Contents Features
11 It is Women’s Month
12-13 Women’s Month: Status
14-17 How to get back on track
18-21 New skills in transport are needed
22-24 Career: customer service agent
26-29 Studying overseas? read this first
30-33 Connected classrooms. The new way
38-41 No university offer? what now?
42-43 Paintings! meaning $$$
46-49 International: US Election
50-53 eSport - this is BIG
July 2024 Every Time
Back in the Middle of
We have again utilised a lot of good articles we are being sent.
These are typically relevant and well-written and we intend to make use of them as much as possible. Again, we credit these here:
• Conncted Classrooms: Valentia Nkosi, Tribeca
• No university offer?: Ella Smook, Meropa
• Preparing for International: Lungile Siyaya, Eclipse
• Back on track: Tshepiso Malinga Tribeca
We are ever so thankful and all these relevant articles.
Of course we talk about do, not only in South Africa.
To do it differently, we posers. Read on - fascinating! US elections - we have or just a mess. It has all movie in decades - except it up, I think.
We continue with careers look at customer service maybe it is for you?
• New skills in transport: Bontle Khumalo Ogilvy Hola is here to give you a break from all We are also serious, but it is now called
Good read!
the groove of the year
thankful for receiving the information articles. about Women’s Month. Still a lot to Africa. have an article on female comfascinating!
to! not sure if it is fascinating all the ingredients of the best except it is real. You couldn’t make careers in the airport. This time we service agents. This is tough! but
all the school stuff. called edutainment.
Sybil Otterstrom Editor and CEO
WE
are the Contributors
Want to be a contributor? Wanting to write like a pro?
You CAN!
look firther and see how you can become one.
... and it is a good feeling to entertain and inform.
Masiziba Hadebe is doing her Master’s in Agricultural Economics at the University of the Free State (UFS). She is driven to make a change and is a passionate volunteer for community projects. She loves reading and writing about science, agriculture and anything in between. She believes you can wear a smile whatever the weather!
My name is Lerato Pitso. I am from Maseru, Lesotho. I am a Sociology and Criminology student at UFS and Miss Supranational Lesotho 2023. When I’m not a model and a student, I write about my philosophies on life as well as expressing my feelings on paper. I hope that my views will aid in the social development of the next person.
And we are honoured to also have industry-views from:
Edith Wynne-Trollip: - Curriculum Support and advise, Overberg District
Nadia Hearn - Founder of Get-Published
Ashalia Maharajh: - Founder & Director, Sivuka Consulting (Pty) Ltd
Thozamile Mvumvu: - CFE Programme Manager, False Bay TVET
Daniel Roos - Account Executive, Transform Marketing
Artvilla Dakamela, 22, another wizard from the literature world, he is an Accounting student at the University of the Free State. He has written for the Initiative for Creative African Narratives (iCAN) amongst others. He currently resides in DurbanKZN - and is a very enthusiastic reader and writer.
My name is Molatelo Kate Kgatla, I’m 24 years old. I was born and raised in Lenyenye. I’m a grade 2 teacher at Vunza Teddy Bear Learning Academy, an author of a book titled her jouney as a young mother. I became a mother at 17. It influenced me to write about my personal journey to try and help someone that could be going through the same. I love writing and I love my 7 year old daughter and life.
Lesly Malose Mahapa is a singer/writer/poet. He started writing at the age of 14 and has since been on a journey to pursue his music and writing career. Lesly is currently working with an indie group ‘MozSouth’ based in Ivory park, Midrand. Lesly is also a brand ambassador for a local clothing line “Boi Boi apparel”
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August is Women’s Month. It is something that is very relevant on a global basis.
We still see inequality and chauvinism in many countries, not only South Africa. That is why it is still relevant to high-light some of the problems and solutions we can see.
We have chosen to use a previous article. The article is both insightful, relevant and it is also to emphasise that not much have really changed in the time frame – sadly.
However, we have also chosen to look at something different: female composers. It is an article I have been wanting to do for some time. It somehow appeals to me to see that what might be looked as a ‘male job’ is not so.
These composers span more than a thousand years of accomplished composers.
One of the composers is a living genius – read on.
… And then a small jab: AI generated music and dance videos. By Pulse9. Who’s CEO and founder is also female.
Is she a composer? And why not? Let us start the debate – LOL
Women’s Day
Women’s Day is having a long history. It is not just something new that came around after UN recognised Women’s day in 1977.
It is something very different from Mother’s day. Mother’s Day has many good intentions. There we are looking at saying ‘thank you’ to the mothers across the globe that brought up the nations.
Mother’s Day has no sharp edge, but Women’s Day has.
What time frame are we talking about? And what were the issues?
We look at the 1900s. Sure enough, women in general (across the globe really) did not have the right to vote, could not own property or sign business deals, could not enrol at university, could not …. A plethora of things.
So what changed? The industrial revolution which required a lot more industrial workers. Women got out of the house and into the factories.
As more women got to be bread-winners and acting in their own right (not just a companion to a husband), the demand for recognition was sharpened.
1909 saw the first ‘Women’s Day’ (USA) and it was soon followed with the International Women’s day - from 1910 and onwards.
First World War saw the entire established order of ‘society’ being turned upside down. Social changes were demanded and equality was on the agenda. The first major obstacle (and victory) was the right to vote.
Society again changed after Second World war. Women were suddenly to be found as soldiers or factory workers or business owners and in essence; as individuals in their own right. And the rights to go with it were indeed demanded now.
The laws of the countries changed (by and large). Equality as we see it is enshrined in the constitutions around the world.
But we can ask ourselves: is it enough?
The theme for Women’s Day according to UN is “Generation Equality”. It does point out that equality is not achieved in all countries. There are still pockets of oppression.
