Lerato Mbhiza

Build One South Africa (BOSA) leader Mmusi Maimane said his party would be sending a rescue plan to the education director-general and raised concerns about the 30% pass mark for the National Senior Certificate and other Basic Education examinations.

Speaking in Johannesburg on Sunday, Maimane said while the focus was on an increased pass rate, a 100% pass rate would make little to no difference when students could pass with 30% for fundamental subjects.

Maimane has been a vocal critic of the country’s 30% pass mark, saying it undermines the country’s youth. 

Maimane proposed an overhaul of the country’s education system, including an increase in the pass mark to 50%.

“Let’s increase the matric pass mark to 50%, setting higher standards for excellence in crucial subjects like Maths and Physical Science,” Maimane said. 

“Establish an independent education ombud, the Inspector General of Education, to ensure accountability and address issues of corruption.

“Raise salaries for educators, attract younger talent, and curtail the power of teacher unions to enhance the quality of learning.

“Conduct a nationwide teacher skills audit to identify and address deficiencies, ensuring proficiency in teaching and subject matter.”

Maimane believes his party’s range of interventions are crucial steps toward rescuing the country’s education system.

“Education is the cornerstone of our nation’s prosperity. BOSA envisions an educational landscape characterized by affordability, accessibility, and quality from early schooling to tertiary degrees. Our goal is to equip every South African with the skills to earn well, realise their potential, and compete in the digital economy.

“The current state of our education system demands urgent intervention. We face a critical shortage of skills, and our performance in human skills development, especially in digital skills, is underwhelming. We must address this crisis to meet the demands of the evolving job market.

INSIDE POLITICS

Edwin Naidu

Embattled funding agency, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), is under pressure from civil society body, the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA), over another crisis brewing around student accommodation. 

“OUTA can confirm that we have been alerted to this by concerned accommodation providers who are still – at this very late stage – waiting to hear whether NSFAS has approved their accommodation for returning and new students,” said Rudie Heyneke, the head of investigations at OUTA at the weekend.

“We are aware of students in Cape Town who have been spending the last two weeks sleeping on the streets since the NSFAS accommodation portal won’t allow them access to look for available accommodation. Landlords, in turn, are not allowed to give students access to accommodation without pre-approval by NSFAS.”

OUTA, which focuses on exposing government corruption and the abuse of taxes and public funds in South Africa, has called on Minister of Higher Education, Science Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, to step aside pending a probe into NSFAS. 

Earlier in January, OUTA published a damning expose on the corruption at the national student funding body, linking Nzimande to kickbacks for the South African Communist Party which he leads. 

Amid calls for him to resign – or President Cyril Ramaphosa to give him the boot – Nzimande called a media conference two weeks ago, threatening legal action. 

OUTA told Inside Education it has not received summons from the Minister. 

A request for comment from Ramaphosa’s office on whether it would act against Nzimande went unanswered. 

On Friday, OUTA again placed accountability on Nzimande, considering a looming student accommodation crisis.

“It is our view that Minister Blade Nzimande should be asked to step aside while a full, independent investigation into allegations of widespread corruption at NSFAS is being conducted,” said Heyneke.

According to OUTA, corrupt syndicates have infiltrated NSFAS and linked to other departments within the department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation and the system of accommodation allocations and accreditation has all but collapsed.

OUTA claimed that at least 11 000 students are awaiting outstanding payments of their monthly allowances and thousands more waiting for NSFAS to settle their outstanding tuition fees at TVET colleges and universities. The new crisis is around the availability of accommodation for NSFAS students. 

Heyneke says these inspection and accreditation services were normally handled by accredited service providers on behalf of universities and colleges, but that NSFAS had contracted this function to inexperienced and understaffed service providers.  

OUTA foresees that this situation will only get worse once universities open for the academic year. “NSFAS themselves told Parliament in October last year that they need accommodation for at least 397,000 students at institutions countrywide,” Heyneke explained. “We want them to answer a few very basic questions which they seemed to avoid so far.”   

According to Heyneke, NSFAS should be transparent about the number of beds accredited so far. “We also want to know where these beds are – at exactly which institutions and in which areas? Who inspected them? Are the institutions’ own beds included in this number? Did they also have to pay to get their beds registered on the system, and will NSFAS also withhold a percentage of their fees?” 

OUTA said it is imperative that students get access to the accommodation portal as a matter of urgency. “TVET colleges started classes on Wednesday, and while students are homeless, they are also missing classes.” 

NSFAS must also be transparent about agreements with accommodation owners. “According to our information, many of them haven’t even seen rental agreements, and many are refusing to take part in the pilot project because of all the uncertainty caused by how NSFAS is handling the situations.  

Heyneke says  OUTA is aware of the outcry by students on social media. “Some have also reached out to us. It is despicable that NSFAS is allowed to gamble with the future of young people who want to better their lives through education. At this stage, the only logical decision would be for NSFAS management to stop the pilot project before this becomes a full-blown accommodation crisis that can easily spill over into student protests.”

According to Heyneke, NSFAS has included 17 out of the 26 public universities in SA on the ‘Pilot Project’ and 22 out of 50 colleges.  “Now the portal doesn’t work, the accreditation process is way too slow and accommodation providers and institutions are left in the dark. 

“NSFAS should do a proper pilot project and analyse the outcome first before forcing more than 50% of tertiary institutions to use a system that has not been tested. Allow universities and accommodation owners to continue with previous contracts while NSFAS cleans its house.”

During 2022, OUTA began investigating mismanagement of student funds by the NSFAS triggered by its alleged corrupt links to the Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA). Both entities fall under the Department of Higher Education and Training.

OUTA said the failure by institutions, such as the Services SETA and NSFAS, to manage their funds responsibly fails the unemployed youth and the country.

Two years ago, OUTA probed tender corruption at NSFAS. This followed OUTA’s investigation into corruption and irregular contracts at the Services Sector Education and Training Authority (SSETA) after a successful PAIA application relating to a R170 million tender for a biometric attendance monitoring system awarded to the Grayson Reed consortium.

OUTA’s scrutiny of the documents for the Grayson Reed contract found maladministration, corrupt activities, and non-performance by Grayson Reed. The Grayson Reed contract was subsequently cancelled by SSETA. 

But OUTA found that some of the same individuals who were involved in the cancelled Grayson Reed, registered new companies with relatives as the directors. One of these companies was awarded a tender by NSFAS for similar services that the Grayson Reed Consortium provided to SSETA. 

Under Nzimande’s watch, there has been corruption within NSFAS, evidence of wrongdoing at universities described by leading academic Professor Jonathan Jansen in a book last year, and ongoing financial mismanagement at skills training institutions which fall under the 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities.

The Chairperson of NSFAS, Ernest Khosa, has taken a leave of absence following allegations that he and Nzimande had allegedly defrauded the student funding body through kickbacks from service providers.  

But following the release of the OUTA report on 4 January, which contained leaked recorded conversations as part of its evidence, the Minister denied the claims, saying OUTA was trying to derail the start of the 2024 academic year.

Nzimande threatened legal action over the claim that the South African Communist Party which he leads, benefited from cash or services worth R1 million for its 2022 conference from the student funding body. Nzimande labelled the claim “malicious and false”. But OUTA insisted it stands by its investigation. 

Andile Nongogo was axed as NSFAS chief executive in October 2023 over “irregularities” related to four firms selected to pay around 1.1 million students their R1 650 monthly allowances directly and not through tertiary institutions, which had been the previous payment method.  

He was head of the Services SETA implicated in wasteful expenditure – and paying over the odds for items ordered. AS SETA CEO, Nongogo, authorised an overpriced branding campaign that cost taxpayers R37 million, including a branded T-shirt at R4 600, R44 000 for a branded umbrella, R980 for a coaster, R668 200 to print 100 copies of the SSETA Annual Performance Plan. 

Nongogo was rewarded with the NSFAS role after his stint at the SSETA. 

INSIDE EDUCATION

Edwin Naidu

ONE of the country’s leading training institutions, the Graduate Institute of Financial Sciences (GIFS), claims it has been victimised because it blew the whistle on alleged corruption at the Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA). 

GIFS won a court judgment in December ordering INSETA to reinstate GIFS’ full certification within 24 hours; withdraw all unlawful notifications it had distributed to industry stakeholders informing them of GIFS’ de-accreditation; reassure the public on its website and via email of the complete restoration of GIFS’ accreditation and pay the costs of GIFS’ legal counsel. INSETA has ignored the court order.

While INSETA fights a provider which works with top skills levy-paying South African companies, hundreds of students have not received their accreditation, leaving them in limbo, unable to work in the sector. 

In its urgent High Court interdict on January 4, GIFS’ legal counsel accused INSETA of corporate bullying and victimisation. They argued that the withdrawal of GIFS’ accreditation was based on a GIFS fraud investigation report compiled just over two years ago, now under review in the courts. GIFS maintains the report is fraught with trumped-up allegations, overt bias, glaring irregularities and multiple procedural flaws. It has only held off on its legal review as INSETA renewed its accreditation after the report was finalised in 2021.

GIFS gas asked the Public Protector for assistance in resolving the impasse, citing concerns centre around key personnel changes, potential conflicts of interest, and apparent irregularities in tender processes, which have raised serious questions about the organization’s adherence to ethical and legal standards.

“We have encountered persistent inefficiencies and incompetence on the part of INSETA, specifically in the issuance of certificates for learners. GIFS has repeatedly brought to INSETA’s attention the inaccuracies in certificates and instances of certificates being issued to learners who do not qualify.”

INSETA has been accused of issuing certificates to learners who do not meet the necessary qualifications, not only compromising the quality and integrity of the education system but also raises serious questions about INSETA’s commitment to upholding industry standards. 

“Despite our continuous efforts to address this issue, there has been no response or corrective action from INSETA.”

Instead of addressing the issues at hand, INSETA has chosen to victimize GIFS, creating an environment that stifles legitimate concerns.

In light of INSETA’s mandate to enhance skills and generate employment, the current predicament reveals a concerning backlog of 5500 learners within the system. This backlog, according to GIFS, not only places the employment opportunities for these learners in jeopardy but also exposes employers to potential compliance risks. 

“There is a prevailing concern that INSETA may not have the intention to disburse the funds owed to employers for the learners, potentially attributing the delay to administrative issues. This situation raises serious questions about the fulfilment of INSETA’s core objectives and the safeguarding of the interests of both learners and employers within the framework of its mandate,” claimed GIFS. 

Furthermore, GIFS called for specific entities such as QI Solutions, Milumbe Consulting CC and Octomate to be thoroughly investigated for their involvement in irregularities, especially in relation to ghost learners and collusion of tenders.

Senior managers at INSETA have raised concerns about the tender processes and the awarding of an IT contract to QI Solutions, asserting that it was unsuitable and incompatible with the sector. They advocated for the removal of the provider on grounds of non-performance and, as a result, have faced victimization. 

These officials forewarned of the potential decline of the sector. The unjust allocation of tenders to unqualified providers has become evident in the day-to-day operations of the insurance sector, where Skills Development Providers (SDP) witness individuals who do not meet the qualification criteria obtaining certificates, nonetheless. 

Similar to the repercussions faced by employees who spoke out, comparable actions have been taken against Skills Development Providers to stifle their voices and dissent. Tenders are being awarded to entities beyond the insurance sector, exacerbating the disadvantage faced by South African youth in securing meaningful opportunities and consequently widening the unemployment gap. 

“INSETA, through its actions or lack thereof, is falling short of its mandated responsibilities. Moreover, the organization is misappropriating public funds designated for skills development to initiate and finance legal actions against its own employees and other stakeholders, including an SMME like GIFS.”

INSETA CEO Gugu Mkhize confirmed that the Graduate Institute of Financial Sciences (GIFS) has been de-accredited effective as of 14 December 2023. This was following an appeal ruling made by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). 

“We are aware of the correspondence received from the Office of the Public Protector. At this time, we would like to inform you that the issue in question is currently being handled internally. 

“We understand the importance of transparency and accountability, and we are committed to addressing any concerns in a thorough and timely manner.  As the INSETA, our primary focus is on resolving matters efficiently and ensuring that we maintain a fair and impartial process. 

“We recognise the value of open communication with the public and the media, and we will provide updates as appropriate, keeping in mind the confidentiality and sensitivity of the allegations,” she said. 

As regards to the specific questions raised, which most of them are directly or indirectly related to pending legal proceedings, kindly note that INSETA is currently prejudiced to make comments on incomplete legal proceedings and matters that are sub judice. 

“As a public institution, INSETA remains committed to the promotion of the Skills Development Act aimed at inclusive and participatory skills development. INSETA endeavours to fulfil this mandate in partnership with the QCTO, stakeholders and learners.”

OUTA is expected to partner with GIFS in taking up the investigation as an extension of its work on unearthing corruption in South Africa. 

On Wednesday, former Deputy President, Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, will deliver a keynote address via video and GIFS CEO, Dr Kershen Pillay, will lead a discussion on ‘Ethical Leadership in Education’, together with other high-profile guests on a panel, exploring the growing need for ethical leadership in our country, especially in education. 

INSIDE EDUCATION

Staff Reporter

Hard-working Liyabona Ncanywa was recognised by the Eastern Cape Department of Education as one of the Top Achievers in the National Senior Certificate Examinations in the province. 

Assisted with tuition and school fees through the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA) STEM fund, Liyabona says she expected to do well as his performance since the beginning of the matric year was outstanding. 

“Some of the key moments were staying behind in the dining hall at school hostel to study when everyone else went to sleep. It would be me and my friends and we would study until 02:00am,” recalls the learner from Nathaniel Pamla High School in Peddie in the Eastern Cape. 

Liyabona says she hopes that her achievements can serve as motivation to her peers, helping them to realise that if she could achieve such greatness, so can they. 

“I would advise other students to always study ahead and to also practice as many past question papers as they can so that they can familiarize themselves with exam questions.”

The matric year, however, has had its challenges for Liyabona. “I lost my great grandmother and my cousin. I did not have time to properly grieve because I was faced with my midyear exams, so I had to make sure that I did not lose focus. I overcame this by telling myself that despite everything that happens, life goes on and I take too much time to grieve the time that would pass me by.”

Asked about her study techniques, Liyabona says: “I found teaching someone else what you have learnt is most effective because through this I identify which areas I still need to study.”

There was no doubt who helped push Liyabona the most. “My teachers played a huge role in motivating me because they always reminded me of what I was capable of achieving and they always pushed me out of my comfort zone.”

“My teachers always provided me with resources whenever I needed them. They would also always help me by explaining work that I didn’t understand and help me understand and help me understand it better. My family members always supported me emotionally and physiologically, they all helped me to have a clear mind so that I could focus on my academics.”

Liyabona also attributed the school’s success to the CHIETA funding and support which has positively impacted STEM initiatives in the community. “I believe the CHIETA’s funding has positively impacted our school because our pass rate increased from 2022 to 2023 which shows that the intervention of the program helped learners to improve their performance.”

Liyabona urged others to make sure that they utilize the resources that they are being offered as it could help them improve their academic performance. 

Her future aspirations? “I want to go into the medical field; I want to be a doctor and specialise in gynaecology. One of my many reasons is the fact that most women in rural areas lack information about reproductive health and for that reason they tend to be careless regarding matters that include reproductive health. I would like to be part of the solution and help women to be more responsible for their reproductive health,” said Liyabona. 

Yershen Pillay, the chief executive officer of CHIETA, welcomed Liyabona’s Top Achiever recognition from the Eastern Cape Department of Education. “It is with a measure of pride when students we as an organisation support, excel. Liyabona has our best wishes for the future. We urge learners supported by CHIETA, and students in general, to be inspired by her hard-working example.”

Through its various programmes, Pillay added that through its Upcoming Discretionary Grant Funding Windows, working with corporates, CHIETA provides potential opportunities for 615 internships, 1085 learnerships, 1 395 skills programmes,1285 TVET student for Working in Learning and 1 000 learners receive STEM training. 

“This investment in skills development is vindicated when learners like Liyabona make us proud,” he added. 

INSIDE EDUCATION

Staff Reporter

As the Class of 2023 celebrate their matric success, it’s time for matriculants to consider the options that provide a lifeline to the future underpinned by job creation and entrepreneurship. 

That’s the message from Yershen Pillay, Chief Executive Officer of the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA), who believes that not all matriculants will find a place at the country’s 26 universities, for example, the University of Kwazulu-Natal received more than 160 000 applications for 9 000 first year places. 

“Therefore, we believe that the opportunities for further studies at Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) are key to building the skills pipeline. At CHIETA, learners through companies are also given extensive opportunities to learn skills that will gear them for a better future,” says Pillay. 

Through its various programmes, CHIETA, through its Upcoming Discretionary Grant Funding Windows, working with corporates provides potential opportunities for 615 internships, 1085 learnerships, 1 395 skills programmes,1285 TVET student for Working in Learning and 1 000 learners receive STEM training. 

Against the backdrop of South Africa’s unemployment rate, which according to Statistics SA is expected to trend around 34% percent in 2024, the need for using skills development opportunities is key to changing the narrative. 

StatsSA found that some young people have been disengaged from the labour market and are also not building on their skill base through education and training – they are not in employment, education, or training (NEET). The NEET rate is an essential additional labour market indicator for young people. There were about 10,2 million young people aged 15–24 years, of which 36,1% were not in employment, education or training. 

“This gives us a vital opportunity as the CHIETA to push forward with our strategy for innovating for impact to contribute to sustainable livelihoods through innovative solutions for skills development, education, and training,” says Pillay. 

Therein lies the opportunity to make a dent in unemployment, especially among the youth, through skills development. 

In a boost for skills development in South Africa and Africa, one among many innovative initiatives was the signing of a ground-breaking memorandum of understanding between the CHIETA and the China Europe International Business School (CEIBS). 

The goal of the MoU is to merge efforts by the two institutions to drive innovation, skills development and training in Africa and will be in place until 31 March 2025. CHIETA’s role includes sourcing corporate entrepreneurs in the chemicals sector to upskill them and identifying 4th Industrial Revolution-linked programs. The impact of this is that it will help provide youth with skills to combat unemployment. 

CHIETA has continued identifying strategic opportunities to support the National Development Plan (NDP) and the Economic Recovery and Reconstruction Plan (ERRP) to ensure we tackle unemployment and the skills shortage. 

Transformational goals are being met through a wide range of discretionary grant funding directed towards women, youth and people living with disabilities. One project that has contributed to poverty alleviation by reducing unemployment is the smart food cart programme. 

Beneficiaries of the programme are provided with computer tablets, allocated a food cart fitted with a location-tracking and reporting device, and an e-commerce app. In this way, township-based small and medium enterprises are empowered, increasing their numbers in townships. It has had a transformative effect on communities. 

Another major programme launched during the year is the Smart Skills Centres, in which rural learners are taught digital skills to keep abreast with artificial intelligence developments. 

The CHIETA intends to establish these centres in all nine provinces. Another project that stands out is the AlgoAtWork Robotics Academy in Richards Bay, in which children are taught essential skills for an AI-driven workplace in the future. Numerous bursaries flow into learning support and programmes for retrenched employees, a fundamental way the CHIETA supports the ERRP.

“As the statistics show, unemployment is a real challenge – and concern. Bold initiatives must be implemented to enable youth to succeed beyond matric, and CHIETA is determined to play a key role in changing the landscape,” concludes Pillay.

INSIDE EDUCATION

Edwin Naidu

One of the country’s leading training institutions, the Graduate Institute of Financial Sciences (GIFS), claims it has been victimised because it blew the whistle on alleged corruption at the Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA). 

GIFS won a court judgment in December ordering INSETA to reinstate GIFS’ full certification within 24 hours; withdraw all unlawful notifications it had distributed to industry stakeholders informing them of GIFS’ de-accreditation; reassure the public on its website and via email of the complete restoration of GIFS’ accreditation and pay the costs of GIFS’ legal counsel. INSETA has ignored the court order.

While INSETA fights a provider which works with top skills levy-paying South African companies, hundreds of students have not received their accreditation, leaving them in limbo, unable to work in the sector. 

In its urgent High Court interdict on January 4, GIFS’ legal counsel accused INSETA of corporate bullying and victimisation. They argued that the withdrawal of GIFS’ accreditation was based on a GIFS fraud investigation report compiled just over two years ago, now under review in the courts. GIFS maintains the report is fraught with trumped-up allegations, overt bias, glaring irregularities and multiple procedural flaws. It has only held off on its legal review as INSETA renewed its accreditation after the report was finalised in 2021.

GIFS gas asked the Public Protector for assistance in resolving the impasse, citing concerns centre around key personnel changes, potential conflicts of interest, and apparent irregularities in tender processes, which have raised serious questions about the organization’s adherence to ethical and legal standards.

“We have encountered persistent inefficiencies and incompetence on the part of INSETA, specifically in the issuance of certificates for learners. GIFS has repeatedly brought to INSETA’s attention the inaccuracies in certificates and instances of certificates being issued to learners who do not qualify.”

INSETA has been accused of issuing certificates to learners who do not meet the necessary qualifications, not only compromising the quality and integrity of the education system but also raises serious questions about INSETA’s commitment to upholding industry standards. 

“Despite our continuous efforts to address this issue, there has been no response or corrective action from INSETA.”

Instead of addressing the issues at hand, INSETA has chosen to victimize GIFS, creating an environment that stifles legitimate concerns.

In light of INSETA’s mandate to enhance skills and generate employment, the current predicament reveals a concerning backlog of 5500 learners within the system. This backlog, according to GIFS, not only places the employment opportunities for these learners in jeopardy but also exposes employers to potential compliance risks. 

“There is a prevailing concern that INSETA may not have the intention to disburse the funds owed to employers for the learners, potentially attributing the delay to administrative issues. This situation raises serious questions about the fulfilment of INSETA’s core objectives and the safeguarding of the interests of both learners and employers within the framework of its mandate,” claimed GIFS. 

Furthermore, GIFS called for specific entities such as QI Solutions, Milumbe Consulting CC and Octomate to be thoroughly investigated for their involvement in irregularities, especially in relation to ghost learners and collusion of tenders.

Senior managers at INSETA have raised concerns about the tender processes and the awarding of an IT contract to QI Solutions, asserting that it was unsuitable and incompatible with the sector. They advocated for the removal of the provider on grounds of non-performance and, as a result, have faced victimization. 

These officials forewarned of the potential decline of the sector. The unjust allocation of tenders to unqualified providers has become evident in the day-to-day operations of the insurance sector, where Skills Development Providers (SDP) witness individuals who do not meet the qualification criteria obtaining certificates, nonetheless. 

Similar to the repercussions faced by employees who spoke out, comparable actions have been taken against Skills Development Providers to stifle their voices and dissent. Tenders are being awarded to entities beyond the insurance sector, exacerbating the disadvantage faced by South African youth in securing meaningful opportunities and consequently widening the unemployment gap. 

“INSETA, through its actions or lack thereof, is falling short of its mandated responsibilities. Moreover, the organization is misappropriating public funds designated for skills development to initiate and finance legal actions against its own employees and other stakeholders, including an SMME like GIFS.”

INSETA CEO Gugu Mkhize confirmed that the Graduate Institute of Financial Sciences (GIFS) has been de-accredited effective as of 14 December 2023. This was following an appeal ruling made by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). 

“We are aware of the correspondence received from the Office of the Public Protector. At this time, we would like to inform you that the issue in question is currently being handled internally. 

“We understand the importance of transparency and accountability, and we are committed to addressing any concerns in a thorough and timely manner.  As the INSETA, our primary focus is on resolving matters efficiently and ensuring that we maintain a fair and impartial process. 

“We recognise the value of open communication with the public and the media, and we will provide updates as appropriate, keeping in mind the confidentiality and sensitivity of the allegations,” she said. 

As regards to the specific questions raised, which most of them are directly or indirectly related to pending legal proceedings, kindly note that INSETA is currently prejudiced to make comments on incomplete legal proceedings and matters that are sub judice. 

“As a public institution, INSETA remains committed to the promotion of the Skills Development Act aimed at inclusive and participatory skills development. INSETA endeavours to fulfil this mandate in partnership with the QCTO, stakeholders and learners.”

OUTA is expected to partner with GIFS in taking up the investigation as an extension of its work on unearthing corruption in South Africa. 

On Wednesday, former Deputy President, Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, will deliver a keynote address via video and GIFS CEO, Dr Kershen Pillay, will lead a discussion on ‘Ethical Leadership in Education’, together with other high-profile guests on a panel, exploring the growing need for ethical leadership in our country, especially in education. 

INSIDE EDUCATION

Staff Reporter

A Portfolio Committee on Basic Education delegation has expressed its concern for the “utter disregard of the work of Parliament” when a delegation led by the MEC’s office did not attend a scheduled meeting to wrap up the committee’s oversight visit to schools in the Eastern Cape.

The committee delegation last Friday concluded its two-day oversight visit to assess school readiness for the 2024 academic year. It had planned to meet with the office of the national Department of Basic Education, the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Education (including the Office of the MEC, heads of department and senior and district officials), the provincial legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Education, the provincial House of Traditional Leaders, school governing body associations, organised labour and the South African Principals’ Association.
 
The leader of the delegation, Tebogo Letsie, said the committee has verified that the email address to which the invitation to the meeting was sent is the correct one and the venue was secured by the provincial department. 

“At this stage, everyone claims they have not received the email and were not aware, yet they have confirmed that the email addresses we used are indeed correct. 

“Many issues and challenges were highlighted over the last two days and a commitment was made by us to discuss it further at the meeting. We see this as blatantly disrespectful and a disregard for our work. We will make it clear in our report,” Letsie said.
 
Earlier in the day, the delegation visited two schools in the Buffalo City education district – Nosizwe High School and Bhaliti Junior School. Yesterday, they visited four schools in the Amathole education district. The delegation also visited schools in the North West province.
 
Letsie said the focus of the Eastern Cape visit included, among other things, infrastructure; ablution facilities; monitoring grade R/early childhood development sites, as per the departmental migration shift of 2022; delivery of learner-teacher study material; nutrition; learner transport; support to special schools; and meeting with stakeholders to discuss the state of schooling in 2024.
 
At Nosizwe High School, the delegation commended the school for the steady increase in National Senior Certificate results over the years. The class of 2023 obtained an 88.6% pass rate, increasing from 77.14% in 2020. 

“We need to commend our schools, our learners, education officials, parents and the whole school community for making this possible,” said Letsie.
 
However, he emphasised to the school leadership that an increase in the pass rate is not good enough. “We need quality passes to ensure that our learners are accepted at institutions of higher learning and for the courses of their choice. 

“It is very competitive in this space, so to ensure this our learners must not just be getting distinctions, but high distinctions in order to get placement.”
 
The committee also raised concerns about the asbestos roofing at the school. “We appeal to the authorities in the province to work together to solve this matter. Asbestos is a health risk for both learners and teachers,” Letsie advised.
 
At Bhaliti Junior School, the committee was confronted with the challenge of the community fighting rationalisation. The small school has 156 learners with three educators and a principal. 

The delegation heard that the provincial education department has plans to merge the school with another, but the community is not in favour of this move. The school governing body said the reason for this is that the department has no plans to provide transport to the new school and the community is too poor to pay for private transport.

 “This sounds like a challenge that can easily be addressed if stakeholders put their heads together. We cannot fail our children. The interest of the child needs to come first,” Letsie said.
 
Both schools reported challenges with theft and burglaries, vandalism, a lack of security and a lack of infrastructure maintenance. The delegation assured them that all observations made during the two-day visit to the province will be contained in its report to be tabled in Parliament. In addition, its recommendations will be included in its hand-over report to the new committee in the seventh administration.
 
“We are cautiously optimistic by the strides made in the province. It is a sign of a stabilising system in terms of education and improvement, despite some challenges. It must be commended,” said Letsie.

INSIDE EDUCATION

Staff Reporter

THE University of KwaZulu Natal has paid tribute to the country’s first Black neurosurgeon, Professor Mochichi Samuel Mokgokong who passed away last week. 

“It is with deep sadness and regret that we received the news of the passing of one of our own alumni, Professor Mochichi Samuel Mokgokong. Mokgokong was the first Black neurosurgeon in South Africa and hails from a family of medical giants including the renowned Professor Ephraim Thibedi Mokgokong, one of the first Black gynaecologists in South Africa, who was one of his greatest influences and pillars of strength,” the university said in a statement. 

Mokgokong is renowned for being part of the surgical team that separated conjoined twins, Mpho and Mphonyana Mathibela, at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital on 7 December 1986. 

He further headed the surgical teams for three separations of craniopagus Siamese twins and has trained and produced more than 15 neurosurgeons so far as well as produced the youngest neurosurgeon in Africa in 2017. 

In 2022, UKZN honoured Professor Mokgokong with a Living Legend award for his invaluable contribution to the medical field through clinical skills but also through leadership, scholarly work and community outreach programmes.

Professor Mokgokong held several academic and clinical positions during his illustrious career including as a Professor Emeritus of the University of Pretoria, Head of Tembisa Hospital’s Adult Intensive Care and High Care Units; Professor, Chief Specialist, and Head of the Neurosurgery Department at the University of Pretoria’s Steve Biko Academic Hospital; Emeritus Professor and Acting Head of Neurosurgery at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University and Dr George Mukhari Hospital. 

A visiting lecturer and consultant at the University of Pretoria’s Department of Neurosurgery under Prof M Van Rensburg; and Specialist and Lecturer in the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of the Witwatersrand’s Baragwanath Hospital, Mokgokong graduated with a BSc from the University of the North, a medical degree from UKZN, an MMed in Neurosurgery from Medunsa, and DSc Honoris Causa of Public Health from the University of Venda for Science and Technology in 2001. 

Professor Mokgokong was an active member of the South African Medical Council; Health Professions Council of South Africa; the South African Medical Association, Colleges of Medicine of South Africa; and the South African Neurosurgical Association. He was a council member of the Critical Care Society of South Africa. 

He has received several accolades for his amazing work including the CEO Award for the Best Employee at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital for 2017; the Order of Merit Award for Outstanding contribution in the Medical Field from the Executive Reserve Club in 1999; scooped the University of the North Onkgopotse Tiro Order of Merit Award in 2000 and received the Tribute Achievers 2000 Health Category Award presented by the then President of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki. 

Professor Ncoza Dlova, dean of the School of Clinical Medicine said: “We can learn a lot from Professor Mokgokong because he was a selfless leader, academic and clinician who served his country with pride and enjoyed passing on his skills to his students. Professor Mokgokong always encouraged his students to ‘to step away from private practice and instead give back to their communities as lecturers and academics to inspire Black students to enter the profession. 

He advised students to, ‘Stay in school and specialise instead of going into private practice to make money because once you’re a specialist you can impart your knowledge and expertise and become an even bigger success. He will be missed. We convey our heartfelt condolences to his loved ones. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

INSIDE EDUCATION

Sports Reporter

AS THE countdown to the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games intensifies, Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has announced its collaboration with four exceptional South African sporting heroes.

Paralympians Puseletso Mabote and Louzanne Coetzee, along with promising swimmer Pieter Coetzee and dynamic mountain biker Matt Beers, are set to inspire the world, and Toyota is committed to supporting their journey towards excellence.

Toyota furthermore reaffirms its commitment to the spirit of sportsmanship and the celebration of human potential through its Global Team Toyota Athletes Programme. At the heart of Toyota’s corporate philosophy lies a profound belief in the power of sport to inspire, unite, and transcend boundaries.

The Global Team Toyota Athletes Programme is a testament to this commitment, aiming to support and uplift athletes in their quest for excellence on the grand stage of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

TSAM is proud to officially announce Puseletso Mabote, Louzanne Coetzee, Pieter Coetzee and Matt Beers as the South Africans to join the esteemed mother company’s Global Team Toyota Athletes Programme.

Global Team Toyota Athletes consist of athletes who have been selected from various countries because they share Toyota’s philosophies and values, such as challenge, continuous improvement, sincerity, teamwork, humility, gratitude, accountability and honesty.

The athletes ignite the “Start Your Impossible” philosophy whenever they compete in their respective sports.

The Global Team Toyota Athletes Programme builds upon Toyota’s legacy of supporting various local sporting codes as well as the Olympic and Paralympic Games. By fostering a global community of athletes, Toyota seeks to create an environment where athletes can share experiences, learn from one another, and inspire the world with their achievements.

“We believe in the unifying power of sport to create a better society,” says Glenn Crompton: Vice President of Sales and Marketing at TSAM.

“Through the Global Team Toyota Athletes Programme, we aim to champion the values of determination, perseverance, and excellence that athletes bring to the world stage,” he adds.

Each athlete brings a unique and inspiring story to the tapestry of South African sport. Puseletso Mabote, a decorated Paralympian (athletics T63 100m, 200m and long jump), has overcome challenges with grace and determination, serving as an inspiration to many.

Louzanne Coetzee (athletics T11 and F11 marathon), with her unwavering spirit, has carved a path of success as a Paralympic middle-distance runner, showcasing the true essence of resilience.

Pieter Coetzee (100m and 200m backstroke), an emerging swimmer, embodies the potential of the next generation of South African athletes. His dedication and passion for the sport have positioned him as a rising star in the competitive world of swimming. Matt Beers (MTB gravel mountain biker), who is a force to be reckoned with on the mountain biking scene, brings adrenaline-fueled excitement and an indomitable spirit to his craft.

For the three Olympic and Paralympic athletes planning to partake at this year’s Games, the road to Paris 2024 is not just about competition; it’s a journey that transcends limits and redefines what is possible. Toyota is committed to walking alongside these athletes, providing the support they need to chase their dreams and leave an indelible mark on the world.

While Matt will not be taking part in the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, TSAM recognises his exceptional talent and determination.

Aligned with Toyota’s “Start Your Impossible” campaign, the Global Team Toyota Athletes Programme embodies the idea that when people are free to move, anything is possible. By supporting athletes worldwide, Toyota strives to break down barriers, challenge the status quo, and empower individuals to overcome obstacles.

“The “Start Your Impossible” campaign reflects our belief that mobility goes beyond cars; it is about overcoming challenges and making dreams come true,” adds Crompton. “Through the Global Team Toyota Athletes Programme, we aim to empower athletes to push their limits and achieve the impossible”.

INSIDE EDUCATION

Johnathan Paoli

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has vehemently condemned political parties for entering Gauteng public schools during curriculum delivery time, as a strategy of campaigning.

This follows a campaign trail by a certain political party at some schools in Eldorado Park on Thursday during school hours.

“We strongly condemn the intrusion of political parties into Gauteng public schools. Education environments must remain apolitical to ensure a focused and unbiased learning atmosphere, curriculum delivery time, must always be respected, no one must disrupt schools,” said Chiloane.

A video showing EFF members in Johannesburg allegedly handing out food parcels to learners at La Rochelle Primary School in the south of the city was doing the rounds, has prompted Chiloane’s response.

DA MPL Sergio dos Santos said that this type of political messaging within schools, and in particular during school hours, was unacceptable as it undermined the primary purpose of educational institutions.

“While the DA acknowledges and comends any organisation contributing to the welfare of the learners through the provision of food packs, we firmly reject the exploitation of such initiatives for political campaigning during school hours,” dos Santos said.

The IEC has said the elections will be held somewhere from May and August to elect a new National Assembly, and the legislature in each province.

“These will be the seventh elections held under democracy since the end of apartheid in 1994. The new national council of provinces will be elected at the first sitting of each provincial legislature,” the IEC said.

Concerns have been raised over the possibility of cutting off late applications for registration, and opposition parties have called for the disclosure of a provisional date at the least.

The IEC is expected to hold its final voter registration drive on the weekend of February 3 and 4.

INSIDE EDUCATION