South Africa’s Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation, Dr. Blade Nzimande, recognizes the essential role of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in addressing the country’s most pressing issues. The STI Presidential Plenary Forum, established by the Minister, seeks to unite multiple sectors in implementing a science for social justice agenda.
South Africa has been struggling with high unemployment rates for a long time, which have only been further exacerbated by the COVID19 pandemic. To combat this issue, the government has made job creation a priority in its economic recovery plan. One sector with tremendous potential for employment is the construction industry, and the Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure is leading the charge in transforming the country into a bustling construction site.
The Kusile Power Station is an ambitious project that has been in construction for over a decade. With an estimated cost of R160 billion, it is one of the largest coalfired power stations in the world, with a capacity to generate 4,800 megawatts of electricity upon completion.
The City of Cape Town has recently launched its Energy Safety Team on May 24, 2023, to safeguard its electricity infrastructure. The initiative, led by Councillor Beverley van Reenen and Alderman JP Smith, aims to collaborate with law enforcement agencies and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to focus on the protection of the City’s electricity infrastructure in the metro.
The Electoral Reform Consultation Panel is a significant step towards refining and improving South Africa’s electoral process. This panel is composed of members who will play a vital role in investigating, consulting, reporting, and making recommendations for potential reforms for the National Assembly and provincial legislature elections. The panel members’ selection process ensures that they possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience required to perform the task effectively.
The LEAP initiative, implemented in the Western Cape as part of the Western Cape Safety Plan, has achieved significant progress in reducing crime rates since its initiation in 2020. ### Reduction of Murder Rates
The Western Cape has been facing significant energy challenges, including load shedding, high energy costs, and an overreliance on fossil fuels. To address these issues, the government has been actively exploring alternative energy sources, with a particular focus on green hydrogen.
Biodiversity and Climate Change: A Threat to Humanity Biodiversity loss and climate change are critical concerns that threaten the existence of humanity. Urgent action is required to safeguard ecosystems and the millions of species that rely on them.
The Department of Social Development recently hosted dialogues in Houtbay to discuss the importance of positive parenting and child protection, with a particular focus on boys. These discussions took place ahead of the Child Protection Week campaign launching on 28 May 2023. During the dialogues, boys emphasized the need for counseling, education, and support for parents to learn positive parenting techniques.
The Gauteng Geographical Names Committee (GGNC) plays a critical role in preserving the cultural and historical heritage of Gauteng Province. As one of eight provincial geographical names committees in South Africa, it guides local authorities in the naming and renaming of geographical features within the province.
Plastic pollution has become a significant global concern due to its harmful impact on the environment, wildlife, and human health. The production and disposal of plastic present several challenges that require immediate action. The second Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC2) on Plastic Pollution aims to develop a comprehensive, legally binding global instrument to address these challenges.
The digital divide is a significant challenge in South Africa, with many citizens lacking access to essential services such as education and healthcare due to limited internet connectivity. To address this issue, the government has launched the SA Connect program, which aims to provide highspeed internet connectivity to all citizens, regardless of their location or economic status.
The District Six community has a long and complex history, with over 60,000 inhabitants being forcibly removed during apartheid in the 1970s. The community has been fighting to reclaim the land and rebuild the area to its former glory since then.
The South African Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) has unveiled its initiatives and investments in the 2023/24 budget vote. With a focus on science, technology, and innovation, the department aims to overcome the country’s challenges and promote growth through various projects and programs. Keep reading to learn more about the DSI’s key initiatives.
The admissions process can be a stressful and overwhelming experience for parents, especially those applying for the first time. However, by taking necessary steps and ensuring all requirements are met, parents can make the process more efficient and less stressful. One crucial step in this process is verifying login details.
The 76th World Health Assembly is a significant event for the global health community. The Assembly provides member states with an opportunity to come together and discuss healthcare delivery, public health, and the challenges faced by countries worldwide, especially those related to the COVID19 pandemic.