South Africa’s constitution guarantees an equal society. However, one thing is the law another is culture and tradition. And that is where we as South Africa should now look.
Do we still see a male-dominated environment? Do we still see malejobs and female-jobs? Do we see differences in salaries based on gender? Do we see gender-violence?
This is where attitudes in society must change to reflect the intentions of law.
… and that is why Women’s Day is still relevant!
How to get learners back on track with their school routine
Lianne Williams, Marketing Director at Vuma, shares helpful tips that parents and guardians can use to help students overcome the back-toschool blues and make the most of the remaining academic year.
With the school holidays now over, South African learners are preparing to go back to school for their third term.
While some learners might be thrilled to see their friends and teachers and catch up on activities they did over the holidays, others might be overwhelmed by their second-term performance.
As a result, they lack the drive to tackle the remaining months.
Here’s how to help a student in your life overcome the back-to-school blues and make the most of the remaining academic year:
Something to look forward to –
Whether it’s a fun after-school activity or a vacation at the end of the term, having something exciting to look forward to is a great way to keep learners’ spirits up throughout the day.
Some ideas include tickets to an upcoming concert or show, or a surprise gift they’re sure to love.
To make the experience even more interesting, you could introduce a wager. You can allow them to use extra time on the internet to book their favourite activities, after all their homework is done of course, in exchange for better results by the end of the term.
Encourage healthy living – No one wants to wake up early in the morning after less than eight hours of sleep the previous night.
Facing a day of sitting in a classroom concentrating on the whiteboard is that much trickier without the energy provided by a good night’s rest and a nutritious diet.
Encourage students to eat more veggies and fruit, to avoid sugary drinks, caffeine, and junk food, to help set them up for happier, more energised days.
Make life and learning easier –
Unlike the previous generations, Gen Zs don’t have to go through several study materials to conduct research on topics of their interest.
The internet has streamlined studying, making it less time-consuming by empowering learners with access to the latest digital education resources. However, having an unreliable internet connection can do more harm than good, hindering rather than helping them with their academic needs.
“A student would sooner give up than wait forever for a tutorial video to buffer,” says Lianne Williams, Marketing Director at South Africa’s largest fibre network operator, Vuma. “Removing the barriers to learning by investing in a reliable, fast fibre connection for the home can change a child’s life, Vuma offers an affordable way to connect to the internet without breaking the bank, and I would encourage parents to look into this, as it changes the way our children learn in their homes.”
Get organised – The saying, ‘When you fail to plan, you plan to fail’ couldn’t be truer, especially for learners. Get them a large calendar that they can stick up on the wall to plan out upcoming tasks and deadlines, including test and exam dates, study blocks, and rest days too.
Alternatively, you can download online tools such as Todoist, which allows users to add tasks and categorise them by due date and priority, and Google Workspace, which includes Google Calendar, Google Docs and Google Drive. Staying organised is half the battle won when trying to get back into the swing of things.
Remove distractions – Without becoming too restrictive and ‘punishing’ the youngster, it’s important to remove things from their weekday activities that may become too distracting from their academics.
These include constant use of digital devices and social media, gaming consoles, late nights out with friends and even binge-watching TV shows. Some learners may pretend to use their devices to consume educational content while actually engaging with friends online or catching up on series.
Installing apps such as StayFocusd can help restrict the time they spend on distracting apps. Additionally, limiting their screen time on weekdays and saving these enjoyments for weekends, can motivate them to complete their tasks and perform well.
The Future of Transport
TETA: New skills for a new era of transport
The South African transport sector is in the midst of a fundamental overhaul of its training and upskilling infrastructure, to capacitate the sector for radical social and technological change.
This was the word from Maphefo Anno-Frempong, CEO of the Transport Education Training Authority (TETA), during a keynote presentation at the 42nd South African Transport Conference.
Opening the conference, new South African transport minister Barbara Creecy had earlier noted that the sector was amid one of the greatest changes since the introduction of the automobile – thanks to evolutions in digital technology and renewable energy.
TETA is the institution tasked with ensuring that workers who enter this rapidly transforming sector, as well as those who have been in the industry for many years, have the skills to work and thrive.
TETA reports to the Department of Higher Education and Training, and
Maphefo Anno-Frempong, CEO of the Transport Education Training Authority (TETA),
is dedicated to developing the transport sector, ensuring that it has a skilled and capable workforce, and working to keep all role players financially sustainable.
Anno-Frempong says TETA works to achieve this through globally aligned skills development, rural development, industry transformation, strategy partnerships, research and innovation.
The South African transport industry was estimated to contribute R364,2 billion to the economy in 2022. It employs around 966 000 people, without taking the taxi industry into account.
Youth employment (34 and younger) increased from 33.9% to 34.4% year-on-year in Q1 2024, while the 55-and-older age group proportion declined from 10.8% to 8.4%. It remains a male-dominated sector, with only 18,1% of transport workers being women, according to Statistics SA.
At the same time, the industry is faced with critical skills shortages. There is therefore a critical need for reskilling and upskilling amidst a perfect storm of supply-chain challenges, 4IR, digitalisation, an ageing workforce, sustainability imperatives, legislative and regulatory changes, and the need for digital innovation.
To help the transport sector meet these challenges, TETA recently undertook research into the skills repurposing and reskilling needs facing the sector, and gained several key findings.
The research found that new technology was the main factor driving the need for change, and that outdated qualifications sometimes slowed progress. The impact of 4IR mainly affected the aerospace and marine sectors, but across the industry there was a need to upskill employees for new technologies.
The research also found that skills shortages in the sector were due to factors including old curriculums, outdated technology, a shortage of funding, or lack of awareness of how to secure SETA funding. There were also issues around a resistance to change.
