Pain lingers still
The situation of a learner allegedly assaulted by two male teachers at the Moemedi Secondary School in Bloemfontein in 2022 appears irreversible.
Mosa Gailele underwent another critical surgery on his left ear at Mediclinic Bloemfontein on Thursday, 30th January.
This surgery followed the first performed at the Busamed Bram Fischer Private Hospital during October 2022. He was in Gr. 8 at the time of the reported assault by the two teachers, who are still working at the school in question, as full-time employees of the Free State’s Department of Education.
It is believed the blows suffered punctured Mosa’s eardrum, resulting in the loss of hearing in his left ear. The two teachers are not facing criminal charges for assault occasioning grievous bodily harm (GBH).
The distressed Josephine Gailele, the boy’s mother, said the latest surgery was a concerted effort by surgeons to try and restore Mosa’s loss of hearing.
“Mosa had serious complications, and was constantly complaining about pain in the affected ear and his difficulty hearing. He has not recovered from the assault. The surgeon who assessed and performed the surgery, indicated that Mosa would require a hearing device,” said Gailele.
Leading to the surgery, she said there was an unpleasant smell and discharge from the boy’s ear.
Gailele laments the severity of the assault, its effects on her personally, and the escalating financial costs that have gone on to affect Mosa.
“The incident is draining me financially, psychologically, and emotionally. Bearing in mind Mosa was admitted for depression last year and recommended for counselling.
“He performed badly at school and he is now repeating Gr. 10 because he failed dismally. Mosa’s assault has made my life unbearable,” said Gailele.
She said she had difficulty in having him enrolled at another school due to the regulation of the Department of Education that Gr. 10 learners may not change schools as it
to Gailele, he is at a different school this year.
At the time of the assault, Mosa was one of three boys accused of inappropriately touching a female learner.
It is claimed the two teachers who responded to the incident, did so aggressively. The teachers, whose identities are known at the school, allegedly locked the boys in a room, where they were subjected to corporal punishment.
However, information gathered from meetings involving parents, the school’s management, and the school governing body (SGB) did not provide evidence of Mosa’s participation in the incident involving the girl.
Home burglar given sentence
The Free State High Court in Bloemfontein has thrown the book at Vuyisile Nomane (36), robber and house burglar, imposing a lengthy imprisonment sentence. The harsh sentence, including a 25 years’ direct imprisonment, is for the brutal assault and attempted murder of an elderly woman of Edenburg, Elode Kingsley (92).
Sgt. Martin Xuma, provincial police spokesperson, said the accused Nomane was sentenced on Friday, 31 January, to life imprisonment for attempted murder, 15 years for robbery with aggravating circumstances, and an additional ten years for the attempted rape of the victim.
“All counts are to run concurrently,” he said.
Xuma said the police investigation revealed the accused went to the victim’s home in Edenburg on 23 April 2023, at about 11:30.
“He forced himself into the house and assaulted the elderly woman, then undressed the victim with the intention to rape her but failed,’ said Xuma.
He said Nomane was arrested after incriminating evidence was found. These include the belongings of the victim.
“He took the victim’s cellphone, watch, house keys, and blankets before fleeing the scene,” said Xuma.
He said the convicted Nomane left the victim for dead.
“When the victim’s friend arrived to pick her up for lunch, she discovered her unconscious in one of the bedrooms. The victim was brought to a hospital in Bloemfontein for medical treatment after she called the police and an ambulance. A case of robbery with aggravating circumstances, attempted murder, and attempted rape was opened for investigation. The accused was arrested within four days around Edenburg as he was trying to sell the victim’s cellphone with the victim’s photo saved as a screen saver,” said Xuma.
He said the sentencing of Nomane was the culmination of an intensive investigation. The matter was assigned to WO Dikeledi Makgisa, who ensured Nomane’s conviction and long term sentencing.
TEBOHO SETENA
Mosa Gailele after another surgery was performed on his shattered left ear since an alleged assault by two male teachers, who still employed at the Moemedi Secondary School in Bloemfontein. PHOTO SUPPLIED
TEBOHO SETENA
Community members of Bloemfontein’s Phomolong and Caleb Motshabi settlements, volunteering as scholar patrollers on the R702, received reflective jackets, whistles, and stop signs to assist in the safe crossing of pedestrians. These items were presented on Friday, 31 January, in partnership by the Bloemspruit Victim Empowerment Programme and the Department for Community Safety, Roads, and Transport. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Approach to road safety intensified
Community members of the Phomolong and Caleb Motshabi settlements in Bloemfontein who have volunteered as scholar patrollers, received necessary aid to intensify road safety.
They received items which include reflective jackets, whistles, and stop signs. These are essential to assist in the safe crossing of pedestrians, which includes a multitude of school-going children.
This was made possible through a partnership between the Department for Community Safety, Roads, and
Transport and the Bloemspruit Victim Empowerment Programme.
Stakeholders presented these essentials as part of a continued drive to prioritising road safety.
These presented on Thursday, 30 January, coinciding with a road safety awareness campaign held in Sector 5 in Phomolong.
The community patroller members are volunteering as scholar patrollers to save the lives of several learners crossing the dangerous R702 road in Bloemfontein.
Several parents who have children crossing this national road daily to attend schools, rely on these volunteers. They ensure the safe
Fatalities involving children worrisome
The number of road fatalities involving school-going children in South Africa are at an alarming high.
This is according to the Road Accident Fund (RAF), referencing statistics that show the five-year average for road fatalities among school-going children, aged five to 19 years, in the country is 1 288.
The state-owned insurance company designed to compensate individuals injured in road accidents, pointed that the high number of school children perishing due to reckless road behaviour is equivalent to about four fatalities per day, translating to more than 100 deaths each month.
According to Collins Letsoalo, chief executive officer (CEO) of the RAF, for the period between 2019 and 2023, 60% of road fatalities involved children who died in car crashes as pedestrians, while 36% were passengers, 2% cyclists, and 2% drivers.
“This is proof that road users are not doing enough to save children’s lives. The RAF, therefore, urges all road users to do an introspection about their attitude towards road safety and take conscious steps to save young lives. South African road users must stay alert.
“Your actions can profoundly impact human lives, particularly those of our future leaders. Let us be a nation that is moved by the
loss of human lives and injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents. After all, 88% of all road crashes are due to human factors,” he said.
According to Letsoalo, mindless acts such as glancing at one’s phone, eating while driving, or crossing over a solid line before it ends accounts for fatal accidents.
He said in a collective effort with other state entities, the RAF supports the Scholar Patrol Programme by providing uniforms and equipment to identified schools.
“The aim of the programme is to increase road safety awareness among school-going children and reduce crashes involving this target group. The Fund works with local traffic departments to provide the necessary training and monitoring of Scholar Patrol volunteers,” said Letsoalo.
He has urged guardians to educate their children on the correct way of using the country’s roads, and to be on the lookout for reckless drivers.
“The Fund will continue educating, creating awareness, and advocating for the responsible and safe use of our roads throughout the year. The Fund’s road safety initiatives seek to empower recipients with marketing strategies that range from compassionate, educational, to shocking campaigns that hopefully hit the mark.”
crossing of learners from Phomolong and Caleb Motshabi who wake up early and walk for hours to attend school in established residential areas such as Phase 3, Turflaagte, and Rocklands.
Capt. Loraine Earle, spokesperson for the Free State police, said road safety remains a critical concern, especially in highly populated areas such as Bloemspruit in Bloemfontein, where heavy traffic and inadequate pedestrian infrastructure put lives at risk. She said the presentation of the items aims at addressing challenges identified.
The campaign focused on assisting
school learners who cross the R702 highway daily, a high-risk area between Phomolong and Caleb Motshabi (Dinaweng). “Numerous accidents have been reported,” said Earle.
The items will increase patrollers’ visibility, which will ensure children safely cross the highway while also warning motorists to slow down and drive cautiously in the area. Earle said the donation was in recognition of the importance of community participation, and committed parents and community members in road safety.
“A short workshop was conducted by the different stakeholders for the
community and parents. These efforts aim to create a sustainable safety initiative led by the local community. The success of this initiative highlights the urgent need for continued road safety education and infrastructure improvements in high-risk areas. Motorists are urged to remain vigilant, obey speed limits, and respect pedestrian crossings, while parents and community members are encouraged to remain actively involved in ensuring the safety of children,” said Earle. Community members have volunteered since 2021. Patrollers ensuring road safety on the R702, do so between 06:45 and 07:45.
Mangaung audit results continue to decline
LIENTJIE MENTZ
The financial problems of the Mangaung Metro and the institute’s inability to fulfil its duties, are growing year on year despite senior officials being appointed in key positions.
Odwa Dudu, head of the AuditorGeneral’s (AG) office in Bloemfontein, presented another bleak picture on the financial situation of the metro, including Centlec, for the end of the financial year that ended on 30 June 2024.
In the report presented at a council meeting on Friday, 31 January, Beukes Boshoff of the AG’s office mentioned a wide array of concerns, the eroding of funds, and future obligations.
One of the biggest concerns is the R297 million that was withheld by the National Treasury in conditional grants from the metro due to the slow implementation of projects.
Another huge concern is that 45% of next year’s budget that will pay for expenditure incurred in previous years.
Only 28% of the activities contained in the Financial Recovery Plan for the Mangaung Metro were fully implemented during the financial year in question.
Unauthorised expenditure has skyrocketed to R1,34 billion, irregular spending stands at R277 million, and fruitless and wasteful expenditure totals to R122,5 million.
“These funds should have been allocated to critical services but have instead been squandered through
It is business as usual for informal traders and businesses who haphazardly dispose of their garbage in the Bloemfontein CBD’s with the Mangaung Metro Municipality’s audit results worsening, rendering basic services and enforcing by-laws.
corruption and incompetence, leaving residents and businesses paying for services they are not receiving,” says Dirk Kotzé, DA Councillor about the report. He said this mismanagement results in widespread frustration and discontent amongst citizens.
“Water and sanitation projects are perpetually delayed or abandoned, roads are riddled with potholes and prone to flooding and waste collection services are failing again since Tuesday, 28 January,” said Kotzé.
Dr Elizabeth Snyman-Van Deventer commented in her reply to the AG report that it is concerning that only 2% of the metro’s expenditure was for repairs and maintenance of
critical service delivery.
Kotzé said the DA vows to take decisive action to rescue Mangaung from financial mismanagement and poor service delivery.
“The report paints a damning picture of a municipality in crisis. The report reveals staggering financial mismanagement, including material misstatements, procurement irregularities, and widespread noncompliance with financial regulations.”
Kotzé said the DA is appalled by the ANC-led administration’s lack of accountability.
“Investigations into fraudulent overtime payments, irregular tenders, and unauthorised contract payments have yielded nothing but inaction.”
TEBOHO SETENA
PHOTO: TEBOHO SETENA
More false papers surface
TEBOHO SETENA
The Free State Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team’s probing into bogus qualifications in the spheres of the provincial government has yielded the arrest of an employee in the Mangaung Metro Municipality in Bloemfontein.
The latest suspect, Arron Gaotingwe Raphutse (49), was expected to reappear in the Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 4 February.
Raphutse, who was employed as a librarian, is facing charges of fraud, theft and uttering following his arrest by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team in Bloemfontein.
Other ongoing cases of fake qualifications are against Phakisa Patrick Mokoena (40) and Mmulutsi Winston Mokwai (42).
The police nabbed the men on separate dates after probing into the credibility of their qualifications.
Mokoena, former municipal manager of the Dihlabeng Local Municipality in Bethlehem, is facing charges of fraud, theft and money laundering while Mokwai is charged with fraud.
