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Support for the arts Gato mentors art groups in Northern Cape
} Boipelo Mere SEITISHO SEMERI from Seoding in Kuruman is looking forward to reviving the Theatre Practitioners Cultural Group, which she used to be a member of. For her this seems possible after completing the Northern Cape Galeshewe Theatre Organisation’s (Gato) organised series of mentoring programmes for the various arts groups in the province. The last achievement of the Theatre Practitioners was a few years ago, when they were crowned the best cultural group in a Seda competition. The group split up after this. Due to the high unemployment rate in their area, Semeri and a fellow member, who attended the workshop held by Gato over the weekend, see this as a job creation opportunity for rural communities, where talent seems to be forgotten. Founded by Moagi Modise, who is the artistic director, and his two partners, Nkululeko Ngqozo and Phemelo Sediti, Gato offers local artists training in development and theatre and does mentoring on weekends in an effort to create an outstanding theatre group in the country. Their first intake was over the weekend with a group of 17 artists from the John Taolo Gaetsewe, Frances Baard and Dr Joe Mcuwa Districts, who are leaders of different arts groups. According to Modise, this is a way of giving back to his community after his career as an artist, which started in 1985. In an effort to salvage the little of what is left of the arts and culture, Gato aims to make the recognition of local groups easier, to avoid them experiencing the difficulties of the registration process, as is now the case. “We aim at mentoring them to take culture to a professional level and be able to source funding and earn a living. In the five years since our inception, we have also experienced problems with registration among other things. Thus we are bringing the solution to locals, especially those in rural areas. We believe that they should get paid for what they love doing,” Modise says. However, Modise highlights that the biggest challenge in the province is the distance.
MANDISA DANGAZELE (left) facilitated the first session for various art groups, organised by the Northern Cape Galeshewe Theatre Organisation (Gato), at the Mayibuye Centre over the weekend. Photo: Boipelo Mere “Travelling in our province is more expensive than anywhere else.” He says that they wish to train more than 20 groups by 2015 in order for the groups not to just look to government departments, but to take charge of their destiny. “We want to end the questions that the top 25
potential funders at national level always ask when they provide opportunities: ‘Where is the Northern Cape?’. They (artists) must be able to go international through networking,” emphasises Modise. Modise also points out that it always sounds like the Northern Cape is 18 years behind South
Africa, because it is difficult to know how and what to ask the government departments. “We can only determine from the current group that we train, as to whether the the programmes reach expectations,” concludes Modise.
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Free State Saiosh hosting exhibition, conference THE Free State branch of the South African Association for Occupational Safety and Health (Saiosh) will present a conference and exhibition at the President Hotel, Bloemfontein, on 21 November. Registration is at 08:00 and the conference starts at 09:00 Topics include legal updates by the Department of Labour, registration of
practitioners in the construction field, training service providers, specifications and safety plans. The exhibition will offer the latest products in the occupational safety and health field. Costs are R295 per person. Bookings are essential. To book a place send an email to info@saiosh.co.za. or phone Gillian Sue on 031-708-4575 or 082-701-9149.
GR. R LEARNERS of the Kim-Kgolo Primary School who were amongst all the learners who were awarded certificates during the school’s recent prize-giving ceremony at the RC Elliot Hall in Galeshewe, are from the left Isagontle Ikaneng, Refiloe Letshaba, Marumo Leoma and Mieta Chupido. Photo: Boipelo Mere
EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE , WEDNESDAY 6 NOVEMBER 2013
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Diamond Park to get houses } Lerato Sebe DIAMOND PARK residents were pleased to hear that the municipality will soon be installing electricity, a water system as well as a sewerage system in the community as from this month. Dancing and cheering in excitement while wearing their yellow ANC t-shirts that were given to them on the morning of the event, the residents expressed excitement for the launch of their housing development. The event was graced by the presence of the executive mayor of the Sol Plaatjie Municipality, Agnes Ntlhangula, the municipal manager, Goolam Akhawaray, and the MEC for Corporate Governance, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA). The launch is expected to be followed by the development of new houses for the residents. “When we build a community, it’s not only about building houses, but also about developing a community. We are at a time where we have to execute the delivery of services like electricity, water and sewerage systems for communities,” said Akharwaray. According to Botes, the houses are allocated to those who are considered a high priority on the list that Councillor Tsholofelo Morwe has in his possession. He indicated that the beneficiaries who would receive the first 100 houses were those who had never owned an RDP house, those with disabilities and also the elderly. “Government deals with the poorest of the poor first. We are not going to issue young people with houses before we issue the elderly citizens,” he said. Akhawaray said families that had many children in their households would also be top priority. He further revealed that there were 1 150
GOOLAM AKHARWARAY, the Sol Plaatje municipal manager, addressing the community. beneficiaries in Diamond Park but they would not be building 1 150 houses. Botes mentioned that the total budget for this development project was R100 million and with that amount, a church, an Early Childhood Development (ECD) centre and a recreational facility had to be built for the community too. “An ECD centre is important in the community so that our children can have the same level of education as those that attend such centres in the suburbs,” he said. “We are going to make sure Diamond Park is just as beautiful as Lerato Park.”