Anno-Frempong identified the Top 10 emerging jobs in transport, for which TETA was working to design reskilling programmes:
• Autonomous vehicle operator/technician
• Electric vehicle technician
• Urban mobility specialist
• Transportation security specialist
• E-commerce logistics coordinator
• Drone delivery operator
• Data analyst/transportation planner
• Sustainable transport specialist
• Smart traffic management engineer
• Transportation IoT specialist
TETA has embarked on an ambitious redesign of its curriculums to equip current and future transport professionals for the needs of their evolving sector.
New training initiatives include courses in green transport, drone technology, 4IR, Internet of Things (IoT) and adjacent disciplines, in partnership with institutions like University of Johannesburg, Stellenbosch University, and Tshwane University.
TETA also recently launched a new Scholarship to the World Maritime University in Malmo, Sweden. The project is aimed at unlocking the potential of the ocean economy by upskilling the industry at masters’ and PhD level. There are currently 80 scholarship beneficiaries, in the programme.
TETA works in partnership with the Qualifications Council For Trades and Occupations (QCTO) to ensure that occupational qualifications and skills programmes are adequately designed, accredited, implemented and certified.
The revamp of qualifications infrastructure for the new transport era has seen 31 of 37 non-trade qualifications being phased out. These are in the process of being replaced with new occupational qualifications.
The 39 former trade qualifications are in the process of being developed into occupational qualifications, and 1 894 unit standards are being registered and registered as skills programmes.
“Occupational qualifications are critical,” said Anno-Frempong. “A skilled transport workforce drives economic growth, it attracts investment, and it supports our national development plans.
“In partnership with the industrial players in our sector, TETA is committed to rolling out the new system, so we can all enjoy the benefits.”
Career – airport service agent
Yes, these are the people who directly interact with the people in the airport. Passengers of course, but also the ones who are dropping you off, the family welcoming you back from overseas, the … - you name it. There are many people in an airport, not just the ones who are queuing to get onboard and off into the skies.
I found this here. It is the job description from SafAir, but I think it covers it all.
Responsibilities
• Assist passengers with ticket sales, bookings and flight changes including explaining rules, terms and conditions, regulations and procedures as and when required;
• Assist customers when there are flight disruptions and/or cancellations;
• Handle and safeguard of confidential information;
• Address any complaints in a professional and timeous manner;
• Escalate any problematic issues to the Supervisor on duty;
• Provide professional Customer service at all times.
Requirements:
• Grade 12 or equivalent;
• Airport and ticket sales experience;
• Able and willing to work on weekends, public holidays, flexible hours, and shifts, as and when required;
• Good knowledge and understanding of a computer and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook);
• Excellent understanding of delivering great customer service;
• Excellent written and verbal command of the English language including proper phone etiquette;
• Conflict resolution skills.
Personal Attributes:
• Punctual; - High degree of patience and assertiveness;
• Trustworthy, professional and reliable, including dealing with confidential information;
• Immaculate timekeeping;
• The ability to work well under pressure;
• Practice good time management;
• Customer focused and service orientated.
Let us look at a few of the above. I found the info here
Attentiveness
An airport customer service agent role typically includes helping others and making them feel comfortable. It often requires that you understand their needs, and this skill allows you to observe individual customers and decipher where there might be any concerns. Being attentive helps you assist customers and provide personalized services.
Language proficiency
When working at an airport, you’re likely to meet people from different parts of the world. Communicating with them may require multiple language proficiencies.
The ability to speak multiple languages may give you an advantage when an airline is deciding which candidate best suits the role. You can improve this skill by taking short courses in the most popular languages locally. This can help you achieve successful interactions.
This is especially important in South Africa. We do have 11 official languages (who can master them all?), but besides English we could also see an advantage being knowledgeable in Afrikaans, IsiZulu, SeSotho and perhaps sign language (of which there are several ‘dialects).
Empathy and composure
Empathy refers to your ability to relate to customers and understand their concerns. Composure helps you remain calm and professional.
These skills can help you communicate better with clients who have limited knowledge of the airline’s products or services. They may also ensure that you resolve client concerns efficiently, even on busy days.
Good luck!
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR CAREER
Knowing yourself and your capabilities
Career Planning
For you to pursue your career choice.
You need to pass your National Senior Certificate!
“ it is in your hands “
- Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela
ChooseSubjectsyour
Careerchoice
The Eastern Cape Department of Education encourages learners to choose suitable career path, by collecting information that will help them pursue their career / field of study.
How
South African Parents Are Preparing for International Opportunities
Many South African parents are looking beyond domestic borders to ensure brighter futures for their children. Several are turning to international education, travel, and second homes to preserve and expand their wealth while enhancing opportunities.
To shed light on this evolving trend and offer insights into strategic financial planning, Rex Cowley, Director and Co-founder of Overseas Trust & Pension, a specialist in international pensions, fiduciary services, and wealth management, shares his expertise.
International education and travel offer youth invaluable opportunities to gain a global perspective, develop intercultural skills, and build diverse networks. Such experiences open doors to prestigious universities and global career opportunities.
This trend reflects the aspirations of South African families, who aim for expanded educational horizons, stronger familial bonds, and enhanced financial security for their children. Key motivations driving South African parents to explore international opportunities include pursuing high-quality education.
The current digital age has paved the way for access to international education. Online courses supplemented by short-term residencies offer cost-effective alternatives to full-time overseas study. However, the desire for immersive international experiences highlights the need for thorough financial planning.
Parents must navigate numerous financial considerations when planning for their children’s education abroad. International education can be prohibitively expensive, particularly for international students.
At a recent financial planning conference focused on retirement, Cowley stated that various investment strategies were explored.
For instance, if someone started saving R150,000 in 2009, their investment could grow to R11,941,074.83 by 2024 if invested in the S&P 500. This growth could enable significant financial goals, such as educating a child overseas or purchasing property for student accommodation.
