Staff Reporter

Melato Moremi, a dynamic 30-year-old science communicator, is committed to making science accessible and engaging for all. With a Bachelor of Science degree with honours in Physical Sciences and Chemistry from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), Moremi’s academic journey has been characterised by a passion for the sciences.

He now channels this passion into his role at the Sci-Enza Science Centre at the University of Pretoria (UP), where he works to inspire and educate the next generation of scientists.

Before joining the Sci-Enza team, Moremi honed his skills as a science tutor and lab assistant at SMU. These roles allowed him to develop a solid foundation in teaching and hands-on scientific work, preparing him for his current position.

As a science communicator, Moremi bridges the gap between complex scientific concepts and the public, fostering a greater appreciation for science in everyday life.

Through his work, Moremi aims to inspire curiosity and understanding among his audiences, making science fun and informative.

He is committed to empowering young people with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. He believes science education is crucial in this empowerment, fostering critical thinking and innovation.

He has a unique perspective on the significance of Youth Month and the potential of young people.

“Youth Month is a powerful reminder of the resilience, creativity and potential of young people,” Moremi reflects. “It commemorates the bravery of the youth in 1976 who stood up for their rights, and it inspires today’s generation to continue striving for positive change.”

For Moremin, Youth Month is an opportunity to highlight the importance of education, empowerment and unity among young people.

“Today’s youth are incredibly dynamic and tech-savvy,” he says. “They have the tools and the platforms to make a significant impact. However, we must provide them with the right opportunities and support them to harness their potential effectively.”

Youth Month fosters a sense of unity by bringing young people together to celebrate their shared history and aspirations, he adds.

“It is a time for young people to connect, share ideas and work towards common goals. When we celebrate Youth Month, we celebrate diversity and inclusivity, reinforcing the idea that our differences are our strengths.”

He says Youth Month is not just a commemoration but a call to action.

“It encourages us to invest in youth development and to create an environment where young people can thrive. By working together, we can build a brighter future for all.”

In an ever-evolving job market, young people’s employability hinges on a combination of technical and soft skills.

“Acquiring skills at an early stage and seizing opportunities for skills development are pivotal to professional growth,” he says. “These skills prepare individuals for unforeseen opportunities, both within and outside their current fields of interest. When a position requires skills beyond their current expertise, these additional skills can make them exemplary candidates.”

According to Moremi, these essential skills make young people more marketable:

Digital literacy: Proficiency with digital tools and technologies is essential. This includes understanding social media, coding, data analysis, and other tech-related skills crucial in a digital-first world.

Communication skills: Effective communication, both written and verbal, is critical. Young people who can clearly articulate ideas, collaborate, and actively listen are highly valued.

Problem-solving abilities: The ability to analyse problems, think critically and develop creative solutions are significant assets. Employers seek individuals who can navigate challenges and drive innovation.

Adaptability and flexibility: The capacity to adapt to new situations and pivot when necessary is vital in a fast-paced work environment. Youth who demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to learn are better equipped to handle the demands of various roles.

Teamwork and collaboration: It is crucial to work well with others and contribute effectively to a team. Employers seek individuals who can collaborate, share ideas, and support their colleagues.

Leadership skills: Leadership is not just about managing others; it’s about taking initiative, being responsible and motivating peers. Youth who exhibit these traits stand out as potential future leaders.

Emotional intelligence: Understanding and managing one’s emotions and empathising with others enhances workplace relationships and contributes to a positive work environment.

Time management: The ability to prioritise tasks, manage time efficiently and meet deadlines is essential for productivity and success in any role.

Networking abilities: Building and maintaining professional relationships can open doors to opportunities and provide valuable industry insights.

Continuous learning: A commitment to lifelong learning and self-improvement ensures youth remain competitive and current with industry trends and developments.

INSIDE EDUCATION

Staff Reporter

In 2020, during her gap year, Asenathi Unabantu Mjacu, a third-year student at the University of the Western Cape (UWC), embarked on an unexpected journey. With time on her hands and a desire to stay productive, she started a clothing line despite initially not having a deep passion for fashion.

Mjacu mastered the craft of sewing and designing outfits, relying solely on her determination and online resources, including YouTube and TikTok tutorials.

The 23-year-old purchased her first sewing machine using an R1000 voucher awarded by the Mayor of Mossel Bay for her matric performance. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of her fashion line, Asenathi Couture.

“In Mossel Bay, when you pass matric with good marks, the Mayor invites all those learners and awards us vouchers. I didn’t consider myself a top student, but I suppose I did well enough to be recognised by the school for academic achievements,” said the third-year Sports Science student.

Her first order came from a high school friend who saw her work on Facebook. The positive response and subsequent orders encouraged Mjacu to continue. Her first creation was a yellow outfit with a skirt and a tunic top. This early success led to more orders, primarily promoted on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.

“For clients outside Cape Town, requests are telephonic, and they send me pictures. I need the client’s waist and bust size and a full-length photo of the client. From there, I require a 50% deposit, purchase the material, and start with the garment. My turnaround time is two weeks.” But few things in life come without the challenges. One of the most difficult aspects of her work has been creating intricate designs like matric dance dresses, mainly due to the complex materials.

“Sometimes the material is very delicate, and it’s hard to sew intricate accessories.” Despite these hurdles, she has received big orders, which she tackles head-on as a one-woman show.

“I received an order from an entrepreneur with his clothing line. He ordered 15 hoodies and about 12 tracksuit sets. That’s been my biggest order to date. It was difficult to manage alone.”

The full-time student said balancing her studies with her growing fashion business has been difficult. Time management and dealing with diverse client personalities are ongoing challenges. Despite this, she has maintained a policy requiring a 50% upfront payment to ensure client commitment.

It’s been over four years since Asenathi Couture started, but the Mossel Bay local has big plans. She hopes to continue her studies and later pursue short courses in fashion design. Her goal is to register her business and expand its reach officially.

She advised other students to consider starting “side hustles” or small companies to support their finances, emphasising the importance of self-reliance and entrepreneurship.

Through her journey, Asenathi Unabantu Mjacu exemplifies the power of initiative and self-education, transforming a gap year into a thriving business venture.

INSIDE EDUCATION

Johnathan Paoli

President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday night announced former DA Chief Whip Siviwe Gwarube as the new Minister of Basic Education, replacing ANC veteran Angie Motshekga who is now the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans.

Gwarube, one of the youngest appointees, was born in KwaMdingi, King William’s Town on 14 July 1989 and raised by her grandmother. She began her political career in 2012, working in communications while she was employed in the office of former DA leader Lindiwe Mazibuko.

She attended Kingsridge High School for Girls, obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law, Politics and Philosophy from Rhodes University, and an Honours degree in Political Science from the University of the Western Cape.

After her spell in communications, she later became the head of ministry at the Western Cape department of health under provincial minister Nomafrench Mbombo as well as being the head of the DA’s communications department prior to her election to Parliament.

Recognised for her leadership within the DA caucus, Siviwe Gwarube was elected as the Deputy Chief Whip of the Official Opposition in December 2021, following a competitive caucus election.

In this role, she managed parliamentary affairs and caucus discipline, further solidifying her influence within the party.

In August 2022, Gwarube was appointed as the Chief Whip of the DA caucus in the National Assembly, subsequently becoming the Chief Whip of the Official Opposition.

In this capacity, she effectively coordinated the opposition’s legislative strategies and oversight functions, succeeding Natasha Mazzone, with the party saying that her tenure as Chief Whip prepared her for broader responsibilities within the government.

Federal leader John Steenhuisen has previously expressed his support for Gwarube and said he held full confidence in her abilities to fulfil important roles.

“She brings a wealth of political experience as well as a level-headed maturity. Siviwe is no stranger to important responsibilities,” Steenhuisen said.

In her new position as Basic Education Minister, she is tasked with overseeing the country’s educational policies and initiatives, ensuring quality education and equitable access for all learners across the country.

Gwarube has claimed that she maintains a commitment to community service and advocacy, and said her upbringing and educational background continue to shape her dedication to improving education and governance in South Africa.

She previously called for legislation extending the deadline for a government to be formed, from 14 days to 30 days across local, provincial and national governments.

She said the country was clearly in a coalition government, with the national and provincial elections indicating that no single party was given a majority.

“We must adapt. Be agile. Be reasonable and level headed. Be mature. And frankly be worthy of the trust millions put in us by electing us to office. Now the rubber hits the road,” Gwarube said.

She takes the position from the longest serving education minister Motshekga, who was appointed minister under the administration of former President Jacob Zuma in April 2009, and retained the position after the 2014 general elections.

Ramaphosa kept her in that position

INSIDE EDUCATION