Category: MIL-OSI

In support of the Bafana Bafana opening match against Mexico at the FIFA World Cup, the Madlanga Commission on Thursday donned their Bafana jerseys.

“As you all see, today we, the entire Commission, are donning the Bafana Bafana jersey. Since today is the opening of Bafana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, it is fitting to show them our unwavering support. We trust that they will do well,” Chairperson of the Commission, Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga said.

Justice Madlanga called on all South Africans to support the national men’s team as they go head to head against Mexico in the Group A game tonight at 9pm. –SAnews.gov.za

 

 

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Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has moved to reassure South Africans that qualifications obtained before 2009 remain valid and continue to be officially recognised, despite ongoing reforms to the country’s qualifications system.

Addressing a media briefing on developments relating to the National Qualifications Framework on Thursday, Manamela said concerns that legacy qualifications would become invalid are unfounded.

“Every qualification that has already been awarded remains valid, recognised and recorded on the National Learners’ Records Database,” Manamela said.

Manamela’s remarks come amid the implementation of the Directive on Transitional Arrangements for Pre-2009 Qualifications, which seeks to transition South Africa from older qualifications to a modern occupational qualifications framework.

He stressed that the reform process is not intended to diminish the value of qualifications already earned by learners and workers.

“Let me state from the outset that this transition is not about invalidating qualifications that people have worked hard to achieve, nor is it about diminishing the value of learning that has already taken place. The legacy qualifications, as they are called, have contributed meaningfully to workforce development and economic participation over many years.

“However, these qualifications have favoured the classroom over the workshop. What we are introducing are qualifications that guarantee practical experience and workplace placement. It is about modernising the system to make the Skills Revolution a reality,” Manamela said.

While some pre-2009 qualifications are being phased out and replaced by occupational qualifications, the Minister assured that learners, who have already completed those programmes, retain full recognition of their credentials.

NATED Report 190-1 Programmes

The Minister also reassured students enrolled in National Accredited Technical Education Diploma (NATED) Report 190-1 programmes [legacy, historically theory-based post-school courses offered by Technical and Vocational Education and Training colleges], that their qualifications will not lose recognition during the transition period.

He encouraged students currently enrolled in N4 to N6 programmes to continue with their studies as planned, assuring that their qualifications will not lose recognition.

He said the department is working with Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), industry partners and government departments to expand workplace placement opportunities required for students to complete their National N Diplomas.

“The NATED Report 190-1 programmes require a separate approach because of their relevance within the education and training landscape. The department has already issued Circular TC 0134(b) outlining teach-out arrangements, achievement dates and learner support measures. Replacement occupational qualifications have already been developed and are being implemented,” Manamela said.

Teach-out is an educational arrangement that allows current students to complete their qualifications or degrees, even if an institution closes, restructures or phases out older programmes.

Work integrated learning 

On the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programme for all students who have acquired the necessary theoretical component of their training, the Minister assured NATED students, and the broader public, that this is being attended to.

“We have completed the data verification process for all students who require the 18 or 24 months of workplace-based experience to qualify for their National Diplomas, and we are in the final stages of securing funding for their stipends through various partnerships with industry and other government departments to support placement of students for experiential learning. 

“The department, with the support of the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), facilitates the placement of approximately 21 000 TVET students in workplaces annually. The department is also prioritising engagements with employers in the public and private sector to expand the availability of WIL opportunities, while exploring funding mechanisms in collaboration with SETAs and the National Skills Fund and employers,” Manamela said.

The Minister urged learners, employers, Skills Development Providers and other stakeholders to consult official information published by the Department of Higher Education and Training, the South African Qualifications Authority and the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations for clarity on the transitional arrangements.

He emphasised that the reforms are designed to strengthen the qualifications system without disadvantaging learners who have already completed their studies.

“As government advances the transition towards a modernised occupational qualifications system, our foremost priority is to protect the value of qualifications, uphold public confidence in the skills development system, and ensure that every learner is afforded a fair and meaningful pathway to success and employability,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has announced a series of transitional arrangements aimed at modernising South Africa’s qualifications system, while ensuring continuity for learners, training providers and employers.

Speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday, Manamela said the implementation of the Directive on Transitional Arrangements for Pre-2009 Qualifications forms part of government’s broader efforts to strengthen and future-proof the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).

The directive, published on 3 June 2024 under the National Qualifications Framework Act (Act 67 of 2008), seeks to ensure an orderly transition towards a modernised qualifications framework; accelerate the development and implementation of occupational qualifications, and strengthen the responsiveness, quality and credibility of qualifications within the Post-School Education and Training system.

It also aims to improve alignment between education, training and labour market needs, and reinforce accountability among Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), quality councils and other implementing bodies.

“The Directive established the policy framework for transitioning South Africa from pre-2009 qualifications towards a modern occupational qualifications system that better reflects workplace requirements, technological advancement and the evolving needs of our economy,” Manamela said.