Studying in the UK, for example, can exceed £35,000 (R770 000) annually, covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses. Hence, early and strategic financial planning is imperative to manage these costs effetively ensure a seamless transition for their children.
A robust strategy involves saving anticipated expenses in the currency to mitigate currency fluctuation risks. Financial Advisers are instrumental in recommending suitable investment options.
Given the relatively short investment horizon - from high school to university - a balanced approach should be prioritised, incorporating inflation-linked investments and growth assets. This strategy ensures robust growth while minimising the risk of significant value fluctuations, providing parents with financial security.
Planning extends beyond education to long-term benefits, such as acquiring a second home in the destination country. This serves dual purposes, providing accommodation during the study period and potentially serving as a retirement or vacation home for parents. Cities like Manchester, London, and Edinburgh are popular for their suitability as student accommodations and future family homes, offering parents security and stability.
Furthermore, many parents contemplate relocating closer to their grandchildren as their children settle abroad. Depending on feasibility and personal circumstances, this may involve purchasing a second home or permanent immigration.
Financial planners and wealth management experts guide parents through the intricate landscape of preparing for their children’s international pursuits. Cowley emphasises several key areas to consider: “They should first help clients understand the financial implications of international education, covering tuition, living expenses, and potential travel costs. Early and strategic savings are crucial, highlighting the importance of saving early and using suitable currencies to mitigate currency risk mismatches.”
Cowley adds: “Advising on an investment strategy is pivotal; recommending a balanced approach ensures steady growth while protecting against significant value fluctuations over the savings period. Furthermore, long-term planning discussions should extend beyond education to encompass broader implications such as acquiring property abroad and preparing for eventual family reunification.”
An effective investment strategy is essential for achieving a successful future, enabling families to navigate the complexities of international education planning with confidence and foresight.
Financial Advisers play a pivotal role in guiding families through this intricate landscape, ensuring they make informed decisions that benefit their children for years to come. With careful planning and strategic financial management, South African families can envision a brighter, more globally connected future for their children.
Cowley also states that using foreign products to provide for education or post-educational needs can enhance the likelihood of achieving the desired outcome. For example, international preservation funds provide asset protection, a degree of tax efficiency, and access to funds when needed.
How connected classrooms can unlock learners’ potential
Internet access is a lot like oxygen these days – we can’t seem to live without it. Learners, parents and educators would probably agree, as the internet has made learning so much easier, effective, and engaging through access to educational resources online.
“The connected classroom can change the face of education in South Africa, giving learners across the country access to the same learning opportunities and quality of education,” says Lianne Williams, Marketing Director at Vuma.
“Ensuring every learner not only has access to the internet in these spaces but that they are also empowered to make the best use of the world of resources it opens up to them is crucial in changing the educational landscape in South Africa for the better.”
Keeping learners and educators in touch
The benefits of a connectivity-enabled classroom are countless, from being able to access millions of learning resources to finding a community in the learning space. Here are a few more ways the internet can transform learning both within and outside the classroom.
When learners have trouble understanding a math equation or need help with a tricky science concept in their homework, they may be tempted to give up figuring it out altogether.
Having a WhatsApp group or access to any other instant messaging app with their peers and teachers helps them work through challenges on the spot, overcome potential disruptions and continue learning.
The school of YouTube
YouTube videos can be a great source of information for learners, especially those who find it easier to grasp information audio-visually.
For educators, YouTube and other online video platforms can serve as supplements to lesson plans, helping learners engage with new subjects and concepts.
Making learning fun and engaging
The traditional classroom of yester-year required children to sit quietly and read from their textbooks. Today, we know that the most impactful learning happens when learners are able to see subjects come to life and are able to relate what’s being taught to what they are familiar with. Digital tools such as animation, popular memes and GIFs, virtual games, music and more are now more commonly used to aid learners in their educational journeys.
Supporting differently abled learners
Learners with learning, hearing, visual, and physical disabilities require special educational resources, and educators can support these needs by making more extensive use of online resources that are designed especially for these circumstances.
For example, online learning resources that incorporate sign language and graphics for the hearing impaired, audiobooks for the visually impaired, and alternative teaching methods for those with learning disabilities are just some examples of what educators can use to supplement classroom learning.
The anytime, anywhere nature of the internet also means that those with physical disabilities, who may find it difficult to attend classes or even have to miss school, can attend online classes from home or watch recordings of lessons in their own time.
Learning in your own language
For learners who struggle to learn in English medium classes, learning can be an isolating and frustrating experience. Having access to translation apps, online dictionaries, peer forums and even multi-vernacular learning materials online can help break down language barriers and make the learning process much smoother.
“Internet access provides South African schools and learners with the tools they need to unlock their own potential and empower themselves and their communities to achieve those bright, bold futures they deserve.
As Vuma continues to work towards connecting as many classrooms to free fibre as possible through our Fibre to Schools programme, which has connected over 780 schools to date, our vision to transform the landscape of education and opportunity in the country remains as strong as ever,” concludes Williams.
New Exhibitions
We added two new exhibitions to our collection on the floor. The 4IR and Mirror Maze exhibitions
4IR Exhibition
The 4IR exhibition currently hosts the Humanoids (two small ones and the big one called Pepper), Virtual reality Station, Augmented Reality and the interactive displays integrated with of a number of TV screens.
This concept is through the touch screen located at the entrance to the center. Interactive display section has been created where visitors are encouraged to use traditional touch screens to immerse themselves in games and content around Science Technology Engineering and Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).
Children are provided with the opportunity to play games to train their analytical ability, improve their ability to solve puzzles and chal-
lenges. They are also challenged to explore more traditional content style, such as exploration of subjects including how Artificial Intelligence works, Machine Learning, how data transfers over networks etc.
Science Exploration
While traditional science teaching has complex challenges around logistics, safety and costs. VR has none of these limitations. Experiments are done as often as needed with no physical costs of materials or safety concerns. Students can learn about physics and chemistry, life science etc. in a safe environment. Within VR learning occurs without any distract but with full immersion. Learning and understanding mathematics becomes easier and more fun inside of VR due to the nature of games and how they are designed.
This is designed to make learning and exploration real fun especially for little ones. Wide learning opportunities exist through this exhibition, children have many prospects to learn on, e.g. google earth exploration experience.
With Google Earth VR, children can travel to almost any place in the world. They can fly all over the world and explore any city, any monument and landmark anywhere in the world.The exhibition has two different types of humanoids the small one (called Sanbot Max and the Bigger one called Pepper).
The Sanbot Max robot was designed to be implemented into numerous kinds of business scenarios, providing customers and staff members with intelligent and efficient services.
Pepper is a semi-humanoid robot, which means that a human has to control it. It is designed with the ability to read emotions. Pepper recognizes faces and basic human emotion.
Drones and Mirror Maze
Drones Pilots at the Clubhouse
Did you know that the Clubhouse has three certified drone pilots?
They also have 10 DJI Tell drones that they will used for their drone course.
They are currently putting together content for the said course.
In addition, the Clubhouse offers programmes such as Teach Fundamentals of drones, real-life applications of drones: namely surveillance using object identification and tracking to videography for commercials and other media use.
This includes python programming that covers drone automation.
Mirror Maze Exhibit
A mirror is an object that reflects an image. Light that bounces off a mirror will show an image of whatever is in front of it, when focused through the lens of the eye or a camera.
Mirrors reverse the direction of the image in an equal yet opposite angle from which the light shines upon it. This allows the viewer to see themselves or objects behind them, or even objects that are at an angle from them but out of their field of view, such as around a corner.
Natural mirrors have existed since prehistoric times, such as the surface of water, but people have been manufacturing mirrors out of a variety of materials for thousands of years, like stone, metals, and glass. In modern mirrors, metals like silver or aluminum are often used due to their high reflectivity, applied as a thin coating on glass because of its natu- rally smooth and very hard surface.
A maze is a path or collection of paths, typically from an entrance to a goal. The word is used to refer both to branching tour puzzles through which the solver must find a route, and to simpler non-branching patterns that lead unambiguously through a convoluted layout to a goal. The pathways and walls in a maze are typically fixed, but puzzles in which the walls and paths can change during the game are also categorised as mazes or tour puzzles Mirror Maze
The mirror maze itself is a pattern, combining several characteristics of geometric patterns: repetition, symmetry and tessellation using repeated equilateral triangles. These triangles fit together without any gaps or overlaps, creating a tessellation. Mirrored surfaces all around reflect the pattern so that it repeats and appears infinite.
GRADE 11s AND 12s: WHAT TO DO IF YOU DID NOT RECEIVE A UNIVERSITY OFFER
During Grade 11 and Matric, the stress and anxiety for students and parents can be overwhelming, not only because of the pressure to perform well during exams and assessments but also because of the complexities and uncertainties brought about by applying for university placement.
Apart from the stressful and exhausting application process to various universities and for different qualifications, many students endure the disappointment of not being placed in the universities they applied to and having to decide on their next steps.
“While this situation now facing thousands upon thousands of prospective students throughout South Africa feels like an intractable problem for them and their families, it is important to put the matter into perspective and, first of all, not take it personally or view it as a failure,” says Dr Linda Meyer, MD of IIE Rosebank College.
The 26 Public Universities in South Africa only accept around 210,000 first-year students annually, and this reality can create significant worry about what will happen if a future student’s plans to attend a public university unfold differently than expected.
“Of course, it is frustrating not to be able to cross this item off your to-dolist, especially if you have worked very hard and were not accepted while many of your peers already received offers. But view this as a temporary hurdle rather than a permanent roadblock,” she says.
“The reality of the admissions process is that only a small number of students will receive an acceptance letter from their preferred institution for their preferred degree.
The competition is intense, with tens of thousands of matric students vying for a limited number of spots. It’s natural for parents and students to feel anxious about whether they will achieve the necessary results to secure a place at a university,” says Dr Meyer.
She urges parents and students to remember that there are many pathways to success and that a university or college acceptance is not the only – or even best – route to a fulfilling and successful career.
Some alternatives to consider include:
Technical and Vocational Training Colleges: Vocational training programmes and technical colleges offer specialised education in various fields such as engineering, healthcare, information technology and the arts. These institutions often have more flexible admission requirements and provide practical, hands-on experience that can lead directly to employment.
Distance Learning and Online Education: Distance learning and online education have become increasingly popular and accessible. These programmes offer flexibility for students to learn at their own pace and often at a lower cost than traditional universities. Many reputable institutions offer accredited online courses and degrees.
Bridging Courses and Foundation Programmes: For students who may need to meet the direct entry requirements for university, bridging courses and foundation programmes are an excellent option. These programmes are designed to help students build the necessary skills and knowledge to qualify for their desired courses in the future.
Internships and Learnerships:
Internships and learnerships provide valuable on-the-job training and experience. These programmes allow students to earn while they learn, gaining practical skills and industry insights that can be highly advantageous in the job market. Contact a SETA for further information.
Private Higher Education Institutions: The only significant difference between a registered and accredited Private Higher Education Institution and a public university is that the former is not government funded. PHEIs remain a valuable alternative to studying at a public university, and their graduates are in high demand in the workplace.
It is essential, however, to ensure that you confirm your qualifications. SAQA must register all qualifications in South Africa, and the provider must appear on the DHET list of licenced providers. The Council of Higher Education oversees public and private higher education providers as the responsible quality council.
“Starting from Grade 11, the period leading up to and following Matric exams is undoubtedly challenging for students and parents. The uncertainty surrounding university admissions adds to the stress, but it’s essential to remember that there are numerous paths to success,” says Dr Meyer.
“By exploring alternative education options, managing stress effectively, and keeping an open mind, students can find fulfilling and rewarding career opportunities regardless of the outcome of their university applications. The journey to success is rarely a straight line, and flexibility and resilience are vital to navigating it successfully.”
Paintings
The myth-rich environment is of course paintings. There is so much going on and it is all fascinating. Not just the money part though.
Paintings need not be old for being expensive or good, although age has an impact.
Let us look at some that are just instantly recognizable:
Mona Lisa
Wiki says: …a half-length portrait painting by Italian artist Leonardo da Vinci. Considered an archetypal masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance, it has been described as “the best known, the most visited, the most written about, the most sung about, [and] the most parodied work of art in the world”. The painting’s novel qualities include the subject’s enigmatic expression, monumentality of the composition, the subtle modelling of forms, and the atmospheric illusionism. Value? Maybe $860 million or more.
Girl with a pearl earring (Vermeer):
Wiki: “The painting is a tronie, the Dutch 17th-century description of a “head” that was not meant to be a portrait. It depicts a European girl
wearing “exotic dress”, an “oriental turban”, and what appears to be a very large pearl as an earring. The subject of the painting is unknown, There has been speculation that she is the artist’s eldest daughter, Maria, though this has been dismissed as an anachronism by some art historians Value? Nobody can estimate it.
The Scream (Munch):
Wiki: “Munch recalled that he had been out for a walk at sunset when suddenly the setting sun’s light turned the clouds “a blood red”. He sensed an “infinite scream passing through nature”. Explanations for the unnaturally orange sky range from the effects of a volcanic eruption to a psychological reaction by Munch to his sister’s commitment at a nearby lunatic asylum. Value? $119,9 million
The Great Wave off Kanagawa (Hokusai)
Wiki: “The print is Hokusai’s bestknown work in which the use of Prussian blue revolutionized Japanese prints. The composition of The Great Wave is a synthesis of traditional Japanese prints and use of graphical perspective developed in Europe, and earned him immediate success in Japan and later in Europe, where Hokusai’s art inspired works by the Impressionists. Value? $2,8 million.
What is NSFAS?
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government entity under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
What does NSFAS do?
Supports access to and success in, higher education and training for students from poor and working-class families who would otherwise not be able to afford the cost of studies at a public university or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college.
•Provides financial aid to eligible students who are studying or plan to study at any of the 50 TVET colleges or the 26 public universities in South Africa
•Identifies students who qualify for the bursary
•Provides bursaries to students
Who qualifies for NSFAS funding?
• All South African citizens
• All SASSA grant recipients
• Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350 000 per annum
• Persons with disabilities with a combined household income of not more than R600 000 per annum
• Students who started studying at a university before 2018 and whose household income is not more than R122 000 per annum
What does the NSFAS bursary cover?
• Registration
• Tuition
• Book allowance
• Accommodation allowance
• Transport allowance
• Food allowance
• Personal care allowance
Does the NSFAS bursary offer any additional support for students with disabilities?
Yes, NSFAS further supports funded students with disabilities through an additional allowance that covers:
• Medical assessments
• Assistive devices
• Human support to cover for the cost of a caregiver, guide dog, scribe or tutor.
How, where and when can one apply for NSFAS?
The 2021 application season will be communicated through media, social media and the NSFAS website www.nsfas.org.za.
Applications are submitted online through the NSFAS website: www.nsfas.org.za
To apply for NSFAS funding students must have a registered myNSFAS account If you plan to study in 2021 and require support from NSFAS, you may open your myNSFAS account now to keep updated with the latest funding information.
Connect with us using the following channels:
NSFAS Connect: www.nsfas.org.za and log into your myNSFAS account
NSFAS Connect gives you access to quick facts and frequently asked questions. Applicants and students can also submit and track a query for further assistance.
This is not only confusing. It is messy – and rather exciting.
Remember 2020 election? It was of course exciting, but there we had two (old) men shuffling around and talking badly about each other.
Trump will be the republican candidate in the Novembre election. He was nominated by a massive majority at the Republican conference on 15 July. That is now settled.
First of all, Joe Biden is nearly 82. And let us face it: it can be seen and that has been the case for some time. He walks like an old man and now having trouble sitting down and so on.
His speeches have not been particular full of ‘zest’. One can ask: what is his view of the future? How will he get us there?
Donald Trumps is 78. That can also be seen after all, but he does look full of vigor compared to Biden.
However, Trump is not talking much about how he will bring prosperity and happiness to USA.
His speeches are full of venom and he is still fighting his lost election in 2020.
Would it again have been a matter of not a ‘yes’ to Biden, but more of a ‘no’ to Trump election? Neither of the two are particular seen as great presidential material right now.
There have been lots of questions asked about Biden running again. Is he not too old?
And then Sunday 22 July came around
Biden pulled out of the race and endorsed Kamala Harris as the candidate.
That has now turned the entire thing upside down. And remember, November is not too far away now.
Trump and his cohort are already out finding dirt on Harris. But where Biden did not really fight back, Harris has already put her mark on the race.
Her first rally was full of inspiration and her vision for the future. And a few remarks like:
I quote from CNN: ““took on perpetrators of all kinds: Predators who abused women; fraudsters who ripped off consumers; cheaters who broke the rules for their own gain. So hear me when I say, I know Donald Trump’s type,”
Harris has raised some $100 million in less than 36 hours. That is a new and a good indication of her chances of winning.
Of course it will be held against her that she is a woman (sic!). On top of, she is not the ‘typical white American’.
Her mother is from India (a PhD in biology), her father is from Jamaica (a PhD in economics). Harris herself is a lawyer and was the attorney-general of California. She became a senator in 2017.
So how will it play out? This might be the most colourful election ever as it is hard to compare the candidates.
Does Trump’s MAGA followers have enough of the population behind him? There is now a chasm opening between the MAGAs and the republican voters.
The shrill voices and the hate from the MAGAs are turning some of the core republicans away from Trump. Those were not the ones at the convention (and the nomination).
However, Trump has a following in terms of ‘rescuing’ USA. Of course the shooting helped as well.
Will Harris automatically attract the non-white votes and the women?
That is not a given either. At least not in the US.
Her stance on a lot of issues is well-known. Stricter gun laws, social security etc. But those are issues that a fair amount of Americans do not subscribe to either.
My take is that if trump keeps on fighting the 2020 election while Harris talks about reforms and job creation and the future, Trump will lose.
However, Trump’s vision (as much as I understand it) does go down well in many areas of USA. The liberal agenda is not great in the rust belt where jobs are scarce.
Let us just imagine for a moment that Harris will win very convincingly. Will Trump and the MAGAs accept defeat this time or will we now have another riot and insurrection?
This time Trump will not have a presidential platform but that could be an advantage if he will encourage another insurrection.
This could easily be a factor as well. If people can suspect Trump of another insurrection they might fear his presidency and vote Harris.
Bring the popcorn – it is going to be delightfully grizzly.
eSport is marching!
Remember our previous article on eSport? Really only a few months back. eSport has simply just evolved faster than anyone could imagine.
I found an article here. The amazing fact is that Saudi is positioning itself as the eSport capital of the world.
The latest is the inaugural eSport World Cup, running from 4 July to 24 August 2024. It will feature 22 events in 21 different video game titles. It is already half-way there and it is a massive success.
I quote from the article:
“With a worldwide fanbase of 530 million, esports, the blend of gaming and competitive sports, is changing the entertainment industry.
Supported by a thriving $200bn gaming industry, what began as informal online matches between friends has now become a global sensation televised worldwide.
“Gaming is the largest leisure activity of our time, a universal language spoken everywhere,” said Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation. “This growth, generation by generation, has paved the way for esports to become the world’s fastest-growing and most in-demand sport.”
“Now valued at $4.3bn, the esports industry is predicted annual growth of 7%, reaching $5.7bn by 2028. Armed with a highly engaged audience and accelerating digital innovation, experts in business, marketing, and publishing are discovering that esports isn’t just a fleeting trend – it’s a cultural and economic powerhouse”
“For the first time in history, the EWC prize pool will exceed $60 million, which the 1500+ global competitors, across 21 game titles, can win a share of. The tournament is also primed to introduce a brand-new crossgame competition format that will not only reward individual title winners but also overall club performance, which will have its own $20 million dedicated prize pot”.
The last Cricket world cup had some 50 million viewers Euro 2024 viewers? Some 24 million Superbowl? Some 125 million viewers
The bigger question is: Although eSport may not rival soccer anytime soon, we can easily see that eSport will be ranked as one of the big ones.
The significant ‘endorsement’ of eSport is probably the latest move to make eSport an Olympic discipline.
I quote from here.
“By SVG Staff Monday, July 15, 2024 - 10:01 am
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announce that it has partnered with the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of Saudi Arabia to host the inaugural Olympic Esports Games 2025 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
This step follows the IOC’s recent announcement that the IOC Executive Board (EB) has established Olympic Esports Games. The proposal will be made to the IOC Session, which will be held on the eve of the Olympic Games Paris 2024”
So, we have the eSport World Cup this year and in 2025 we have the Olympic eSport.
It is telling that it has to be in Saudi. The venues are not small and the venues are now there.
I quote from here:
“As the new epicenter of esports in the Kingdom, the gigantic SEF Arena will boast state-of-the-art facilities and impressive capacity.
The arena covers a total area of more than 34,000 square meters with a main building at over 18,000 square meters. The main building contains four venues with capacities of 1,571 people, 1,565 people, 1,570 and 1,252.
Building 2 covers 7,308 square meters and has an arena with a capacity of 2,245.
The impact on Saudi is going to be big. Saudi really wants to capture this growing market:
“This ethos reflects Saudi’s National Gaming and Esports Strategy, which aims to create more than 39,000 jobs and increase the sector’s contribution to the country’s GDP by $13.3 billion by 2030.
The problem with eSport is, in many ways, that the video games are rather violent. That is something the Olympic committee’s are addressing.
It opens the doors for a lot of criticism and might impact the popularity (and parent acceptance) if the violence is not tones down a bit.
That can also be a drawback as the very young might be attracted to the violent games and will not be interested in the ‘cute’ ones.
eSport is not easy!
Female Composers
In keeping with Women’s Month of August, we look at female composers and artists. Thanks Wiki
Hildegard of Bingen (1098 –1179), was a German Benedictine abbess and polymath active as a writer, composer, philosopher, mystic, visionary, and as a medical writer and practitioner during the High Middle Ages. She is one of the best-known composers of sacred monophony, as well as the most recorded in modern history.
Nancy Dalberg (1881 –1949) was a Danish composer. Born into a wealthy family she studied under notable composers such as Johan Svendsen and Carl Nielsen, the later becoming a good friend and a significant figure in her life.
Maria del Carmen Pérez Jiménez was born in Montevideo, the daughter of Spanish residents Santos Rojas and still life painter Antonio Pérez Giménez Barradas. She first studied with Antonio Frank, but ended the study after her father died in 1898. With support from friends and family, she later continued with Aurora Pablo and M. Lopes Vicente at the Conservatorio del Uruguay, receiving her diploma in 1915.
Sook-Ja Oh (born 26 May 1941) is a South Korean composer. She was born in Seoul, Korea and studied at Kyung Hee University, where she received a Bachelor of Arts in 1971 and a Master of Arts in 1973. She continued her studies in electronic music at Peabody College in the United States, and in orchestral conducting at the Mozarteum in Salzburg
Alma Elizabeth Deutscher (born 19 February 2005) is a British composer, pianist, violinist and conductor. A former child prodigy, Deutscher composed her first piano sonata at the age of five; at seven, she completed the short opera, The Sweeper of Dreams, and later wrote a violin concerto at age nine. At the age of ten, she wrote her first full-length opera, Cinderella, which had its European premiere in Vienna in 2016. Deutscher’s piano concerto was premiered when she was 12. She has lived in Vienna, Austria, since 2018. She made her debut at Carnegie Hall in 2019 in a concert dedicated to her own composition.
IITERNITI (formerly: ETERNITY) is a South Korean virtual band formed by Pulse9. The group debuted on March 22, 2021, with the single “I’m Real”. The group consists of 11 members: Seoa, Sujin, Minji, Zae-in, Hyejin, Dain, Chorong, Jiwoo, Yeoreum, Sarang and Yejin. They are created with artificial intelligence technology, Deep Real.
Pulse9 General Information
Developer of a virtual figure automation technology intended to create realistic character images. The company’s technology can be used in areas such as influencer, entertainment, branding, and creative, enabling companies to use virtual characters at a reasonable cost.
Jieun Park is the CEO of PULSE9, the techtainment company, renowned for creating IITERNITI, the world’s first K-POP AI idol girl group.
With a solid background in both technology and entertainment, Jieun has propelled PULSE9 to the forefront of the AI-driven entertainment sector.
It’s movie
These are some But ... that could
All courtesy
Deadpool & Wolverine
Ryan Reynolds returns as the Merc with the Mouth, who now has to find his place in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, in this third Deadpool film. Hugh Jackman also returns as Wolverine, but not the Wolverine we know. This alternate universe Logan isn’t exactly a world-saving hero, but with limited options, Deadpool needs his help to save those he loves.
Screening: 26 July 2024
movie time!
some crazy movies could be crazy-fun
of Flicks
Borderlands
Eli Roth (Thanksgiving) helms this feature film based on the popular sci-fi looter shooter, set on the abandoned fictional planet of Pandora where people search for a mysterious relic
Screening: 9 August 2024
August in South Africa Still winter
August is cold and night and dusty and hot during the day. And still the first signs of spring to be noticed.
All of this from Wiki.
Secret Society of Happy People (SOHP) is an organization that celebrates the expression of happiness. Founded in August 1998, the society encourages thousands of members from all around the globe to recognize their happy moments and think about happiness in their daily life.
The Secret Society of Happy People supports people who want to share their happiness despite the ones who don’t want to hear happy news. Their mottos include “Happiness Happens” and “Don’t Even Think of Raining on My Parade”.
The main purpose of the Society is to stimulate people’s right to express their happiness “as loud as they want”.
The Society was founded in August 1998 in Irving, Texas, by Pamela Gail Johnson.
In 1999 the Society declared August 8 as the “Admit You’re Happy Day”, now known as the “Happiness Happens Day”.
August Bank Holiday. Last Monday in August.
This is again something archaic and very British.
A bank holiday is a national public holiday in the United Kingdom and the Crown Dependencies, and a colloquial term for a public holiday in the Republic of Ireland.
In the United Kingdom, the term refers to all public holidays, be they set out in statute, declared by royal proclamation, or held by convention under common law. In the Republic of Ireland, there are some bank holidays which are not public holidays.
The term “bank holiday” refers to the fact that banking institutions typically close for business on such holidays, as they once used to do on certain saint’s days.
The origins of the term is a bit obscure. True that banks closed on certain days and that got carried into being general holidays.
The bank branch might still be closed, but online banking is not, so it is a bit of a misnomer.
Now all holidays (nearly) are then ‘bank holidays and there is an annual calendar that lists them all.
Why it is a Monday I have no idea at all.
Very British.
We need writers!
Hola MaHigh-School is YOUR magazine. That is why we would love to see students writing for students about student life and everything of importance to a student in any grade10-12 across the country.
What is required? That is easy:
You have to be in grade 10-12somewhere
Impeccable in your preferred language-and that might not be English. We try to be more than just English.
Passionate about your topic of choice - no dull articles here.
Do you get anything out of it?
Well, not money, sorrry. BUT if we publish your articles you will have:
Your bio in a commercial magazine A photo of yourself
You can put it all on your CV you can use us as a reference
My name is Rofhiwa and I love to write. I have used my skills to express my thoughts on international dealings of the world which have been published in Hola MaHigh-School. It has paid off, not only is my work printed for young people in the country to read, but it also contributed to me gettng a bursary from CNBC-Africa to do my post-graduate studies. Would be a lot harder to get by if I didn’t have a platform like Hola MaHigh-School.
Next Time...
We will be talking about Women’s Day (and month).
The truth is that there is still a lot more to be done. It is a work in progress and it is not just South Africa.
We will also utilise much more of the articles we are getting sent. These are extremely relevant and represent the best of thinking out there.
We can all learn and it is a good thing to learn from well-informed people.
There is a need for some ‘light’ entertainment. That will be conspiracies. I love these and I promise we will get to that as well.
Tech? my cell needs replacement - LOL. maybe we should look at that as well.
Until next time!
Coronavirus Protect yourself
Wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds
How long is 20 seconds?
Hum the first verse of our national anthem: Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika
