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WEDNESDAY 15 JANUARY 2014 WWW.EXPRESSNEWS.CO.ZA
THE 2013 matriculants who achieved eight distinctions in the Northern Cape are (from left) Huzaifah Numan (Boys’ High), Irfaan Kana (Northen Cape High School), Louisa Albertyn (De Aar), Farzaana Mohammed (Girls’ High), Tshenolo Mokwena (Girls’ High), Albert Steenkamp (Northen Cape High School), Madelein Farrell (Girls’ High) and Nooreen Nanabhay (Girls’ High). Photo: Emile Hendricks
Rich harvest for province Diamantveld, Girls’ High head the quest for better results } André Botha THE Northern Cape has a far richer harvest in distinctions than in 2012 with no less than three candidates who each scored nine distinctions in the 2013 matric exam. In addition, 14 pupils achieved 8 distinctions, while another 29 achieved 7 and 6 distinctions. This is in contrast to 2012, when the province had only one student with nine distinctions and four with eight distinctions. In 2011, 12 pupils achieved 8 distinctions and 19 have scored 7 distinctions each. The Diamantveld High School in Kimber-
ley and Kimberley Girls’ High dominated the list of top performers and also had a rich harvest of distinctions. Learners of Diamantveld, Nielda Smit and Annarike Pienaar, and Caitlin Klemp of Girls’ High are the three candidates with nine distinctions each. Girls’ High has four pupils with eight distinctions each and Diamantveld two. The Northen Cape High School also has two learners in the group. The schools that have learners with eight distinctions are Hartswater, De Aar, Namaqualand (Springbok), Martin Oosthuizen (Kakamas), Kalahari (Kuruman) and Kimberley Boys’ High.
The schools that have learners with seven distinctions each are Kalahari (4), Diamantveld (3), Northen Cape (2), Girls’ High, Hartswater, Concordia, Namaqualand (Springbok), Calvinia, Duineveld (Upington) and Adamantia (one at each school). The schools with learners with six distinctions are Diamantveld (3), Duineveld (2), Upington (2), Northen Cape, Girls’ High, Vaalharts, De Aar, Baitiredi Technical School and Douglas. Diamantveld which had 120 matriculants who passed, harvested the most distinctions in the Northern Cape with a total of 178.
FRANSONETTE NEL of Kalahari High School was the best matric pupil in the Northen Cape. Photo: Emile Hendricks
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EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE, WEDNESDAY 15 JANUARY 2014
HIV/Aids report on De Aar, Northern Cape BOIPELO MERE has been researching the phenomenon of HIV/Aids for the International Women’s Media Fellowship (IWMF), basing her research on De Aar in the Northern Cape, seeing as it is a pilot project site for the National Health Insurance Scheme. The aim of the fellowship is to identify the hidden truths and myths concerning HIV and Aids and report on them in an informative and truthful manner.
Government efforts to curb HIV bear fruit } Boipelo Mere
ALMOST 80% of De Aar’s population live below the bread line. As such, these people are particularly at risk from HIV/Aids. As the Northern Cape Department of Health describes it, “the association between HIV and poverty is defined as circular – the one feeds the other”. In De Aar, most people just focus on daily survival, rather than their health. They are stymied by a “crashing sense of powerlessness, leading to hopelessness, and in some cases, to risky sexual behaviour, including sex work (survival sex),” says Lulu Mxekezo, the department’s communications manager. Survival sex is compounded by intergenerational sex and a spike in sexually-related domestic violence, which makes implementing preventative measures difficult, as seen in the rise of HIV infections and the spread of associated sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The department reports that the number of victims reporting to health facilities due to sexual assault has shot up from 71 to 90 between 2011 and 2012. “This is in most cases related to alcohol abuse, which in turn results in violent behaviour. The number of people treated for sexually transmitted infections also increased by approximately 23,7% between 2011 and 2012,” says Mxekezo. Teen pregnancies have increased too, from 88 in 2010 to 106 in 2012, indicative of young girls having unprotected sex, putting them at risk of contracting STIs and HIV. “The situation calls for a concerted effort involving all key stakeholders such as the health sector, Social Development, police services, human rights and justice, civil society, traditional leaders, non-governmental organisations, faith-based organisations and the business sector,” says Mxekezo. De Aar falls within the Pixley ka Seme District Municipality, one of the ten pilot sites for the National Health Insurance (NHI) in South Africa. The department believes the implementation of the NHI will improve and
Poverty fuels vicious cycle } Boipelo Mere
THE temporary jobs for some of the community members in De Aar are no solution to the fact that they end up engaging in risky sexual behaviour, including sex work (survival sex). Photo: Boipelo Mere develop healthcare management, infrastructure and the recruitment of healthcare workers. Currently the department provides HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT) across the province and programmes to prevent and treat STIs, including providing male and female condoms (as well as training on its proper use). The department also provides anti-retroviral post-exposure prophylaxis for women who have been sexually assaulted, ARV treatment for HIV-positive people, treatment for TB patients and voluntary
‘The situation calls for a concerted effort involving all key stakeholders . . .’ – Lulu Mxekezo of the Northern Cape Department of Health
male medical circumcision. The provincial Department of Health, says Mxekezo, intends re-engineering the entire public healthcare approach to start at community level, establishing ward-based medical teams of professional nurses, medical officers and community healthcare workers. There are also plans to build new clinics and hospitals and upgrade existing ones, and also to implement the Integrated School Health Programme. Government interventions has borne fruit in De Aar, she says, reducing the prevalence of HIV-pregnant women from 11,9% in 2011 to 7,1% in 2012, after the rate rose from 12,6% to 15,1% between 2009 and 2011. The transmission of HIV from mother to child also declined dramatically by 15,7% between 2010 (19%) and 2012 (3,3%). This is an indication, she says, that government HIV/Aids programmes are making a positive impact in the community. ) Read more on p 3.
All of us at Harmony Gold are united by our values, ensuring that we measure, we measure up and we deliver.
Title: Instrument Technician Minimum requirements: • Relevant Trade Test as Instrument Mechanician • N6 + registered as a Professional Engineering Technician with ECSA or National Diploma in Electrical Light Current or Instrumentation (T3/S4) • Plant-specific PLC and Scada experience – Modicon PLC and Adroid Scada
Operation: Central Plant Roles and responsibilities: • Take responsibility and accountability for his/her section • Undertake routine maintenance and repairs • Attend to standby duties and work weekend overtime when required • Comply with the HRMS system • Comply with the planned maintenance system Contact person: Ntombi Lemena Designation: HRO Fax: 086 616 1802 E-mail: ntombi.lemena@harmony.co.za Closing date: 23 January 2014
If you have not received any correspondence within 21 days after the closing date, regard your application as having been unsuccessful
OUR VALUES www.humanjobs.co.za
THE devastation of reading a pamphlet about healthy living on an empty stomach. Patients tend to just read it and throw it away. Photo: Boipelo Mere
Human Communications 105410
FORMER PRESIDENT THABO MBEKI stunned the world when he announced that poverty, not HIV, was responsible for the Aids epidemic gripping Africa. He had refused to accept the signed memorandum of 5 000 scientists in what became known as the Durban Declaration, stating the exact opposite. By 2008, he was being accused of having put in place policies that cost at least 800 000 lives. But, what role does poverty play in the spread of the pandemic? De Aar in the Northern Cape is an apt site to sample. Railroads from Gauteng and the Northern Cape meet the ones from the Western and Eastern Cape. Many men were brought there to lay the tracks. They were joined by the truck drivers loading and unloading goods. They had left their families far behind. Drinking and casual sex were their chief forms of recreation. Today, the jobs are gone, but the drink and sex remain. As Boniswa Mvakuzwa’s* story attests. Boniswa was born and bred in Nonzwakazi, a largely Xhosa-speaking black township in De Aar. She has never worked, even though she obtained a matric certificate. Instead she lives off her grandmother’s pension. And then she fell for her former primary school teacher. “He was not that old, he lived alone and always appeared ruffled because of his drinking. I seriously thought I could help him regain his dignity while he supported my child and me,’’ she said. “It was not meant to be. He abused me verbally. He took our son to his home in the Eastern Cape. I witnessed his womanising. Eventually when I ended up in the clinic for what I thought to be stress, I was diagnosed with HIV,” said Boniswa. “I believed that he knew better than me, and even ignored warnings about his philandering. I attributed that to jealousy from other women and that was why I never insisted on condoms. I fell pregnant during our first three months together,” said Boniswa. She added that when a man proposes and you fall for him, in the back of your mind you also think about your financial security. She is just one of the many women who attend Nightingale Hospice run by Sister Delores Conor whenever they can. Here they give each other hope and learn how to keep to their drug regimen. It is hard for many of them to stay healthy. Opinions in De Aar are similar to Mbeki’s. HIV/Aids researcher Rose Smart believes the epidemic will peak in 2015. By then Aids orphans will comprise more than a tenth of the entire population, or even more starkly, between 3,6 and 4,8 million children under the age of 15 will be affected. According to Smart these children will be poor and unemployable. She said: “Unemployment is a major problem. It is demoralising to reach middleage without a job. Frustration leads to alcohol abuse and as you know, too much alcohol can land you in situations where you might not be responsible for your actions, including unprotected sex. Then there is the cheap homemade beer in the township,’’ she said. Social grants might not relieve poverty, but they are a source of income in an environment where there is little enough. “It is not a joke to say that because of poverty, girls will rather fall pregnant again and again in order to increase their social grants from R290 to R870. They abuse NGOs who collect abandoned children during the week to care for, clean and feed during the day.”
EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE , WEDNESDAY 15 JANUARY 2014
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HIV/Aids report on De Aar, Northern Cape
De Aar needs to mend its ways } Boipelo Mere THE people of De Aar need to change their attitude in 2014. If not, more will continue to drown in a toxic sea of hopelessness due to poverty, alcohol abuse and Aids. During my research in De Aar throughout the second half of 2013, it became clear that there was no point doling out medicine as a cure for stupidity and wilful ignorance. Government has done much to win the war against HIV/Aids. Under Pres. Jacob Zuma we have one of the biggest HIV/Aids programmes in the world, with almost two million people receiving antiretrovirals (ARVs) and close to 15 million people having undergone voluntary testing to know their status. In De Aar though, the work of determined individuals like Sr Delores Connor and her team shows up the efforts of provincial and local government officials in sharp relief. The community complains that not only are government initiatives never sustained, they are also not much more than windowdressing, events that showcase empty promises, as opposed to creating an environment where that which is launched is maintained, sustained and nurtured to the benefit of the communities. It is true that the government could also do more to support and encourage NGOs, like the Nightingale Hospice, in the HIV/Aids frontline. De Aar remains a perfect site for real government intervention. Chris van Krantenburg, a development worker at a local trauma centre, believes the life expectancy has dropped to a point where it actually threatens the local economy. If there were ever a perfect site for a pilot project for the National Health Insurance
(NHI) scheme, then perhaps it is De Aar. The construction of a hospital is underway and training local residents to work there could create sustainable jobs, alleviate poverty and end the spiral of ignorance around HIV and Aids. Most importantly though, those infected with HIV can receive care and those affected by HIV can receive education. The community also needs to change its ways. Women need to be freed from the social chains that enslave them. They have the right to withhold sex, and they have the right to demand their partners use condoms. They have the right to demand their men take responsibility. We cannot have teachers infecting (and impregnating) learners. We cannot have women having children by multiple fathers to get grants – and then have the biological fathers demanding their share of the “bonanza”. My research during December in De Aar shows just how big the chasm between reality and hope actually is. I spoke to some men (and women) employed by the government’s Extended Public Works Programme. They are employed, they are paid salaries, but the women are the ones responsible for feeding and clothing the children. The men endanger relationships, misusing scarce funds as they enjoy their “festive season” fuelled by alcohol and drugs, and by having casual unsafe sex with strangers. I asked one of the men if there were even a faint possibility of HIV/Aids being defeated. He looked me in the eye. “Nope,” he said. This is the battleground that is De Aar in 2014. ) This article is part of Boipelo Mere’s IWMF fellowship research.
ALCOHOL ABUSE can lead to risky sexual behaviour. This in turn can lead to diseases, pervasive of which is HIV/Aids. Photo: Boipelo Mere
Exciting Career Opportunity Kuruman United Manganese of Kalahari (Pty) Ltd (UMK), a leading empowerment company intent on sustainable mining and socio-economic development, seeks specialists to join its fast growing manganese mine. UMK has been awarded a Mining Right over 15 000 ha of land to the north of a dynamic Kuruman. Why not become part of the team that plans to mine an output of between 1,5 million and 2 million tonnes of manganese each year? With a life of mine in excess of 30 years, this well-poised company will be able to unlock your talents.
Process Plant Control Room Operator (Technical and Operational) (Ref. PPCRO 114836) Patterson Grade C Lower based on previous experience The Process Plant Control Room operator is a shift role responsible for the effective operational control and monitoring of the Process Plant through the control room control and management systems and to coordinate the general Mine situation as may be required. Responsibilities: • Mine operation within required parameters • Steady control of production circuit • React appropriately to abnormal activities and notify relevant Senior Officials and/or Operators by radio/telephone • Direct the activities of personnel on the mine to correct defects by allocating relevant tasks • Assist Engineering personnel to maintain equipment in Control Room area • Take charge during breakdowns and emergencies and notify standby personnel • Maintain and operate relevant fire/evacuation alarm system • Control entire process through utilisation of relevant control systems like SCADA • Ensure that the activities in the Control Room area match the requirements of the whole mine • Maintain steady volume control of the circuit by monitoring it within entire mine parameters • Call in expertise where needed • Ensure correct procedures are followed during start up and shut down of relevant circuits and equipment • Identify and communicate possible hazards and risks to responsible and affected personnel • Promote safety awareness in allocation of all tasks over radio/telephone • Compile accurate shift report at the end of each shift • Generate report and trends for management on request • Log any incidents, instructions and important changes made in the plant and record breakdowns should they occur • Changing tasks and machine settings on the shift to minimise the effect of unexpected problems • Stopping the operation if the working conditions are unsafe and pose hazardous environment • Enter job requests into the “KARABO” maintenance system. Minimum requirements: • Matric or equivalent education • Artisan trade qualification • Minimum of 5 years’ experience as an Artisan in the mining industry • Computer literacy and role specific computer skills • Report writing and communication skills • Systematic approach • High degree of numeracy. Key attributes (amongst others): • Ability to function within a team environment • Ability to work under pressure and be independent • System knowledge and application of relevant policies and procedures • Planning and organising skills • Interpersonal skills • SHE knowledge • Administration skills • Self-starter • Attention to detail • Results driven • Statutory knowledge of relevant legislation. Please note that the reference MUST be quoted on your application. Please note the following: • Successful candidates will be required to provide a valid medical certificate and may be required to undergo certain medical assessments • Psychometric and other assessments may be used as part of the selection process • Verification of all credentials may be done • Must be in possession of a valid driver’s licence.
How to apply: Interested applicants can forward an abridged CV to: recruitment@umk.co.za or fax: 086 236 1188. The onus is on you to ensure that the reference number is reflected on your application. Closing date: 31 January 2014. If you have not been contacted within 30 days after the closing date, kindly deem your application as unsuccessful. PREFERENCE WILL BE GIVEN TO EMPLOYMENT EQUITY CANDIDATES IN LINE WITH THE COMPANY’S EMPLOYMENT EQUITY PLAN. Only candidates who meet the stated requirements will be considered. APPLICATIONS RECEIVED AFTER THE CLOSING DATE WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED. www.ayandambanga.co.za 116296
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EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE, WEDNESDAY 15 JANUARY 2014
NEWS Building a world-class diamond group Kimberley Underground Mines JV
Kimberley Underground Mines JV is situated in the city of Kimberley in the Northern Cape. The Mine consists of 3 conventional slushier drift block cave mines.
Maintenance Planner The successful candidate will manage and control the maintenance and administration of the engineering computerised system and ensure upgrades, enhancement and functionality of the system. Tasks and responsibilities: • Adhere to the Mine’s safety, health and environmental programme • Continuously monitor trends in equipment failure and maintenance and advise the Section Engineer, Engineer and Engineering Foremen accordingly to ensure continuous improvement • Coordinate the maintenance management system • Determine schedules, sequences and assignments for work activities, based on work priority, quantity of equipment and skill of personnel • Ensure effective cost-saving initiatives • Ensure adherence to mine safety, health and environmental policies and procedures • Examine equipment and analyse information to determine needed services or repairs • Identify and compile an inventory list of production-related equipment • Maintain records of maintenance and component replacement or repairs for all equipment in the scheduled maintenance scheme • Oversee the lifespan of the machinery and equipment • Perform failure analysis on main line equipment • Prepare detailed specifications for the work to be carried out at the scheduled intervals • Prepare schedules for maintenance of equipment according to technical specifications and organisational standards • Receive information on maintenance or repair work carried out on equipment outside of the schedule of maintenance • Record, analyse and verify dates. Minimum requirements: • A Grade 12 • A trade certificate as an Electrician, Fitter, Boilermaker • 5 years’ experience in a mining/engineering environment • Familiarity with the On-key 4 planning programme. Other skills/competencies: • Computer literacy • Excellent people and teamwork skills • Knowledge of relevant legislation. (Ref. KUMJV038) Applications for this post: E1-Recruitment@petradiamonds.com or fax: 086 692 2442
Underground Auto Electrician The successful candidate will investigate, diagnose and perform trade-related maintenance on and repairs to trackless mobile machinery equipment, according to maintenance requirements. Tasks and responsibilities: • Perform inspections in accordance with the Mine Health and Safety Act’s regulations, as well as manufacturing and company standards • Report all defects and breakdowns on equipment and machinery to the foreman • Identify spares requirements for machinery and equipment and order according to departmental procedure • Assign corrective measures and follow up on outstanding/overdue actions • Complete maintenance job cards • Be on standby. Minimum requirements: • A Grade 12 or equivalent NQF level 4 • A valid trade certificate obtained from a recognised/accredited institution, preferably MQA or MIERRB (Mining Industry Engineering Trade Test Board) • A Code EB (08) driver’s licence. Code EC (14) driver’s licence would be an advantage • A valid Medical Certificate of Fitness or medically fit to obtain one • 3-4 years’ post-apprentice experience in and knowledge of TMM, faultfinding and repairs and hydraulic/diesel TMM • The ability to communicate in English (written and verbal). Other skills/competencies: • Excellent interpersonal skills • The ability to work within a demanding work environment, independently and part of a team • High work ethic. (Ref. KUMJV039) Applications for this post: E2-Recruitment@petradiamonds.com or fax: 086 659 1334
C&I Mechanician The successful candidate will be required to make the whole extraction process more effective and efficient. Tasks and responsibilities: • Install, commission and maintain instrument equipment used to measure and control temperature, flow, vibration, density, level, pressure and mass • Install, maintain and find faults on the telecommunication system, eg telephones, and overhaul pneumatic cylinders • Install and test instrumentation to ensure compliance with functionality and maintenance requirements • Utilise multiskilling competencies, eg plating, fitting, rigging and electrical, in the erection, construction and installation of all instrumentation-related projects and upgrades • Maintain good relationships with operational personnel. Minimum requirements: • A Grade 10, NATED 1/NCV Level 1 (Grade 12, NATED 3/NCV Level 3 would be an added advantage) • A passed Trade Test in the applicable trade from a recognised/accredited institution, preferably MQA or MIETTB (Mining Industry Engineering Trade Board) • A valid medical Certificate of Fitness or medically fit to obtain one • The ability to communicate in Afrikaans or English (written and verbal) • A Code EB (08) driver’s licence • 3-4 years’ post-apprentice experience • Experience in the maintenance of Allen Bradley PLCs, SCADA system (in Touch), industrial networking (TCP/IP, Device NET) would be an advantage. Other skills/competencies: • Previous underground experience would be an added advantage • Independent, proactive thinking • The ability to do own job planning and make decisions. (Ref. KUMJV037) Applications for this post: E2-Recruitment@petradiamonds.com or fax 086 659 1334 Kimberley Underground Mines JV is an equal opportunity employer. Preference will be given to suitable candidates from the designated groups in line with the Company’s Employment Equity Policy and Plan. Pre-screening, profile testing, on-mine assessments, medical and security clearance form part of the recruitment and selection process. Shortlisted candidates will be required to attend a panel interview. Employment of the successful candidate is subject to the aforementioned criteria. Preference will be given to candidates who reside within our host labour sending area of Kimberley (proof of residence may be requested). Please complete an application form (available on http://www.petradiamonds.com/ careers/current-vacancies) and forward, together with your résumé, qualifications and ID, to the contacts mentioned at each post before or on 31 January 2014. Please note that incomplete application forms and documentation will not be considered. If you have not heard from us within 30 days of the closing date, please regard your application as unsuccessful. http://www.petradiamonds.com/careers/current-vacancies www.humanjobs.co.za
Human Communications 105606
PASTOR ANDRIES NOVEMBER received R1,2 million from his congregation. He promised to rebuild their church. Here he stands in front of two of his more than 20 cars. Photo: Marinus Mulder
PASTOR ANDRIES NOVEMBER in his church, a shack structure.
Pastor receives R1,2 m } Palesa Motshabi THE R1,2 million that a local church congregation offered their pastor was not for him personally, but will be used to build a church. The money was presented at an annual appreciation ceremony in December, said Pastor Andries November from the Victorious Faith Ministries in Phase 6, Bloemfontein. Pastor November, as he is known by his followers, told Express Northen Cape the money was not going into his pocket. He would build a big, beautiful church for his people. “One of my focuses this year is to build a church, because we have almost 5 000 people attending church every Sunday and this is a
challenge, because some members have to stand and listen through the window,” he said. It was reported that the wellknown pastor received more than R1 million from his congregation in Botshabelo, Bloemfontein, and Kimberly branches. According to November the money was from everyone who attended the church and those who watch him on the GNF TV programme on DStv throughout the year. Pastor November used to be a taxi driver in Anasrus, next to Soutpan. He believes in sharing and miracles and specialises in helping people who have financial problems, people whose businesses have collapsed and those who want to
grow their businesses. He teaches people about giving in order to receive more in life. “I gave away more than five cars in my time as a pastor.” At the moment he has more than 20 cars, he said. To help people grow their business, he uses water and olive oil, and then pray for them. November has been giving back to his community. He buys food and clothes for those residents of Bloemfontein and Kimberly who cannot afford it. He added that he had also bought school uniforms and stationery for learners at a school in Thaba Nchu. “I will be giving microwaves, fridges and clothes to old-age homes in Bloemfontein, Botshabelo, and Kimberley very soon,” he said.
Integrity in SAPS emphasised } Boipelo Mere LT GEN. JANET BASSON, the Northern Cape provincial commissioner, strongly emphasised the integrity and professional conduct of all members in the SAPS. She said there was no room for corrupt police officials because it was the SAPS’s mandate to fight crime, not commit crime. That was during Basson’s and her management team’s 2014 staff indaba. The indaba will be kick-started and is expected to be rolled out to all clusters throughout the province during January.
She highlighted that the main objective of the indaba was to afford the opportunity to both management and members to engage with each other in order to boost morale and generate unity amongst themselves against crime. Reminding the staff that crime definitely did not pay, Basson promised that those police officials who continued to dabble in criminal activities would undoubtedly face the full might of the law. Basson emphasised the importance to utilise the resources provided by SAPS Employee Health and Wellness including
psychological services, spiritual services, social work services and quality of work life management. She encouraged members to make use of the services at their disposal which were free of charge and appealed to members to open up and share their frustrations and experiences of their work in an effort to reduce the number of suicides in the SAPS. Basson encouraged members to attend and participate in these sessions as external “walkabout” engagements would also be held within communities in due course.
Winner can realise dreams TELLO CHRISTIAN from Douglas is the ninth winner in the Cell C Believe and Win promotion. He is taking home R100 000 to help make his dreams come true. Being a miner in Douglas in the Northern Cape, Tello could hardly believe he had won. He entered the Believe and Win Competition where he shared his dream of starting his own computer business in his hometown with Cell C. Believe and Win is part of Cell C’s Believe Campaign, the company’s way of reminding people that South Africa is filled with great people. All Cell C customers are automatically entered into Believe and Win by making a one minute call every day for a week.
BOKANG MONTJANE handing over the R100 000 cheque to Tello Christian.
Photo: Supplied
EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE , WEDNESDAY 15 JANUARY 2014
NEWS
Be careful of fly-by-night institutions } Boipelo Mere AS thousands of matrics scramble to secure a space at universities and colleges, an education expert has warned prospective students to ensure they carefully scrutinise institutions before signing. Dr Felicity Coughlan, director of the Independent Institute of Education (IIE), urge students to interrogate institutions when applying. These are the few key questions: ) What is the status of their certificate of
registration with the Department of Higher Education. It should detail the campus, provider and the qualifications offered. No certificate, no go. ) All higher education qualifications need to be accredited by the Higher Education Quality Committee of the Council on Higher Education. If they are not accredited, they will not appear on the certificate referred to above. The accredited qualification must only appear on this document. ) Ask for the SAQA NQF identity numbers.
FOCUS ON GWK PROPERTIES
Advice for buyers } Erika Venter FOR the next few weeks GWK Properties will publish a series of articles informing Express Northern Cape readers about property investment in Kimberley. This will be written by Erika Venter on behalf of GWK Properties, a division of GWK. This is the first article in the series. GWK Properties has been in operation for four years. The initial aim was to focus on the buying and selling of agricultural land, but the business has expanded to residential property in Kimberley, Douglas, Hopetown, Boshof, Vanderkloof, Barkly West, Delportshoop, Prieska, Hartswater, Bloemfontein, Eastern Free State, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu Natal. GWK Properties has three areas of business: ) buying and selling of residential, agricul-
tural and commercial property; ) home loans; ) rentals. The residential market in Kimberley for property is good, due to the university and the Northern Cape being nominated as an area for power generation and as a new mining area. GWK Properties has acquired the sole mandates for a number of new developments in Kimberley and the purpose of the weekly property information articles will be to take the first-time home owner through the process of acquiring a property. We are looking forward to hear your questions on the purchasing of your first property. Please send us your questions to gwkproperties1@gmail.com. You can also call one of our agents on 053-832-0734.
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NEWS
Suspects arrested Ilse Watson SEVERAL suspects have been arrested after a number of armed robberies on a farm in the Kuruman area and several house-breakings in the Kuruman town and suburbs. “During
these incidents house contents and some other valuables were stolen. They also stole electrical appliances,” said Kuruman Police Crime Prevention head, Capt. Ben Phete. Phete, Lt Frans Matlhare of the K9-unit and Lt Estelin
Jonkers worked day and night following up on the leads and information to arrest the culprits. Five suspects were arrested for house-breaking and two for illegal possession of fire-arms.
THE 9 mm pistol that was recovered by the Kuruman Police in the Bankhara area. Photo: Supplied
Arrests made after N14 chase Ilse Watson
A NUMBER of suspects were arrested and a 9 mm pistol confiscated after a high-speed chase on the N14 near Kuruman. According to the police, Lt. Frans Matlhare and other members of the K9-Unit spotted a suspicious-looking vehicle during routine patrols in Kuruman. The driver of the vehicle sped off when realising that the police were watching their moves.
THE frontloader revolver that was recovered by the Kuruman Police.
A chase ensued on the N14. The suspects eventually abandoned the vehicle and ran into the veld. The police followed their tracks and arrested the suspects. The vehicle was also confiscated. A firearm that was found in the veld, was stolen during a housebreaking at a farm residence in the Kuruman area, said Capt. Ben Phete, Kuruman Police Crime Prevention head. The suspects are still in police custody.
Photo: Supplied
Brand SA encourages growth in education
WITH the 2014 school year beginning today, Brand South Africa has urged all teachers to deliver quality education for the growth and development of the country. Brand SA has also called on learners to be committed to their future by focusing on their studies. Miller Matola, Brand South
Africa CEO, said according to the 2013 Results for Learning Report, there had been an increase in the number of children attending and completing primary school as well as having access to lower-secondary schools. “We have also recently welcomed an improved matric pass rate. This is good news since education is the foundation of a
country’s development. “We, therefore, urge learners and teachers to be committed to being in the classroom, teaching and learning.” Brand SA urged the youth, particularly the 2014 gr. 12 learners, to remain dedicated throughout the year and aim high to achieve the results they are capable of. – SAnews
Body yet to be identified THE Vredendal Police in the Western Cape are urgently trying to trace the identity of an unknown woman who was allegedly murdered. Her decomposed body was found on Friday, 30 November, 2012 near a sewerage dam in Vredendal North. At the time of her death, the woman was clad in blue jeans with a blue and white check sleeveless top. A grey and white hooded jacket and red slip-on sandals were lying next to her body. The woman had sustained multiple wounds to her body, face and head. The age of the woman could not
be determined due to the advanced state of decomposition. Police believe that she could have been a seasonal worker and it may be possible that she was from the Northern Cape. The woman has since been given a state burial as attempts to trace any next of kin proved futile at that time. The Vredendal Police are investigating a case of murder. Anyone who may be able to identify the woman is asked to contact the investigating officer, Constable Vumazonki, on 073-2123167 or the Vredendal Police on 027-201-3244.
SOLLY MATHIBA is a participant in Survivor SA. DO you recognise this woman? Photo: Supplied
Patient’s identity still unknown THE Northern Cape Department of Health continues to ask the community’s assistance to identify an unknown female patient at the Kimberley Hospital. The department encourages people to contact the Kimberley Hospital as soon as possible. “The patient is estimated to be
about 30 years old and was admitted to the Kimberley Hospital on 9 December in a critical condition,” the departement stated in a press release. It was further revealed that she was found lying unconscious next to a road and brought to the Kimberley Hospital by ambulance.
Attempts to trace her family have not yielded any positive results. “The patient was badly injured when she was brought to the emergency centre of the hospital. “The SAPS has also stated that nobody had been reported missing so far,” the statement read.
Photo: Supplied
Solly a ‘Survivor’ ONE of Kathu’s very own residents is a contestant in die brand new season of the challenging reality show, Survivor South Africa. Solly Mathiba, sports director at the Kalahari Country Club, competed in this gruelling test of strength and character in the last part of 2013. This is the fifth season of the
South African Survivor series. The series includes the former Bafana-Bafana soccer star Mark Fish and ex-Springbok rugby captain Corné Krige who will be leading the two competing teams. Make sure you support Mathiba and watch Survivor SA from 19 January at 17:30 on M-Net.
EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE , WEDNESDAY 15 JANUARY 2014
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Proud of their achievements MATRICULANTS of the Northern Cape High School went to collect their results as early as possible at school. From the 190 learners that sat for the 2013 matric examination, 185 passed. Bragging from the left with their results are Adele Kruger, Danelle Labuschagne, Chanelle Roos, Tiisetso Moepeng, Roché Fredericks, Tasha van Wyk and Alicia Wiese with their important piece of paper. Photo: Ruan Bruwer
MUCH SATISFIED with their results and certificates are from the left Botshepo Keria, Keletso Setungwane, Charlotte Seswai, Rebaone Modise and Keitumetse Maleho of the Kalahari High School who went to collect their results on 7 January. Photo: Ilse Watson
TOP SCHOOLS in John Taolo Gaetsewe are (from the left with certificates) Remmogo High represented by George Masengala, Phakane High School’s Jeffery Marotobolo and Kalahari High’s Johan Jonker. With them are Education Department officials. Photo: Emile Hendricks
MOST-IMPROVED SCHOOL, Remmogo High represented by George Masengela, and Maretha Hugh of the Diamantveld High School, best Maths and Physical Science, with the Northern Cape MEC for Education, Grizelda Cjiekella-Lecholo.
TOP Frances Baard school awards were scooped by (from the left with certificates) Vaalharts High represented by Gerrie Erasmus, Adamantia High represented by Jeremy Hendrikse and Girls’ High School represented by Helen Hugo with officials of the Northern Cape Department of Education. Photo: Emile Hendricks
TOP-ACHIEVING NORTHERN CAPE MATRICS were awarded at a ceremony held at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre in Kimberley. Pictured are best in Maths, Gomolemo Matlholanyane, with MEC Grizelda Cjiekella-Lecholo and Boitumelo Mosiapoa.
Photo: Emile Hendricks
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EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE, WEDNESDAY 15 JANUARY 2014
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Dream reality for youngster } Sidwell Guduka OCEAN XI FC may be an unknown local amateur football outfit, but the future of one of their star players is looking bright. Tyrone Mondi (17) from Heidedal in Bloemfontein was chosen from thousands of hopefuls for a once-in-a-lifetime scholarship in the United Kingdom (UK). He jetted off to London, England, on Sunday. Leaving behind his friends and family, he is persuing his dreams of playing professional football after being picked by a scouting team led by Bolton Wanderers’ International Soccer School manager, David Bailey. “At the moment I’m feeling as normal as I always do. Obviously, when I touch down in Manchester, the feeling will definitely be quite different. Once I get over there I will just need to focus on both my job and education. “I’ll also have to keep my head down and my feet on the ground,” a down-to-earth Mondi told Express Northern Cape before he left the country for the UK. “I want to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, because not every youngster is as lucky to get it. I want to use this opportunity to learn and be one step closer to my personal dream of becoming a professional football player. “I feel really privileged, because every teenager wants to have the same opportunity I have. Everywhere I go people stop and ask me how I got it. They say they want SHAKING HANDS: Tyrone Mondi with David Bailey, the International Soccer School manager of Bolton Wanderers. their children to have the same opportunity I have,” he said. “I already have friends that side who providing opportunities for the boys from The former Brebner High School learner underwent trials with me at Wanderers. the Free State, but also promoting the added that this would not have been One of them is from America and the province as a whole by means of targeted possible without God. He said these things other from South Korea. Both of them advertising in the UK,” Rasthoem Simons, were made possible because he was stayed behind in England when I returned general manager of Simsport International, faithful to God. home in October. I’ll be catching up with said. “I’m grateful to God for this opportunity. them when I get back,” he said. Wanderers send out scouts and coaches I’m doing this because God wants me to. I Mondi’s trip to the UK was made to find the best 80 young players for their always tell my friends that once you come possible through a three-year partnership Grand Skills Programme every year. into contact with Jesus, it’s never the between the Free State Tourism Authority, They visit Nigeria, Canada, Colombia, same. I just believe I should give back to Simsport International and Bolton WanAustralia, America and many other Him because He has trusted me and He deres FC. Every year Wanderers’ scouts countries to find the top players. has given me the talent.” come to Bloemfontein, scouting for talent Mondi has been offered a scholarship Mondi said he had never been away in the Free State. that will see him joining the Bolton from his parents for a long time, but is “Going into our fourth year with this Wanderers Academy and furthering his sure he would cope. project we are extremely excited at the studies at the same time. His 18-month “I’m sure after a few weeks I’ll be settled possibilities for the future. scholarship is worth about R395 000. in and get to know people. As a footballer “We are not only happy that we are you have to adapt to every situation.
Ghana, Lybia battle it out } Sidwell Guduka ETHIOPIA and Congo will be looking to bounce back to their winning ways when they square off at the Free State Stadium on Friday. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00. The two sides kicked off their African Nations Championship poorly on Monday with Ethiopia going down 0-2 to Lybia, while Congo was humbled by 1-0 against Ghana at the same venue. In another match on Friday, Ghana will battle it out against Lybia in a match that has all the ingredients of a humdinger.
Both teams will be confident going into the game after registering morale-boosting wins in their previous encounters. “We urge the Free State people to buy tickets for the CHAN tournament in their numbers like they did during the 2009 Confederations Cup and 2010 Fifa World Cup which were hosted in our city,” Thabo Manyoni, the executive mayor of the Mangaung Metro Municipality, appealed. The official attendance for Monday’s matches in Bloemfontein was 7 465. Tickets for Friday’s matches cost R40 at CompuTicket outlets.
Photo: Sidwell Guduka