The discovery of Raphutse’s use of fraudulent qualifications came more than 15 years into his employment at the Mangaung Metro.
WO Fikiswa Matoti, provincial spokesperson for the Hawks, said information was received during 2007, alleging Raphutse held fake qualifications. She alleges he intentionally submitted false information in his application and curriculum vitae (CV) about his qualifications when he applied for the position at the Community and Social Development sub-directorate of
the metro.
“He applied for the advertised post and purported he had the relevant qualifications. The municipality appointed him with the belief that he had the relevant qualifications. A thorough probe into the matter established that Raphutse does not have the relevant qualifications as claimed,” said Matoti.
Arising from the alleged fraudulent qualifications, she said the municipality was prejudiced and suffered a total loss of R1 329 935,08.
Matoti said in the event a warrant of arrest was secured in the Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 24 January. Raphutse handed himself over to the Hawks. He was granted bail of R2 000, with the condition to reappear in court
Mokwai was permanently employed in 2012 as the deputy director at the Department of Health in Bloemfontein. The department has since confirmed he resigned with immediate effect – apparently, upon failing to support the legitimacy of his qualifications, which include a diploma in electrical engineering and degree certificates. According to the Hawks, Mokwai had also presented a fraudulent temporary driving licence when he was appointed by the department in 2012. He is out on bail set at R2 000.
Despite Mokoena not having a matric certificate and tertiary qualifications relevant for the powerful position, the Dihlabeng Municipality in Bethlehem appointed him as the municipal manager for February and April 2022. He was appointed on a three-month contract, earning R53 000 per month.
Mokoena is currently out on bail of R10 000, with the condition to appear in court.
Officers accused of indulging
Three police officers attached to the Free State’s Visible Policing in Verkykerskop, who allegedly went on a spending spree on alcohol with a stolen bank card, are in court facing criminal charges.
This followed their arrest after purchasing alcohol with a stolen bank card of a civilian. The trio, identified as Const. Tumelo Mokone (36) and Sgts Tieho Tieho (42) and Lucky Kubheka (43), reappeared in the Harrismith Magistrates’ Court on 3 February to apply for bail.
Their first appearance in court on 30 January. They were subsequently remanded in custody after their first appearance.
Capt. Loraine Earle, spokesperson for the Free State police, said the officers face several criminal charges of theft and corruption. She said they appeared in court hours after their arrest by the provincial AntiCorruption unit.
Earle said the trio were arrested in Harrismith based on evidence of an intensive investigation regarding an incident entailing the alleged spending spree of purchasing alcohol using a civilian’s bank card in December 2023.
“On 21 December 2023, the complainant withdrew cash at an ATM in Harrismith but forgot to retrieve his bank card.
“A police official retrieved the card and, along with his two colleagues, was later captured on video footage purchasing liquor at three different liquor stores using the stolen bank card by tapping it for payments.
“After a criminal docket was registered, the officers approached the complainant, attempting to bribe him with R1 000 to drop the case. The
We are deeply disappointed by the actions of these officers, who have breached the very oath they took to serve and protect
- Lt Gen. Baile Motswenyane
complainant refused and proceeded with legal action,” said Earle. Probing by the police has resulted in their arrest and criminal charges instituted. The value of the alcohol is not disclosed since the officers had bought it at different outlets.
Lt Gen. Baile Motswenyane, Free State police commissioner, has described the action by Mokone, Tieho, and Kubheka as a betrayal, further warning against criminality within the police force.
“Corruption within the police service will not be tolerated under any circumstances. We are deeply disappointed by the actions of these officers, who have breached the very oath they took to serve and protect.
“Corruption and criminality within our ranks will be rooted out and we will ensure that those who tarnish the reputation of the police face the full might of the law. We remain committed to upholding integrity and professionalism in policing,” said Motswenyane.
) The trio, Mokone, Tieho and Kubheka, add to the growing list of police officers in the Free State arrested for breaking the law.
In February, a 53-year-old warrant officer (WO) stationed at the Heidedal Police Station in Bloemfontein was arrested by the Anti-Corruption unit
for allegedly soliciting a bribe. He was reportedly caught redhanded in possession of the bribery money. The police reported the member approached a suspected drug dealer, demanding money in order to make a case against a drug trafficker disappear.
It is purported the suspected drug dealer had ties with the other drug dealer who was detained at the Heidedal Police Station on drugrelated charge.
The the Anti-Corruption unit arrested the officer acting on information receive.
In April, a sergeant at the Parkweg Police Station in Bloemfontein was arrested for allegedly soliciting payments from a client who applied to have his criminal record expunged.
The police reported the client made the standard payments of R80 and R170, for which he received receipts. However, the offer allegedly demanded two separate payments of R300, which were not recorded in the police’s system, raising suspicion that the officer’s conduct was illegal.
The officer’s arrest came after the victim had questioned the additional payments at the Parkweg Police Station upon checking on the progress of his application.
Lastly, a 41-year-old police sergeant attached to the provincial Anti-Gang unit is charged with dealing in drugs.
The Hawks pounced on the officer and his female accomplice (32) in Hennenman upon finding 14 tablets of Mandrax. The elite crime fighting unit was conducting a search on 11 May 2023 at the officer’s residency when the discovered the drug. The pair were arrested followed the completion of the forensic investigation into their suspected involvement in drug dealing.
Arron Gaotingwe Raphutse PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Phakisa Patrick Mokoena, former municipal manager.
Mmulutsi Winston Mokwai, former deputy director.
TEBOHO SETENA
From the left are Lt Gen. Baile Motswenyane, Free State police commissioner, Maj. Gen. Solly Lesia, deputy police commissioner, and Maj. Gen. Apaphia Modise. PHOTO: TEBOHO SETENA
A path less traveled
With a multitude of vocational choices available for matriculants and schoolleavers, the mining industry offers a variety of rewarding career paths. These range from practicing as a geologists or environmental scientists to becoming a logistics manager or heavy machinery operator.
This industry is a great place for schoolleavers to learn new skills and gain valuable work experience to play a vital role in the global economy and society.
Encouraging youths to work towards a brighter tomorrow
Learner bests her peers
An innovative research project by Joanna (Jana) Swanepoel (14) of the Hoër Meisieskool Oranje in Bloemfontein has earned her a prestigious fourth prize at this year’s Taiwan International Science Fair (TISF).
This recognition was for the presentation of her cutting-edge research project titled, “Plantastic Pods: The Grow Stick Rooting Revolution for Seeds and Cuttings.”
The event was held from 18 to 25 January at the National Taiwan Science Education Center in Taipei.
Joanna was awarded the top prize for her research, which involves demonstrably enhancing plant growth, compared to traditional propagation methods. Plantastic Pods have proven to be a workable alternative to conventional techniques, with significant applications in both agriculture and horticulture.
Joanna was the only Free State learner, and one of two South Africans, at the global science competition that attracted scientists from 27 countries. The other young South African scientist was
Joanna (Jana) Swanepoel
Aradhya Kaushik (15), of the Bryanston High School in Johannesburg.
Swanepoel expressed pride in receiving recognition for her work at such a prestigious science fair, emphasising the value of the experience over the prizes.
“I am grateful to have had the opportunity to learn so much
from other young people who share the same interests as me.
Every day was an adventure, and joining more than 600 young scientists from 27 countries around the world was overwhelming, but exciting,” said Joanna.
She won a gold medal at last year’s Eskom Expo, in the junior Agricultural Sciences category.
Reward awaits
The Metpac-SA Trash 4 Treats initiative, a nationwide campaign teaching primary school learners in disadvantaged communities the value of recycling, is calling on schools to participate in the drive to collect recyclable waste items. Learners who collect cans and tins are rewarded with treats, while their schools compete for their share of the R30 000 prize money to fund crucial upgrades. The initiative is offering tangible benefits that go beyond environmental awareness.
This project is engaging and impactful – an initiative that proves that partnerships can drive meaningful change for learners, schools and the environment. To ensure no school misses out, communities are urged to nominate disadvantaged schools in need that could benefit from this transformative initiative. Schools themselves can also apply to participate. Communities and schools can submit their nominations or apply before Friday, 7 February, by sending an email to Monique Muller, project manager, at monique.muller@gtp.org.za.
Schools to enter computer olympiad
The Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa (IITPSA) urges South African schools to register their learners to participate in the 2025 Computer Olympiad Talent Search competition. This is a free, fun challenge helping schools identify and nurture their Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (Stem) skills.
Schools can register until 16 February, with the competition taking place from 17 to 28 February. Previous Talent Search papers are available online and for offline use. To help learners prepare, schools can register to participate in the 2025 Talent Search at olympiad.org.za/talent-search/register/.
Talent Search is part of the South African Computer Olympiads, a key initiative of the IITPSA. The initiative is the South African version of the international Bebras Computing Challenge, which attracts more than two million participants from more than 50 countries each year.
Talent Search includes online or pen and paper challenges for learners of all ages, in elementary, junior, intermediate, senior and elite levels, helping schools identify a Stem and Information and Communication
Technology (ICT) aptitude in learners from Gr. 4 to Gr. 12. It entails problems relating to abstraction, decomposition, optimisation, manipulation of data, sorting, searching, identifying patterns, and many other algorithms used in Maths, Science, Information Technology (IT), Computer Applications Technology (CAT), the humanities and even sport. The top 50% of participants countrywide receive gold, silver and bronze certificates.
Pearl Pasi, president of IITPSA, said the initiative enables young learners to sharpen their thinking and problem-solving skills.
Pasi notes that while up to 20 000 learners from over 170 schools typically participate in the Talent Search, few of them are from rural schools.
“We want to bridge the digital divide and nurture young talent from across the country, which is why the pen and paper version of the challenge is available for schools with limited technology or internet connectivity,” she says.
“We urge more schools – particularly rural schools – to take part in the challenge to get their learners started on a trajectory that may lead to careers in the digital and Stem worlds in future.”
As mining companies offer a variety of training and development assistance programmes to those in their employ, schoolleavers can start their careers with a solid foundation and build on their skills over time.
Contrary to popular belief, the mining industry is not solely limited to engineering roles and manual labour.
For example, geologists and geoscientists play a critical role in identifying and exploring mineral resources. They use their expertise to assess the viability of mining projects and ensure sustainable practices. Environmental scientists are responsible for protecting the environment and mitigating the impact of mining operations, working to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and developing sustainable mining practices.
Mining engineers oversee the design, planning and implementation of mining operations, ensuring safety, efficiency and profitability.
Other engineering disciplines involved in mining include mechanical, electrical and civil engineering.
The mining industry also requires skilled professionals in finance and accounting to manage budgets, financial reporting and risk assessment, while human resources (HR) professionals play a vital role in recruiting, training and managing employees in the industry. They ensure compliance with labour laws and promote a positive work environment.
Furthermore, the mining industry is increasingly embracing technology, creating opportunities for skilled professionals in fields such as data analytics, automation and robotics.
The mining industry plays a significant role in the global economy. It provides numerous employment opportunities and contributes substantially to our country’s gross domestic product (GDP). With the industry’s continuous evolution and the increasing demand for minerals and metals, there is a growing need for skilled professionals.
Within the mining industry, there are programmes designed specifically for students who may not have the opportunity to attend university directly after high school, aiming to provide a pathway into the industry for individuals seeking a career without having to take the traditional university route. Training programmes have been developed to facilitate a comprehensive career path within the industry, covering both surface and underground operations, outlining the various roles and qualifications available, helping individuals understand their starting points and potential career progression.
