilities that enable them to study further, find employment or be self-employed.

‘We are working to fully implement the three-stream model, which offers academic, vocational and occupational pathways for learners. Educators play an important role in identifying the best course for a learner.’

Shifting his focus to the National Teaching Awards, he noted that the enduring commitment to honouring educators speaks to their unique and treasured place in the country.

‘All of us are who we are because of the teachers we once had. I have the fondest memories of my own teachers at Tshilidzi Primary School in Soweto and Mphaphuli High School in Sibasa, Venda… All these years later, they still hold a special place in my heart,’ he told the room full of teachers.

The President described a good teacher as a role model who encourages a child to achieve their potential.

He took the time to congratulate those who were awarded today and acknowledged teacher unions and School Governing Bodies (SGBs) who are working with government to build a resilient education system that meets the challenges of the future.

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube thanked President Ramaphosa for his unwavering support not just for her but the sector.

‘The future leaders of our country deserves our fervent leadership.’

S
ource: South African Government News Agency

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President wishes the Jewish community well over the High Holy Days


President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished South Africa’s Jewish community a festive and mindful celebration of the High Holy Days, also known as Yamim Noraim or the Days of Awe, which began this week with Rosh Hashanah and will end next week with Yom Kippur.

‘The South African Jewish community forms an essential part of the spiritual and cultural diversity of our nation.

‘We wish the Jewish community at home and abroad a year of good health, strong family bonds, fellowship and success in all domains of life,’ said the President on Saturday.

‘This 10-day period leading up to Yom Kippur is a time for reconciliation and coming together, an occasion for us to engage in teshuvah, tefillah and tzedakah, and an opportunity to pray and work for peace in all corners of the world.’

Source: South African Government News Agency

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Shangula commissions 12-bed dialysis unit at Oshakati hospital


Minister of Health and Social Services , Dr Kalumbi Shangula , said they have identified the absence of dialysis services in public hospitals as an important priority that must be addressed . Shangula was speaking during the commissioning of a 12 – bed dialysis unit at Oshakati Intermediate Hospital on Friday , saying that for many years , State patients who require renal dialysis services had to travel long distances to access these services . According to Shangula , at times the government had to spend significant amounts of money referring State patients to private health facilities , and in the process , spent more than N . dollars 100 million annually . He indicated that since its completion in July this year , the unit has already treated over 67 patients , with 35 of them being new patients . Over 311 dialysis sessions have been conducted , a clear indication of the necessity and impact of this expansion . ‘ The commissioning of this unit reflects our dedication to providing vital services equitably an
d sustainably ,’ he said . He explained that the ministry had in 2016 , advertised a tender , inviting bids for the establishment of dialysis units at Windhoek Central Hospital , Oshakati and Rundu . However , the process could not proceed to finality due to some challenges . ‘ The ministry was thus compelled to restart the project at a later stage . In 2019 , the ministry restarted the process to establish dialysis units in strategic hospitals . These attempts were frustrated by the onset of COVID – 19 ,’ Shangula said . He added that in October 2021 , after the COVID pandemic subsided , the ministry reignited the project to establish dialysis units at identified hospitals . He noted that a number of strategic hospitals were identified and the number of haemodialysis machines were determined based on location and the number of cases . Shangula indicated that before this project , dialysis services in the State sector were only available for patients in intensive care units ( ICU ) at Oshakati Intermediate Ho
spital , having 5 haemodialysis machines , Rundu Intermediate Hospital , having 2 and Windhoek Central Hospital having 7 haemodialysis machines . ‘ Hence , the government remains committed to improving the healthcare landscape in Namibia , ensuring that essential services are brought closer to those in need and enhancing their collective efforts toward achieving Universal Health Coverage ,’ he said .

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

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Hunger and malnutrition contribute to school dropouts: Magerman


Hunger , malnutrition , and teenage pregnancy are the major factors pushing learners to drop out of school , the || Kharas Region Acting Director of Education , Arts and Culture , Jesmine Magerman , has said . In a speech read on her behalf at the Prevention and Reduction of School Dropout Campaign on Friday , Magerman said it is difficult for any learner to concentrate and learn when their basic needs are not being met . ‘ We must work together to ensure that all students have access to nutritious meals at school , so that they can focus on their education and thrive academically . Teachers must understand the situations of learners at home , their socioeconomic barriers , which can create insurmountable obstacles for young and vulnerable children ,’ she said . Magerman emphasised the importance of local churches , youth organisations , and schools collaborating with families to create support networks for learners , ensuring they remain in school . ‘ This can include after – school programmes and resources
for families . However , we also need support that includes weekends , as weekends are challenging for some parents and learners . It is then that temptations walk on two legs in the community , and our learners can stray from good paths ,’ she stressed . Information provided at the event indicated that about six learners dropped out of school last year across the region , while from January to June this year , a total of 21 learners dropped out . Suiderlig Secondary School principal , Rebbeka Enkali – Aupokolo , urged learners to prioritise their academic goals , citing that the future is tough and they need qualifications to secure their prospects . ‘ The professions that used to absorb most citizens , such as the defence force and the police , have also tightened their requirements . To become a police officer or a soldier today , you need 25 points in five subjects from Grade 11 , with an E symbol in English . Who knows , soon they may even require university degrees ,’ she stressed . Amabel Tjivava , a G
rade 8 learner at Suiderlig Secondary School , said , ‘ Dropping out of school is the easy way out , but it is not the solution . Every challenge you face is a lesson , and every lesson is a step closer to our goal or a better life . Even when people around you do not offer their support , be your biggest supporter because you are stronger than you think , and do not let setbacks define your future .’