He also assured them that by next year on 16 June all the services would have been installed and then the building of the houses would commence. Botes warned those present at the event that there would be a monitoring team that would monitor the community to prevent new informal settlements being erected in the area from now on. Chiree Baise (23), a disabled woman in a wheelchair who is one of the beneficiaries of the first 100 houses, could not contain her excitement when her name was called to collect her “green application form”.
Photo: Emile Hendricks/Photo24
The form was to ensure that their name remained on the list of beneficiaries to receive a house. “I’ve been living in a shack in Diamond Park with my parents and younger sister since 2005. I’m very happy that we are finally getting a house,” said Baise. Another beneficiary, Abel Powe (68), lives with his wife, granddaughter and two other family members in a shack. His granddaughter, Yolanda Katz, said: “My grandfather once owned a house in Greenpoint that was sold by his son against his will.”
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NEWS
THE national secretary general, Gilbert Mosena, the senior vice-president, Churchill Mrasi, and a member and president of the Youth Chamber, Chuma Shweni, attended the workshop. Photo: Kwena Komape
KWENA KOMAPE (citizen journalist).
Photo: Supplied
} Kwena Komape THE national deputy president of the National African Federated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NAFCOC), Steve Skhosana, emphasised that leaders must be the “movers and shakers� and not the other way around. Skosana said this during their recent Northern Cape workshop in Kimberley as a continuation of their provincial road shows. The workshop was attended by the leaders of different sectors within the organisation under the theme Competitive Edge. According to Nafcoc, the competitive edge programme puts emphasis on promoting gender equity amongst the leaders, since it is not only men who are involved in businesses, especially in local small businesses. The fact that the organisation (Nafcoc) in itself does not have a women leader in the executive was a general concern as the organisation in itself does not find itself to be leading by example. At the event Skhosana said the involvement of women has always been encouraged in Nafcoc, but it seems to be an on-going challenge. For a successful LED, the community must have a leader who is innovative, strategic and engaging. The main aim of the workshop was to make sure that leaders of small businesses are equipped with the correct tools to enable them to increase economic and employment opportunities within their communities. Leaders were in agreement that the Competitive Edge programme was an eye opener.
EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE , WEDNESDAY 6 NOVEMBER 2013
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Service held to motivate matrics } Boipelo Mere IT is no use making a noise that you are in matric or will work hard. Actions speak louder than words. Show us that you can do it and make us proud,” Duduetsang Setatwe said during the prayer service for all learners at the Centenary Methodist Church in Galeshewe. Setatwe, who testified that a similar prayer was hosted for her and her fellow matriculants in 1999, was the keynote speaker at the prayer service. Currently a technician at Telkom, the young woman says she was given strength and the power to strive further by the prayer sessions throughout her academic years. She encouraged the learners to rise early and work hard. “When God’s finger points at you, it is not a mistake, with His wish everything is possible. You do not have to wait for God’s help or intervention only in gr. 12. Seeking God’s presence is an achievement on its own,” emphasised Setatwe. She pointed out that everyone can turn out to shine like a diamond instead of cracking like an egg. Omphemetse Louw, who is also a Law graduate, testified that worshipping has done wonders for him throughout his academic journey. He continued to urge parents not to push their children too hard with the aim of
accomplishing. Rev. John Thibane encouraged the learners not to turn out like the five virgins who were turned away at the doors of heaven due to unpreparedness. Referring to his chosen script of The Ten Virgins Thibane emphasised that the learners are expected to have made means to prepare for their final examinations throughout the year already. “It is too late to start building the ark because the master is here already. It is too late for you to go and get some extra oil. It is too late for you to go and look for a tree to build your ark on. “This is a time for you to have no doubts, it depends on you whether you are armed. I want to believe that you are not amongst the foolish five virgins,” preached Thibane. He reminded the learners that everybody had done their best to equip them. “I can see the word ‘ready’ already written on your foreheads,” he concluded It was all about the school learners on the day, whereby the service was held in a form of a career advice session where officials from the Northern Cape FET College, the Sol Plaatje University and bursary scheme addressed the learners on what is on offer on completion of their studies. Boston Lecholo, the NCFET college representative, presented in an effort to clarify the misconception
that the FET colleges are for low performers and highlighted the learning opportunities available. Academics were dressed in their academic garments to motivate the learners to become successful in their lives. Responding to the melodious tune of the South African Police Band, Amadodana ase Wesile and the youth, the congregation sang Ga a yo mathata along in unison.
DUDUETSANG SETATWE during the prayer service. Photo: Boipelo Mere
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Museums important } Boipelo Mere
ISHMAEL MBOKODO, senior specialist: heritage management, explains the values and benefits of a museum. Photo: Boipelo Mere
PROF. BRUCE RUBIDGE of the Centre of Excellence in Palaeosciences encourages museums to employ the relevant people with the right qualifications in order to provide excellent services. Highlighting the important role that the museums play in the careers and lives of palaeoscientists at universities and museums in the country, Rubidge said it is sad that this is done against a backdrop of dwindling resources. “Museums especially have the important task of curating the priceless palaeoscience treasures of the country, but these collections have very little relevance unless they are extensively used for research, and this is only possible if museums have palaeoscience departments which have a strong research focus and employ productive researchers,” said the professor. He highlighted this during his keynote address at the three-day 77th National Museums conference that was recently held in Kimberley, which focused on the role of museums in celebrating and conserving the cultural and natural heritage of South Africa. The conference attracted representatives from the museum and heritage sector where they focused on discussions on best practice and standards of museums.
“This means that these collections stand the risk of suffering at the end of the day if museums do not take the responsibility,” he emphasised. Rubidge is amongst the 29 palaeoscientists who produce research outputs and train students as the new generation of palaeoscientists for the country. He stated that this kind of world class educational exhibitions and dynamic outreach programmes are only possible if they include cutting-edge research so that the public, particularly the youth, can be enthused in the wonders of science to possibly pursue scientific careers. The results of this research have given great international kudos to South Africa and can also lead to a sustainable palaetourism industry if done in a responsible way. The National Research and Development Strategy of South Africa identified a number of knowledge fields in which South Africa should aim at achieving international research excellence because of its geographical position and national or cultural heritage. According to the professor, palaeosciences (palaeontology, palaeoanthropology, archaeology and related disciplines) is an area in which
South Africa has a geographical advantage, because of the richness of its heritage. “The strategy is intended to provide a holistic framework for the development of palaeosciences. It therefore enjoins the private and public sectors through the work of different government departments, their agencies and institutions such as universities, science councils, and museums that play a significant role in research in the paelosciences, to work in concert toward realising the goals of the strategy,” he revealed. The proposal by the University of the Witwatersrand, together with its partners the University of Cape Town, Iziko Museums, Albany Museum, Rhodes University, National Museum and Ditsong Museum, was awarded a Centre of Excellence for Palaeoscience. “Several such palaeotourism projects have been set up and provide employment opportunities in rural parts of the country where jobs are scarce. However, without vigorous research and exploration programmes on the palaeo-heritage of South Africa in order to create a storyline, none of these spin-offs will be realised,” he concluded.
EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE , WEDNESDAY 6 NOVEMBER 2013
NEWS
Presented NC at championships ALTOGETHER 38 members of the Northen Cape Provincial Functional Fitness team left to participate in the national championships in Saldanha Bay in the Western Cape. The team competed with police officials from all nine provinces, including officials from the head office in Pretoria. They competed according to weight and age categories in different courses to test their various fitness levels, strength, agility and endurance. Photo: Supplied
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SERAME MABIJA
THABO MPONGWANE
Photos: Boipelo Mere
Stakes high for teams } Boipelo Mere SERAME MABIJA, a staunch Amakhozi fan from Galeshewe, is positive that Orlando Pirates will make it through against Al Ahly on Saturday provided they change their lax tactics. “They beat them before, and it is evident to everyone that they are playing good football. “The cup will come to South Africa through the Buccaneers. They will make us proud,” said Mabija. However, another Amakhozi fan, Thabo Mpongwane, argued that possibility. “I refuse to believe that the Buccaneers will get a second star before Amakhosi get their hands on a star. “Ba a jewa bao, ba ka se kreiye star sa bobedi ke sena sone. Al Ahly yone e setse e nale distar tse seven, ba latelela sa bo-eight ka Buccaneer. “I appreciate the satisfactory games that they have been playing lately, where they even tossed us out of the MTN Cup. How dare they?” asked Mpongwane. According to him, the past two games by Pirates had been powerful, but that did not mean that they would win in the upcoming encounter. Following Saturday’s dangerous stalemate in the Orlando Stadium, Orlando Pirates are expected to up their game if they want their dream of emulating the class of 1995 to become true.
It is not only the players who dream, but the entire nation is awaiting that special second star to be added to the one of 18 years ago. The Saturday game between Pirates and Al Ahly set the tone for the final leg to be played in Al Ahly’s back-yard in Egypt. The stakes are much higher because Al Ahly, seven-time winners of this prestigious final, have experienced players while Pirates are oozing with hard-running youths whose appetite for success seems to be driving their dream. People from Kimberley and those from other parts of the Northern Cape are hoping for nothing less than spectacular. All soccer fanatics are talking about the last 90 minutes.
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.
General Engineering Superintendent (GES): Mechanical/Electrical (Ref. GES (M/E) 115481)
The incumbent will be responsible for maintaining mine infrastructure by means of applying and executing the Company Asset Management Strategy and Maintenance Plan and ensuring plant availability and throughput by means of applying relevant engineering and SHEQ practice and effective Human Resource Management. Key performance areas include, inter alia: • Managing activities, ensuring effective control of manpower and resource utilisation • Conduct root cause failure analysis (RCFA), understand the process and advantages • Assisting management in compiling operational strategy and setting of achievable production targets • Ensuring adherence to the Mine Health and Safety Act, other applicable regulatory requirements, Company/Mine SHEQ standards and procedures to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment in your area of responsibility • Managing contractor performance against service level agreements • Analysing production and asset performance trends against set operational targets • Compiling and monitoring annual labour and maintenance budgets within span of control • Supervision and training of staff within span of control • Maintaining a high standard of teamwork • Performing ad hoc duties as instructed by your supervisor. Requirements: • Qualified artisan (Red Seal) • Grade 12 and a minimum of N6 or equivalent qualification • Sound working knowledge of Maintenance Management System • Minimum of 5 years Previous experience as multi discipline supervisor • Beneficiation plants experience (Jaw and Cone Crushers, Conveyors, Screens, Pumps, Dust Suppression Systems, Rapid Train Loading and Rail Systems) • Contractor management experience • Sound SHEQ systems knowledge • Sound knowledge of Asset/Maintenance Management Systems • Ability to work accurately under pressure • Proven managerial skills and computer literacy • Fluency in both English and Afrikaans • Valid code B/EB driver’s licence. The successful incumbent will be appointed subject to being certified medically fit as per the Mine Health and Safety Act 29/1996 and meeting the requirements of the Company’s Code of Practice – Medical Fitness to work on a Mine. He/she may also be required to undergo a psychometric evaluation. 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: 22 November 2013. 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 115481