As individuals gain experience and skills, they can progress to more specialised positions. One example of advancement involves becoming a blasting attendant, blasting assistant and eventually a blaster. With continued development, individuals can reach supervisory roles like that of blasting foreman or drill bit foreman.
The highest qualification, the Further Education and Training (FET) certificate in Mining Operations, prepares individuals for foreman or supervisory positions.
To make mining careers more appealing to school leavers, we must showcase the diverse roles beyond physical labour, highlighting the industry’s contributions and its commitment to sustainability.
) Jacques Farmer is the managing director at Prisma Training Solutions.
Jacques Farmer
Dibolelo Mance, Free State MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure (left), brought a smile to a group of impoverished learners at the Batho Primary School, donating brand new shoes. With her are Pule Mokotjo (headmaster) and Sabie Musarurgwa (Department of Education). Donated on Wednesday, 29 January, the much-needed shoes, as well as sanitary products and painting material, serve to support the back-to-school campaign. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Academics team up to advance healthcare
A collaboration between the Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State, and the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) in Ga-Rankuwa, Gauteng, is envisaged to greatly benefit local communities.
The two institutions are exploring joint effort on the medical additive manufacturing training programme.
Laying the foundation
On 28 January, Prof. Wilfrid Pilloy of the School of Nuclear Medicine at the SMU visited the Centre for Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing (CRPM) at the CUT’s campus in Bloemfontein.
The visit laid the foundation for the beginning of a collaboration to advance the field of medical additive manufacturing and its applications in healthcare and beyond.
Subsequently, the two institutes announced a comprehensive medical additive manufacturing training programme is underway.
The collaboration on several projects aims at contributing to overall community development, and the pursuit of achieving sustainable development goals.
The programme itself
In terms of the planned collaboration, Dr Gerrie Booysen, director of the CRPM, and Pilloy will offer a mix of lectures, handson activities and case studies combining both theoretical and practical learning.
The training sessions will be
conducted across multiple platforms, including sessions at both the SMU and the CRPM, ensuring a broader reach and fostering a collaborative environment.
Participants will further receive
practical experience using cuttingedge technologies, including 3D printers and handheld scanning devices, which are pivotal in the evolving landscape of medical technology.
Booysen has commented on the
initiative.
“Access to a desktop 3D printer and handheld scanner through the CUT’s Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology (Febit) and its Mechanical Engineering
department to the programme’s resources, will enable a hands-on experience, enhancing participants’ learning outcomes.”
He envisages the initiative to significantly impact the healthcare community and contribute to the future of medical technology.
“Our collaboration will be a catalyst for innovation, training, and community development in the years to come.”
Inspiring change
In support of this groundbreaking initiative, Prof. Wendy Setlalentoa, acting vice-chancellor for the Research, Innovation and Engagement division at the CUT, expressed confidence on the prospects of its success.
“This collaboration is exciting for our institution and the broader community. It exemplifies our commitment to advancing academic research and making tangible improvements in people’s lives,” she said.
“By equipping individuals with the skills to use transformative technologies, we are empowering them to make a real difference in the healthcare sector and beyond.”
Setlalentoa highlighted that the programme and its envisioned success was expected to further inspire cross-departmental collaborations.
She noted that the training could also take place at the SMU, opening the doors for participation from other departments and universities as well, all working towards a shared vision.
With Prof. Wilfrid Pilloy (middle) of the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) are from the left Dr Gerrie Booysen (director of the Centre for Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing), Prof. Wendy Setlalentoa (acting vice-chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement), Prof. Muthoni Masinde (dean of the Faculty of Engineering) and Dr Jacques Combrinck (head of Mechanical Engineering), all of the Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Playing their hearts out
Junior Masters FC campaigns in the IBL Development League U15 category of the Bloemfontein Local Football Association under the auspices of Safa Mangaung Metro.
The Junior Masters FC’s Thami Sohe (blue) dribbles past opponent Ntando Mlangeni, of the Dikoena Stars FC, during the IBL Development League U15 fixture played on Saturday, 1 February, at the Mangaung Build It sports field in Bloemfontein. The two teams are in stream A of the competition.
Tournament ready to rock sports lovers
TEBOHO SETENA
Ahead of the start of the 2025 FNB Varsity Cup season, the competition sponsor has unveiled the newest mascot: Enzokuhle.
With his striking pink mane, fearless energy, and undeniable rock star attitude, Enzo is the official mascot for both the Varsity Cup and Varsity Shield tournament.
Born from the spirit of passion and perseverance, the name Enzokuhle means “to do great things” in the isiXhosa language and embodies everything the competition stands for. This was unveiled on Monday, 3 February, in time for the start of this year’s tournament.
The competition is set to commence on Monday, 17 February, featuring the topseeded eight and eight lowerranked teams representing the different universities in South Africa.
The men’s rugby side of the University of the Free State (UFS), the Shimlas, will begin their ambitious quest to defend their Varsity Cup title.
The local lads won the coveted trophy after beating the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Ikeys 45 – 42 in a final played in the packed-to-capacity Shimla Park Stadium in Bloemfontein on 22 April last year.
The Shimlas will start with a
The Shimlas’ Jandre Nel (blue) running with the ball during last year’s match against the Stellenbosch University.
tough encounter against their arch-rival, the Stellenbosch University’s Maties. The reigning champions have won the title two times thus far, with the first time being in 2015.
The Ixias of the Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State, will start their campaign with an away game against the University of Johannesburg (UJ) on 17 February.
Broadening the playing field
A call for the South African Football Association (Safa) in the Free State to bring more women to the forefront in the playing of football and in strategic roles that include coaching and technical positions, has been renewed.
The call for the federation to empower women to take in key positions was echoed at the awarding of coaches during a certificate ceremony held at the Mangaung Indoor Sport Centre in Bloemfontein on Saturday, 18 January.