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

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Mbumba commemorates World Teachers’ Day


President Nangolo Mbumba said that , as a former teacher , he recognises the invaluable role of educators in shaping the future of the nation . In a statement issued on Saturday , Mbumba joined the global community in commemorating World Teachers ‘ Day . This year , the day is being marked under the theme ” Valuing Teachers ‘ Voices : Towards a New Social Contract for Education .” The President stated that the theme resonates deeply with their collective commitment to ensuring that teachers ‘ voices are not only heard but actively shape the education system and its outcomes . ‘ The Government is committed to engaging our teachers in meaningful dialogue , providing them with the resources they need , and ensuring their voices are heard in every decision that affects education ,’ he said . He added that they will continue to invest in teacher development , improve working conditions , create learning environments responsive to the needs of all learners – particularly the most vulnerable – and support innovation
in education to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world . Moreover , the President indicated that the Ministry of Education , Arts and Culture is in the process of developing the Namibia Teaching Profession ( NTP ) Bill , a step towards aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 4 ( SDG 4 ) and the United Nations ( UN ) Transforming Education Summit ( TES ) agenda , as well as the Harambee Prosperity Plan II under Social Progression Goal 4 . He noted that the Professional Teachers Act will enhance the status of the teaching profession by ensuring professional excellence , setting clear ethical standards , and promoting ongoing skills development among educators . Mbumba said that , as they celebrate World Teachers ‘ Day , they should recommit themselves to ensuring that teachers are valued and respected . He added that they must continue to build an education system that recognises the indispensable role of teachers in the nation ‘ s development .

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

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Association to celebrate disc jockeys’ influence on Nigeria’s music, entertainment sector


Deejays Association of Nigeria (DJAN) in collaboration with Leadership Scorecard Magazine, is organising an awards to celebrate creative influence of Disc Jockeys (DJs) in Nigeria’s music and entertainment industry.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the upcoming 2024 Nigerian Deejays Awards, aimed at recognising unsung heroes of Nigeria’s music and entertainment industry will hold on Dec. 6, in Abuja.

Humphrey Onyima, Chief Executive Officer, Leadership Scorecard Magazine and organiser of the awards, stated this at a news conference on Friday in Abuja.

According to him, Nigeria’s music industry had witnessed explosive growth, based on its significant contributions to the global music scene.

Onyima, who is also the project consultant, said that the industry was thriving from the dominance of afrobeat to the infusion of traditional Nigerian rhythms in modern soundscapes.

‘However, while artists, producers, and music video directors are often celebrated in numerous awards shows, the critical rol
e of deejays(DJs) remains largely underrepresented and uncelebrated.

‘Notwithstanding, deejays are vital players in the music ecosystem. They shape trends, promote artists and serve as cultural ambassadors by introducing new sounds to local and global audiences.

‘Yet their contributions often go unnoticed. So based on that, Nigerian Deejays Awards seeks to fill the gaps by acknowledging and celebrating the creative influence of DJs in Nigeria’s music and entertainment landscape,’ he said.

The project consultant further said the awards ceremony aimed at recognising and celebrating the achievements of Nigerian DJs, who had contributed significantly to the growth of the music industry.

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‘It is to elevate the status of DJs by providing a platform that highlights their importance and influence within the entertainment ecosystem, as well as inspiring future generations of deejays, showcasing Disc jockey (DJ) as a legitimate and influential career path.

‘It aims at p
romoting professionalism within the DJ community by encouraging excellence, creativity and innovation, and also document the historical contributions of pioneering DJs who have shaped Nigeria’s sound culture,’ Onyima added.

According to him, the nomination process would allow DJAN members, as well as the public to nominate DJs through an online platform, when a jury of industry professionals would be selected to vet the final nomination.

He added that there would be performance and recognition during the show, where DJs would be required to perform throughout the award ceremony.

‘In aspects of collaboration and partnership, music streaming, nightclubs and event venues, DJ equipment manufacturers, telecommunication companies and government bodies will be involved in such celebrations.

‘The significance of the award is to recognise the crucial role that DJs play in promoting new artists, making and breaking hit songs by bringing global attention to Nigerian music.

‘By creating an annual competition for exc
ellence, which will motivate the DJs to continue raising the standard of their craft whether in mixing, live performance or music curation.

‘It will also expose them by opening opportunities for mentorship, collaboration and career growth among others,’ he said.

Also speaking, Prince Akim Edeh, National President of DJAN, said the awards ceremony, which happens to be the maiden edition, would be one of its kind in recent times.

See also Patriotism, citizens participation imperative to national devt – NOA

According to him, effort has been made to create awareness and they have also reached out to their partners to make the event a remarkable one.

‘DJAN is the king of entertainment, bearing in mind that every artist needs a DJ. The DJs have not been recognised in any category in many awards.

‘We are not happy about it, so we have decided to take the bull by the horns by making it the mother of all award, where others will partner to sustain their own,’ DJAN president said.

NAN also reports that the key a
wards categories include; Best Club DJ, Best Radio DJ, Best Afrobeat DJ, DJ of the Year( Overall Excellence), Best Female DJ, Best Event DJ.

Others were Breakthrough DJ of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award(Pioneering Contribution) and Electronic Music DJ of the Year.

The targeted audience are the DJs(emerging and established), musicians and producers, entertainment executives, media professionals, music enthusiasts, government and cultural agencies and youths interested in the creative industry.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria