Minister Thembi Nkadimeng, from the Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Administration (CoGTA), has revealed a new framework aimed at revitalizing the Community Work Programme (CWP). This initiative aims to tackle the challenges faced by the programme and transform it into a more sustainable and impactful project for the benefit of South Africa’s most impoverished communities.
During his address, Deputy President Mashatile touched upon a range of topics that have been affecting South Africa and its citizens. Apart from acknowledging the devastating impact of the COVID19 pandemic, he also spoke about the government’s efforts to combat it.
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.
As South Africa commemorates Africa Month, it is an opportunity to reflect on the country’s strides in building a united, nonracial, nonsexist, and prosperous society. Among the key areas where progress has been made is infrastructure development, spearheaded by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) under the stewardship of Minister Sihle Zikalala.
Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile recently visited the Imbali Campus of Umgungundlovu TVET College in Pietermaritzburg. The visit is a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to promote skills development and improve South Africa’s economy. Accompanied by various government officials, college representatives, and community leaders, the Deputy President highlighted the critical role of education and innovation in fostering a competitive global economy.
In honor of International Museum Day, the Stellenbosch University Museum is highlighting the transformative role of museums in society. From simply protecting artifacts to becoming powerful agents of change, museums have evolved over the years. ## Fostering Dialogue and Promoting Inclusivity
South Africa’s Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) recently presented its Budget Vote for the 2023/24 financial year. In response to the challenges faced by rural communities due to extreme weather events, the COVID19 pandemic, and an ongoing electricity crisis, the department emphasized several key initiatives aimed at empowering and uplifting these communities. The following sections highlight some of the initiatives described in the budget vote.
The Thaba Chweu Local Municipality recently celebrated the graduation of 20 learners from the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). These learners successfully completed their landscaping training and received certificates of competence. The Executive Mayor of Thaba Chweu Local Municipality, Honourable Councillor M.F. Nkadimeng, urged the graduates to use their newly acquired skills to establish businesses and create employment opportunities for others in their communities.
Supported Employment Enterprises (SEE) is committed to empowering individuals with disabilities by hosting a workshop that aims to discuss strategies for helping them transition into the labor market. The event, which is part of an ongoing series, will take place in Rustenburg, North West Province and is a collaboration with the Education for Employability (E4E) program.
Dr. Blade Nzimande, the South African Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation, expressed his deep sorrow over the recent passing of David Niddrie. Niddrie was a crucial adviser on national skills development policies and strategies and contributed immensely to the Department of Higher Education and Training and the Department of Science and Innovation.
The informal sector comprises a significant portion of the workforce in BRICS countries, with 62% of workers employed in this sector. However, the lack of formal training and education creates a skills gap and results in low productivity and work deficits. To promote decent work and reduce poverty, it is crucial to address this skills gap and incentivize a transition to formality.
The Africa’s Travel Indaba, held on May 10th, 2023, in Durban, provided an exceptional platform for stakeholders in the tourism industry to collaborate and establish meaningful connections. The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Mr. Fish Mahlalela, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of networking and addressing skills shortages in the hospitality and tourism services sector.
South Africa’s social grant system has helped reduce poverty and improve the lives of millions of South Africans. However, a recent study reveals that grant recipients still need to work on meeting their basic needs. ### The Role of Informal Work
The City of Cape Town’s Social Development and Early Childhood Development Department has launched the annual #YouthStart Entrepreneurial Challenge. The initiative aims to stimulate small businesses and/or ideas through skills development and innovation, contributing to job creation. ## New Challenge Categories Encourage Innovation
The Sentech Africa Tech Week Conference recently took place in Cape Town, bringing together key stakeholders from across the tech industry. The event aimed to explore new business opportunities in the African Tech industry and discuss the latest trends, insights, and best practices. One of the key topics discussed at the conference was the Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa (20202030).
