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TimesLIVE
a day ago
- Health
- TimesLIVE
Department trains ECD practitioners to 'rescue' foundation-phase learning
The department of basic education (DBE) says it has trained 2,670 early childhood development (ECD) practitioners in the 2024/2025 financial year on the national curriculum framework (NCF) for children aged birth to four. It said this is part of efforts to strengthen foundational learning across the country. Responding to a parliamentary question from MP Delmaine Chelsey Christians, the department revealed it has significantly scaled up training since the ECD function shift from the department of social development to basic education in April 2022. In addition to the 2,670 practitioners trained in 2024/2025, the department said: 20,027 were trained in 2023/24; 11,681 in 2022/23; 930 in 2021/22; 1,752 in 2020/21; and 14,008 in 2019/20. Regarding qualifications aligned to the national qualifications framework (NQF) level 4, the department reported training: 2,374 practitioners this year; 3,140 trained in 2023/24; 1,345 in 2022/23; 3,239 in 2021/22; and 4,905 in 2019/20. The 2020/21 year saw no training due to Covid-related disruptions. 'Since the ECD function shift in April 2022, the department of basic education and provincial education departments have prioritised the professional development of ECD practitioners to improve the quality of foundational learning,' it said.
Biz Bahrain
4 days ago
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
Vatel Bahrain Launches First MBA in International Hotel Management in the Kingdom
In response to growing demand for specialised leaders in the region's rapidly expanding tourism sector, Vatel Bahrain has launched the Kingdom's first MBA in International Hotel Management. The two-year postgraduate programme, approved by the Higher Education Council (HEC), is placed at level 7 of the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) and aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) at level 9, offering students an internationally recognised pathway to senior roles in the hospitality and tourism sector locally, regionally and internationally. In line with the college's strategic goals, the MBA programme supports the objectives of Bahrain Vision 2030 and the Kingdom's Tourism Strategy 2022–2026 by empowering national talent in high-potential sectors and equipping them with professional knowledge, relevant skills, and leadership capabilities that enhance their contribution to sustainable economic development. Delivered entirely in English over two academic years, the programme is designed to engage students in a unique curriculum covering subjects such as Economy of Tourism and Hospitality, Marketing Strategy, Financial Analysis, Human Resources, Hospitality and Tourism Strategy, and language studies in English and French, honing their skills and enhancing industry readiness. Admission to the programme requires a bachelor's qualification in Hospitality or Hotel Management, or a bachelor's degree in any other discipline accompanied by a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience. Applicants must also successfully complete a personal interview as part of the selection process. Sheikh Khaled bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, General Director of Vatel Bahrain, affirmed that the introduction of this MBA programme—considered the first of its kind in the Kingdom—addresses the increasing need for skilled leadership in the hospitality and tourism industries across Bahrain and the wider region, while also executes Vatel Bahrain's strategic plan aimed at developing national and regional competencies to the highest standards by equipping them with professional skills, expertise and knowledge in the tourism field. Sheikh Khaled further added that the MBA programme has been meticulously developed to equip graduates with the professional knowledge, strategic acumen, and global perspective essential for assuming senior leadership roles within the tourism and hospitality sector. By seamlessly integrating academic rigour with practical industry experience and remaining attuned to evolving global trends, the programme seeks to address existing professional gaps and contribute meaningfully to enhancing the quality and competitiveness of hospitality services in Bahrain and the wider region.