While strides have been made and the number of women in a variety of roles pertaining the sport continues to increase, the number is significantly low when compared to coaching and technical positions.
Struben Mathumbu, director of Sport and Talent Development at the Free State’s Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, called on the federation to broaden the playing field and increase the number of women across all levels, saying it will reflect the true advancement of the sport in South Africa. He added that it was key in raising professional women’s football in the country.
Formed in 2019, the Hollywoodbets Super League is South Africa’s premier women’s football league and has 16 clubs.
Mathumbu’s call was prompted by the fact that five women were among the scores of men who successfully completed coaching programmes conducted last year.
Recipients completed a Safa D-License and Coaching Football to Beginners Coaches programme conducted with the South African Football Coaches Association (Safca). Mathumbu stressed that women have proved themselves capable, and increasing the number was critical to tie with Project 300 – an ambitious plan the minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, announced in August last year. The project aims at getting 300 athletes to represent the country at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Desiree Ellis, Banyana Banyana coach, was listed as the highest (seventh) of any African on the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) rankings for best national coaches for women.
PHOTOS: TEBOHO SETENA
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
TEBOHO SETENA
Women who received their D-License Coaching certificate at the South African Football Association Mangaung Metro’s certificate event are, from the left, Kedilatile Senago-Matong (coach), Keletso Shai, Mamsy Malaku (instructor), Valente Heila Abrahams (coach), Sarah Booysen (coach), and Mosa Dladla (provincial executive officer of Safa). PHOTO: SUPPLIED
GENERAL NOTICES
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1210
Mr Johannes Willem
Spies or family, please contact Esmari du Plessis on 082 202 4306 with regards to the adoption of a boy child born 2013-05-02.
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Bazaruto NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY APPLICATION IN TERMS OF SECTION 27 READ WITH SECTION 31 FOR REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE FREE STATE GAMBLING, LIQUOR AND TOURISM ACT NO 6 OF 2010 AS AMENDED
Notice is hereby given that KABELO TSUBANE intends to lodge an application on 7 February 2025 particulars of which appear hereunder 1. Local Municipality: Mangaung; 2. Full names and surname/Identity number/Residential and postal address: KABELO TSUBANE, ID-no 840707 6019 08 1, 5774 Mapetsana, Thaba Nchu; 3. Type of Registration applied: Tavern; 4. Type of product to be sold/manufactured: All kinds of product; 5. Name under which the business is to be conducted and full business addres of premises: BAZARUTO, 6223 Mokwena, Thaba Nchu, 9780; and Name of learning institution and distance, name of place of worship and distance and name of similar registered premises: N/A. Any person may, within 21 days from 7 February 2025 (date of publication in Provincial Gazette) lodge in terms of section 33 of the Free State Gambling and Liquor Act, 2010 an objection in writing to the Free State Liquor Authority (address set out hereunder). The objection must clearly indicate the full names, identity number, residential address, postal address and telephone number if any and where applicable, its registration number and address of its office, of the objector The objection must also identify the application to which it relates. The application may be inspected at the office of the Authority during their office hours. The address of the revelant Office of the Liquor Authority is: 85 Henry Street, Westdene, Bloemfontein, 9301. Date: 06/01/2025. Place: Bloemfontein.
La Rona Bottle Store NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY IN TERMS OF SECTION 27 READ WITH SECTION 31 FOR REGISTRATION FREE STATE GAMBLING AND LIQUOR ACT, 2010
Mindi's Liquor Store NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY APPLICATION IN TERMS OF SECTION 27 READ WITH SECTION 31 FOR REGISTRATION
FREE STATE GAMLING, LIQUOR AND TOURISM ACT NO 6 OF 2010 AS AMENDED
L OST DOCUMENTS 4040
ESTATE NOTICES
ESTATES: CREDITORS & DEBTORS 4201
M.E. Vaaltuin NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN DECEASED ESTATES
S.B. JAFTA
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS IN DECEASED ESTATE
4205
S.N. NAKANYANE KENNISGEWING
G1752/1986
LOST OR DESTROYED DEED
Notice is hereby given that MAMELLO YOLANDA MOTLHANKAMOTHO intends to lodge an application on 07 FEBRUARY 2025 particulars of which appear hereunder 1. Municipality: Mangaung Metro Municipality; 2. Full names, street and postal address of applicant and identity no or registration no.: Mamello Yolanda Motlhankamotho, ID-no 980217 0266 08 4, 14351, Phase 6, Bloemfontein, 9301; 3. Kind of registration applied for: Liquor store; 4. Kind of product to be sold/manufactured: All kinds of liquor; 5. Name under which business is to be conducted and full address of premises: LA RONA BOTTLE STORE, Erf 14351, Phase 6, Bloemfontein, 9301; and 6. Name of, nature of and distance to institutions of learning, similar registered premises and places of worship: None. Any person may, within 21 days from 07 FEBRUARY 2025 (date of publication in Provincial Gazette) lodge in terms of section 33 of the Free State Gambling and Liquor Act, 2010 an objection in writing to the Free State Liquor Authority (address set out hereunder). The objection must clearly indicate the full name, identity number, residential address, postal address and telephone number, if any, and where applicable, its registration number and address of its office, of the objector The objection must also identify the application to which it relates. The application may be inspected at the offices of the Authority during their office hours. The address of the relevant Office of the Liquor Authority is: 111 Zastron Street, Westdene, Bloemfontein. Place: Bloemfontein.
Notice is hereby given that MMENE MANDILAKHE intends to lodge an application on 7 February 2025, particulars of which appear hereunder 1. Local Municipality: Mangaung Metro Municipality; 2. Full Names and Surname/Company Name/Identity Number/Company Registration number and Residential/Postal Address: MANDILAKHE MMENE, ID-no 990820 5894 08 7, 401 G Section, Botshabelo, 9781; 3. Type of Registration applied for: Liquor Store; 4. Type of product to be sold/manufacture: All kinds of liquor; 5. Name under which the business is to be conducted and full address of premises: MINDI'S LIQUOR STORE; 401 G Section, Botshabelo, 9781; and 6. Name of learning institution and distance/name of place of worship and distance and name of similar registered premises: N/A.
Any person may within 21 days from 7 February 2025 (date of publication in Provincial Gazette) lodge in terms of section 33 of the Free State Gambling and Liquor Act objection in writing to the Free State Liquor Authority (address set out hereunder). The objection must clearly indicate the full names, identity number, residential address and telephone number if any, and where applicable, its registration number and address of its office, of the objector The objection must also identify the application it relates. The application may be inspected at the offices of the Authority during their office hours. The address of the relevant Office of the Liquor Authority is: 85 Henry Street, Westdene, Bloemfontein, 9301.
Date: 14 January 2025. Place: Botshabelo
Ndade's Bottle Store
Notice is hereby given in terms of Regulation 68 of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intention to apply for the issue of a certified copy of Deed of Grant G1752/1986 issued by the Department of Development, to KHOTSO ERIC MEI In respect of ERF 701 BOTSHABELO, SECTION H, DISTRICT OF THABA NCHU, PROVINCE FREE STATE MEASURING 345 (THREE HUNDRED AND FORTY FIVE) SQUARE METERS which has been lost or destroyed.
All interested persons having objection to the issue of such copy are hereby required to lodge the same in writing with the Registrar of Deeds at Bloemfontein within two weeks from the date of the publication of this notice. SIGNED at BLOEMFONTEIN on this day 3rd of FEBRUARY 2025. CONVEYANCER
JOHAN GERARDUS VAN ES –LPCM 57577BOCK and VAN ES ATTORNEYS 49 KELLNER STREET WESTDENE BLOEMFONTEIN Email: admin@bockes.co.za
All persons having claims against the under-mentioned estate must lodge it with the Executor concerned within 30 days(or as indicated) from date of publication hereof Late estate HMALIMETHA EMILY VAALTUIN, ID-no 381102 0293 087 date of birth 1938-11-02, date of death 2001-02-14, last address: 196 Tom Swartz Street, Heidedal Bloemfontein. Province of the Master's Office Free State and Master's Office Bloemfontein. Estate-no.432/2001
SPANGENBERG ZIETSMAN & BLOEM, FAL Manor, Sewendestraat 6, Arboretum, Bloemfontein Tel. 051 409 5001. Email: yvonne@fal.co.za
N.S. KUMALO KENNISGEWING AAN KREDITEURE EN DEBITEURE IN BESTORWE BOEDELS
IN DIE BOEDEL VAN WYLE: NKOSANA SAMUEL KUMALO BOEDELNOMMER: 1205/2024, MEESTERSKANTOOR: BLOEMFONTEIN
GEBOORTEDATUM: 1935-1211 IDENTITEITSNOMMER: 351211 5228 08 3, LAASTE ADRES: STANDPLAAS 2761
RATLOU THAB’NCHU DATUM VAN DOOD: 2023-0126, Krediteure en Debiteure in die bogemelde boedel word hiermee versoek om hulle vorderings in te lewer en hulle skulde te betaal ten kantore van die ondergetekende binne ‘n tydperk van 30 (DERTIG) DAE.
PHILIP KÜHN PROKUREURS
IN THE ESTATE OF THE LATE: SANDILE BENJAMIN JAFTA IDENTITY NUMBER: 630317 5414 087, Date of death: 28 JUNE 2024 And surviving spouse MATHABO TERTIA JAFTA IDENTITY NUMBER: 601113 0676 084, ADRESS: 15365 MOSIMANE STREET PHASE TWO BLOEMFONTEIN 9323 ESTATE NUMBER: 005929/2024, Creditors and debtors in the abovementioned estate are requested to lodge their claims or pay their debts to the Executor concerned within 30 (thirty) days as from THURSDAY the 06th of FEBEUARY 2025.
WERNER VERMAAK ATTORNEYS No 1 PRESIDENT STEYN STREET WESTDENE BLOEMFONTEIN PO BOX 26817 LANGENHOVENPARK 9330 TEL: 051 492 1150 EMAIL: werver@mweb.co.za
S.S. GATRI
In the estate of the late SAMUEL SCHLEBUSH GATRI Identity number : 570123 5134 085, Born : 23 JANUARY 1957, Died: 12 MAY 2024 of: (address) 19 JIMMY KENNEDY STREET, HEIDEDAL, BLOEMFONTEIN and surviving spouse (only if married in community of property): MATSELANE ELISA GATRI Identity number : 580717 0810 082, Born : 17 JULY 1958 Estate number: 7524/2024 Master's Office: BLOEMFONTEIN, Debtors and Creditors in the above estate are hereby required to lodge their claims with and pay their debts to the undersigned within thirty (30) days from date of publication hereof For a period of thirty days (30) days from 07 FEBRUARY 2025
LIKWIDASIE- EN DISTRIBUSIEREKENING IN BESTORWE BOEDEL WAT TER INSAE Lê INGEVOLGE DIE BEPALINGS VAN ARTIKEL 35(5) VAN DIE BOEDELWET, WET 66 VAN 1965. Die Eerste en Finale Likwidasie- en Distribusierekening in die bogenoemde boedel sal ter insae lê by die Landdroskantoor te BLOEMFONTEIN provinsie VRYSTAAT gedurende ‘n tydperk van 21 (EEN EN TWINTIG) dae vanaf 7 FEBRUARIE 2025 vir alle persone wat daarby belang het. Indien binne die genoemde tydperk geen beswaar daarteen by die betrokke Meesterskantoor ingedien word nie, gaan die Eksekuteurs oor tot die uitbetaling ingevolge die gemelde Likwidasie- en Distribusierekening REGISTRASIENOMMER VAN BOEDEL: 4371/2022, SHEILA NTHAKODI NAKANYANE IDENTITEITSNOMMER: 600314 0545 086 LAASTE WOONADRES: CHIEF MOROKA SINGEL 3038 ROCKLANDS BLOEMFONTEIN PROVINSIE VRYSTAAT GETEKEN te BLOEMFONTEIN op hierdie 22ste dag van JANUARIE 2025. DIE EKSEKUTEUR: R AHRENS VAN WYK & PRELLER ING PRES PAUL KRUGERRYLAAN 67 UNIVERSITAS BLOEMFONTEIN 9301
PLETTENBERGSTRAAT 7 DAN PIENAAR BLOEMFONTEIN 9301
Name and address of executor or agent : UYLETA CLAUDINE NEL-MARAIS, EXECUTOR, c/o LOVIUS BLOCK INC, 31 FIRST AVENUE, WESTDENE, BLOEMFONTEIN, 9301 Tel nr : 051 4303874
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY IN TERMS OF SECTION 27 READ WITH SECTION 31 FOR REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE Free State Gambling, Liquor and Tourism Act No 6 of 2010 as amended
Notice is hereby given that MATSHEPE NKOANE PHENIAS intends to lodge an application on 07 February particulars of wich appear hereunder 1. Local Municipality: Mangaung; 2. Full names and surname/Identity Number and residential/postal address: Matshepe Nkoane Phenias, IDno 600914 5861 08 9, 11146 Machuisa Street, Bloemanda, Bloemfontein, 9323; 3. Type of Registration applied for: Bottle Store; and Type of product to be sold/manufactured: Liquor
Any person may, within 21 days from 07 February 2025 (date of publication in Provincial Gazette) lodge in terms of section 33 of the Free State Gambling and Liquor Act, 2010 an objection in writing to the Free State Liquor Authority (address set out hereunder).
The objection must clearly indicate the full names, identity number, residential address, postal address and telephone number if any and where applicable, its registration number and address of its office, of the objector The objection must also identify the application which it relates. The application may be inspected at the offices of the Authority during their office hours. The address of the relevant Office of the Liquor Authority is: 85 Henry Street, Westdene, Bloemfontein, 9301. Place: Bloemfontein.
Date: 22 November 2024.
TheMangaungMetropolitanMunicipalityherebynotifiesforgeneralinformationin termsoftheprovisionsofSectionActNo.16of2013oftheMangaungMetropolitan Municipality Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act, that the following applicationhasbeenreceivedfromROODT*ArchitectsandUrbanPlanners: Erf2330,1FAUREAVENUE,WILLOWS,Bloemfontein
Thepublicationservesasnoticetothepublicfortheapplicationfortheremovalof restrictive condition (2) from the Title Deed of Erf 2330, and rezoning of Erf 2330 (from“residential1”to“generalresidential1a”)Willows,Bloemfontein.
The application, relevant plans, documents, and information will be available for inspectionduringofficehours(8:30–15:00)attheofficeoftheTownandRegional Planning,subdirectorateoftheMangaungMetropolitanMunicipality,Room1011, 10th floor, Bram Fischer Building, Corner Nelson Mandela Drive and Markgraaff Street,Bloemfonteinforaperiodof30daysfromthedateofpublicationhereof,orby 3March2025.Anypersonwhowishestolodgeanobjectiontotheapprovalofthe application, is hereby invited to lodge and substantiate their objection in writing to the office of the Town and Regional Planning sub directorate, Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, PO Box 3704, Bloemfontein, 9300 or sent to george.masaubi@mangaung.co.za.
Objection(s)statingcomprehensivereasonsmustreachthisofficewithinaperiodof 30 days from the date of publication hereof. The objection must stipulate the full particularsoftheobjector(s)(postaladdress,streetaddress,telephonenumber(s) ande-mailaddress).Anypersonwhoisunabletowritemay,duringofficehours,visit the offices of the Town and Regional Planning Sub-directorate, Bram Fischer Building,Room1011onthe10thfloor,whereanofficialofthisofficewillassistthose by transcribing their objections. Any person who submitted an objection will be notified,inwriting,ifahearingwillbeheldinrespectoftheapplication.
Sport Sport
Trials aim to harvest new breed of netball talent yet to be discovered
Next generation wanted
SETENA
Under the tutelage of respected mentor Burta de Kock, the Kovsie Netball women’s team is searching for new talent.
The five-time Varsity Netball champions are conducting trials to
select potential future stars.
Trials are open for female students registered to study at the University of the Free State (UFS) for the academic year of 2025. Those interested to join the university’s team have until the closing of Friday, 14 February, to register for trials.
Those selected will be featured in matches from which the Kovsie Netball women’s technical team will select the cream of the crop to play for the university in the various competitions, which include the annual Varsity Netball championship.
Master technician De Kock said
the trials aimed at harvesting a new breed of talent players already began on 13 January with sessions held every day.
“First-year South African players are in,” said De Kock.
According to her, there was an abundance of talented netball players who pitched for trials.
De Kock, whose coaching career spans more than three decades, has also coached the national South African Proteas, the South African U23 team, and the Free State Crinums, establishing a stellar reputation and winning trophies with the provincial team in the process.
TEBOHO
The Kovsie Netball women’s team celebrate after winning the Varsity Netball trophy for the fifth time in 2024. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
The Marumo Gallants football club unveiled its newly enlisted players to bolster their offensive power, in the club’s quest to remedy the Gallants’ striking department’s ability to follow through on goal-scoring opportunities created and retain its Betway Premiership status. From the left are Junior Sédé Dion, Junior Zindoga, Dan Malesela (head coach), Ibrahim Conde, and Yanga Mjoli. The players, and their club, are ready to hit the ground running with three international imports, Dion (born in the Ivory Coast), Zindoga (Zimbabwean-born), and Conde (originating from Guinea) having been granted work permits. PHOTO: TEBOHO SETENA