IOL News
20-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Gauteng allocates R68 billion for transformative education in 2025/26
MEC Matome Chiloane outlines Gauteng's R68 billion education budget at Jeppe Girls High School, emphasizing transformation, safety, and skills for the future. Image: Timothy Bernard / Independent Newspapers The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has tabled a bold and transformative education budget of R68 billion for the 2025/26 financial year, reflecting a clear commitment to building an inclusive, skilled and future-ready generation. Education MEC Matome Chiloane unveiled the budget during a sitting of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature on July 17, 2024, with further public briefing at Jeppe Girls High School on July 20, 2025. MEC Chiloane says this R68 billion allocation reflects our dedication to building a generation of skilled, confident, and capable learners who will drive South Africa's economic growth and social transformation. The budget represents a 4.9% increase from the previous year's R64.8 billion and is underpinned by a Strategic Framework for Educational Excellence focused on four key pillars. Strategy 1, Early Childhood Development R734 million has been allocated to universalize Grade R, expand access to ECD programmes, and train practitioners to NQF Level 6. Chiloane highlighted the story of Sis Nomsa, who transformed her informal ECD initiative in Lawley Extension 2 into a fully registered and compliant centre through GDE support. 'Her centre now stands as a beacon of hope and proof that even in informal settlements like Kokotela, hope can flourish, and quality learning can begin from birth." Strategy 2, Promote Quality Education Receives R2.2 billion, funding interventions in literacy, STEM, and technical skills. Notable success stories include Lufhereng Secondary School, which achieved a 100% pass rate with 97% Bachelor passes, and Raymond Mhlaba Secondary School, a model of township excellence. MEC Chiloane also praised Gauteng's top learner, Musawenkosi Buthelezi from Zimisele Secondary School, who obtained the highest subject scores in the province. 'Quality education is not a privilege of location, but a right we are delivering to every learner." Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Strategy 3, Changing the Educational Landscape The largest slice, R3.9 billion, is for Strategy 3, Changing the Educational Landscape. This strategy focuses on Multi-Certification Skills Programmes (MCSP), which provide learners with certifications in coding, robotics, AI, firefighting, first aid and more. Chiloane further celebrated learners from Katlehong School of Specialisation, who are currently job shadowing at Hyundai, Kia, and Mercedes-Benz, and applauded the Soshanguve SOS team for winning an award in Ethiopia with their electric car project. Strategy 4, Create Safe Schools With an allocation of R2.9 billion, supports school safety, nutrition, health programmes and transport for over 228,000 learners. The MEC commended the principals of Qalabotsha and Tshepo ya Rona Secondary Schools for their gratitude following security deployments and paid tribute to Mr Noko Selepe, the principal of Primrose Primary School, who returned to work after being shot by a learner. With 2.83 million learners, 3,317 institutions, and over 104,000 educators, Gauteng's education system is showing strong results, an 88.41% matric pass rate, 50.27% bachelor passes, and all districts maintaining pass rates above 80%. 'We are not just funding education; we are investing in transformation. We are not just building schools; we are building dreams. We are not just teaching subjects; we are developing citizens who will lead our province and nation into a prosperous future,' Chiloane said. IOL News
IOL News
19-07-2025
- IOL News
Over a million apply to join SAPS: Women lead surge in 2025 police recruitment drive
SAPS attracts record number of applicants for Basic Police Development Learning Programme Image: SAPS The South African Police Service (SAPS) has reported a groundbreaking influx of applications for its Basic Police Development Learning Programme (BPDLP) for the 2025/2026 cycle, with a staggering 1,049,998 individuals applying before the midnight deadline on 18 July 2025. This remarkable statistic underscores the growing interest in joining the police force, particularly among young South Africans aspiring to serve their communities. The gender breakdown of the applications reveals an encouraging trend towards inclusivity, with 595,049 applications submitted by female candidates, compared to 454,949 from male candidates. This positive shift indicates an increasing recognition of the importance of diverse representation within law enforcement roles. Geographically, Gauteng emerged as the province yielding the highest number of applications, with 267,031 hopefuls eager to join the ranks of the SAPS. KwaZulu-Natal followed closely with 205,802 applications. The interest is distributed variably across other provinces, with Limpopo at 115,877, Eastern Cape at 108,709, and Mpumalanga at 100,516. The Western Cape also secured significant interest, drawing in 86,496 applications, while the Free State accounted for 73,214. North West submitted 66,167, and the Northern Cape brought up the rear with a modest 26,186 applicants. In a noteworthy indication of academic preparedness among applicants, 334,765 individuals possess qualifications at a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 6 (Diploma) or higher, which suggests a highly educated pool of candidates ready to tackle the challenges of policing. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading As the application phase officially closes, the SAPS has informed applicants that they will no longer accept submissions through their website. Candidates whose profiles meet the specified requirements can anticipate being contacted within three months regarding the next steps of their application process. However, the police service has indicated that, due to the overwhelming number of applications received, those who do not meet the necessary criteria will not be notified. This massive response to the BPDLP serves as a clear testament to the dedication and commitment of South African youth to uphold justice and contribute positively to society. As the SAPS prepares to review the applications, all eyes will be on the next generation of police officers who will soon emerge, driven by their passion to protect and serve. IOL
Daily Maverick
08-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Maverick
Educated for leadership and engulfed by scandal, Minister Nkabane faces her sternest test
Calls have intensified for President Ramaphosa to dismiss Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane, whose recent appointments and conduct have sparked widespread public and political outrage. Nobuhle Nkabane, who was appointed as minister of higher education in July 2024, was once seen as an emerging leader with a seemingly impeccable record marked by extensive academic achievements and a steady rise in the public service. She was expected to bring renewed energy and reform to a critical portfolio. However, less than a year into her tenure, that optimism has been overshadowed by controversy. Allegations of corruption, misleading Parliament and making politically loaded appointments to the boards of Sector Education and Training Authorities (Setas) have sparked public outrage and legal and parliamentary scrutiny. Following the abrupt dismissal of Deputy Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Andrew Whitfield, the Democratic Alliance (DA) publicly called for the immediate removal of Nkabane. We take a closer look at Nkabane and the path that led her to the influential role she holds today. From rural roots to academic heights Nkabane's academic journey began in KwaZulu-Natal, where she attended Ibisi Primary School in Umzimkhulu and matriculated at Task Force High School. In 2001, she earned a Diploma in Business Administration from Durban University of Technology, according to her LinkedIn profile. From 2007 to 2009, she completed a Diploma in Youth Development at the University of South Africa (Unisa). From 2010 to 2014 she pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities at Unisa, focusing on government, administration and development. Her postgraduate studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal include a Bachelor of Administration, Honours (2015, cum laude), a Master of Administration in Public Administration (2016), and a PhD in Public Administration (2019). Alongside these, Nkabane completed several professional and executive programmes: a Compliance Management Programme at the University of Cape Town (2016–2017), Executive Development (NQF Level 7) at Stellenbosch Business School (2017), and participated in the African American European Summer School in Nancy, France. She expanded her qualifications with a postgraduate Diploma in Labour Law from the University of the Western Cape (2020), and in March 2025 obtained a Master of Science in International Business Administration from SOAS University of London. Currently, she is studying for a Master of Management in Energy Leadership at Wits Business School. Nkabane's ascent Nkabane's early career included roles as a personal assistant at Umzimkhulu Local Municipality and as a youth coordinator at Sisonke District Municipality. According to the South African Government website, her political journey began with leadership positions in the ANC Youth League (ANCYL) and the ANC Women's League across branch, regional, and provincial levels in KwaZulu-Natal. As a leader in the ANCYL Sisonke Region, she played a key role in the successful campaign to rename Sisonke District Municipality to Harry Gwala District Municipality, honouring the anti-apartheid stalwart. She was elected as a member of Parliament in 2019 and served on several portfolio committees, including Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation, Employment and Labour, and Sports, Arts and Culture. She was also a member of the committee that evaluated the Public Protector's fitness for office. In 2022, she joined the ANC National Executive Committee (NEC) and was appointed convenor of NEC deployees in Mpumalanga. In August 2021, Ramaphosa appointed her deputy minister of mineral resources and energy, a role she held until June 2024. On 3 July 2024, she was sworn in as minister of higher education in the Government of National Unity. Nkabane's promise to reform higher education The Higher Education Ministry had been beset by systemic failures and public distrust. Nkabane promised a decisive shift in how the sector, particularly the troubled National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), would be managed. The scheme was placed under administration in April 2024 after serious mismanagement and failure to deliver student allowances. In her maiden budget speech in Parliament on 16 July 2024, Nkabane pledged a full overhaul of the fund, promising to root out corruption. She also vowed to engage directly with student formations to better understand their daily struggles in accessing higher education. Another item high on her agenda was the accommodation crisis plaguing students. In February, Nkabane said that after consulting with landlords and student representatives, she had found common ground and was inspired by the voices of students. She also focused on the Setas, key to upskilling South Africa's youth. Her department allocated R333-million to support Seta programmes aiming to build a skilled and capable workforce to support inclusive growth. Strategic appointments to rebuild trust To steady the NSFAS ship, Nkabane appointed Waseem Carrim as its acting CEO, with a mandate to restore integrity and operational efficiency. She also reconstituted the NSFAS board. Carrim, a former National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) CEO, has since outlined ambitious plans to tackle governance failures and financial mismanagement at the agency. Another key appointment was Asanda Luwaca, chairperson of the NYDA, who was appointed as chairperson of the National Skills Authority on 7 May. These moves reflected Nkabane's focus on appointing young, capable leaders to steer the sector towards reform. Despite these bold commitments, many of the minister's promises have yet to materialise. Issues around student allowances, poor accommodation and delayed payments to landlords persist. Student protests have continued at university and TVET college campuses over the NSFAS's failure to disburse funds timeously. There have been reports of squalid living conditions, overcrowding and exploitative rents. Landlords have claimed the NSFAS failed to pay them for months. Earlier this year, more than 80 students at UCT lived in campus offices without proper facilities, while Wits students went on a hunger strike in protest at being excluded from registration because of historical debt. The Seta scandal: A growing storm However, the biggest crisis of her short tenure has stemmed from the Setas that she sought to empower. Opposition parties and civil society slammed a leaked list of 21 Seta board chairpersons, exposed by Daily Maverick, for including politically connected figures like Buyambo Mantashe and former KZN premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube. Critics accused Nkabane of nepotism, and in an open letter to Ramaphosa, DA MP Karabo Khakhau called for her dismissal. Nkabane rescinded the appointments, but the political fallout was significant. She established an independent panel to assist her in making appointments to the NSFAS and other entities. The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education demanded the names of the panellists, and Nkabane revealed five names: Advocate Terry Motau SC; Asisipho Solani; Nelisiwe Semane; Rhulani Ngwenya; and Mabuza Ngubane. However, Motau denied ever chairing the independent panel, contradicting Nkabane's claims. Nkabane later apologised for naming him. The other panellists she listed have held departmental roles for more than six months, according to their LinkedIn profiles, raising doubts about the panel's independence. On 30 June, the DA opened a criminal case against her for allegedly lying about the appointment process of ANC cadres to Seta boards, specifically disputing her claim that an independent panel chaired by Motau oversaw the appointments — a claim Motau denied. The following day, 1 July, the DA — a member of the coalition government — publicly opposed the Department of Higher Education and Training's budget vote in the National Council of Provinces, calling for Nkabane's removal due to the allegations against her. Throughout early July, the DA and opposition parties continued to reject her budget proposals amid ongoing concerns about corruption and trustworthiness, while Nkabane defended the department's R142-billion budget. She is expected to appear before the higher education portfolio committee, alongside her panel and deputy ministers Buti Manamela and Mimmy Gondwe, to answer allegations of misleading Parliament. On 23 June, TimesLIVE reported that the chair of the higher education portfolio committee, Tebogo Letsie, suggested that Nkabane might have breached section 17 of the Powers, Privileges and Immunities Act, which criminalises knowingly giving false information to Parliament, further intensifying calls for her accountability. Sasco president Alungile Kamtshe, who was at the ANC's Luthuli House headquarters on Sunday to address the state of the department, NSFAS and the Setas, said Nkabane had to be removed as minister. He said the issues faced by students were a result of Nkabane not delivering services to them. Daily Maverick sent questions to Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya on whether Ramaphosa had met with Nkabane to chart a way forward. No response had been received by the time of publication. However, the secretary-general of the ANC, Fikile Mbalula, said during a press briefing that Nkabane had had no intention of misleading Parliament over the Seta appointment process and the naming of Motau. 'We reject the Democratic Alliance's opportunistic laying of criminal charges against the minister,' said Mbalula. 'The DA's conduct is not grounded in legal principle but in performative politics… The minister has decided to restart the process afresh, in full compliance with legal provisions, and without the influence of the prior panel. We invite broader sectoral participation, including business, labour, and student organisations, in the spirit of cooperative governance, a process we fully support as the African National Congress.' For a minister who came in with promises to listen, clean up and restore dignity to the education sector, Nkabane now finds herself on the defensive. With her credibility under scrutiny, and trust from students, MPs and the public in question, her future as higher education minister hangs in the balance. DM