He explained that the reform is intended to bridge the gap between classroom-based learning and practical workplace experience by introducing qualifications that place greater emphasis on hands-on training and work-integrated learning.

Over 900 qualifications registered

The Minister highlighted that significant progress has already been made since the Directive was issued. To date, 948 occupational qualifications and part-qualifications have been registered on the National Qualifications Framework.

He said that of the 1 475 pre-2009 qualifications that had reached their registration end date, 630 were granted learner enrolment extensions, following consultation and engagement with stakeholders.

“The remainder were deregistered owing to the absence of learner enrolment or their replacement by occupational qualifications. All affected qualifications allowed currently enrolled learners sufficient opportunity to complete their studies,” Manamela said.

Differentiated approach to extension

The Minister said government has adopted a differentiated approach to managing the transition, and they have been categorised to ensure that each is managed according to its level of readiness and its impact on learners and the skills development system.

Category A refers to occupational qualifications that are already registered on the National Qualifications Framework. Because they are not pre-2009 “legacy” qualifications, they do not require gazetting or further enrolment extensions.

“They will continue to be managed through the existing administrative processes of the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), and learners and accredited Skills Development Providers may continue with approved enrolments and delivery,” the Minister said.

Under Category B, which includes pre-2009 qualifications and National Accredited Technical Education Diploma (NATED) programmes, qualifying programmes will receive targeted extensions ranging from six months to 24 months, depending on factors such as learner impact, sector readiness, availability of replacement qualifications, and labour market requirements.

Manamela emphasised that these extensions are not blanket measures, and each qualification has been assessed on its own merits.

“The qualifications approved for extension will be included in the Government Gazette to be published on Monday, 15 June 2026, and the complete list of affected qualifications and their replacement occupational qualifications will also be published on the SAQA website, ensuring public accessibility and transparency,” the Minister said.

Category C, which relates to regulatory unit standards that continue to underpin important statutory and industry programmes, has been granted extensions of up to three years to allow regulators and industries sufficient time to review programme requirements and transition to replacement occupational skills programmes.

The Minister noted that this approach ensures continuity in regulated sectors, while protecting the public interest and avoiding disruption to economic activity.

With respect to trades, which fall under Category C, the position differs depending on the availability of replacement occupational qualifications.

“Where occupational qualifications have already been developed and implemented, no further extension is required. However, for trades where replacement occupational qualifications have not yet been fully developed or implemented, targeted transitional arrangements of approximately one year may be considered to ensure continuity, while development processes are finalised,” the Minister explained.

The SAQA website will comprehensively indicate the qualifications that have received extensions; the applicable duration of each extension; the associated teach-out [an educational arrangement that allows current students to complete their qualifications or degrees, even if an institution closes, restructures or phases out older programs] arrangements where applicable, and corresponding occupational qualifications that will replace the affected pre-2009 qualifications.

To improve implementation and oversight of the transition process, government has established a Technical Task Team mandated to identify and resolve implementation bottlenecks, monitor progress against clear timelines, and ensure that the transition proceeds in a structured and orderly manner.

“It will bring together dedicated workstreams responsible for communications and advocacy; legal and regulatory matters; SETA coordination; data management; assessment to certification; quality assurance; TVET [Technical and Vocational Education Training] rollout of new qualifications; funding norms and standards, and monitoring and evaluation.

“This integrated governance structure will strengthen accountability, improve coordination across institutions and ensure that implementation challenges are addressed proactively,” Manamela said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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South Africa’s growing potential in advanced manufacturing and clean technology took centre stage on Wednesday as Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Alexandra Abrahams visited Cape Town-based battery technology company Balancell.

The visit forms part of government’s efforts to support innovative local businesses, strengthen industrial competitiveness and position South Africa to benefit from emerging global industries.

Balancell designs and manufactures advanced lithium-ion battery systems for the electric mobility, mining and industrial sectors, with its products already being used locally and exported to international markets.

The company is increasingly being recognised as an example of how South African innovation can compete on the global stage while contributing to local economic growth and job creation.

During a tour of the company’s facilities, Abrahams met with management to discuss opportunities to expand production, increase local value addition and unlock new export markets.

Discussions also focused on creating a policy and regulatory environment that supports innovative manufacturers operating in highly competitive global industries.

The engagement explored challenges and opportunities affecting Balancell’s ability to scale operations, commercialise new technologies and attract investment, while identifying measures that could improve the operating environment for high-growth manufacturing firms.

“Balancell represents the kind of innovation and industrial capability that South Africa needs to support and celebrate,” said Abrahams.

“It is encouraging to see a locally developed company producing world-class battery technologies and creating solutions that are finding application both locally and internationally.”

The Deputy Minister said engagements with businesses provide government with valuable insights into the realities faced by South African companies seeking to grow and compete globally.

“One of the most valuable aspects of visits such as these is the opportunity to hear directly from businesses about both their successes and the challenges they encounter. This allows government to better understand where support may be required and how we can work with stakeholders to unlock opportunities for growth and investment,” she said.

Among the issues discussed were the commercialisation of new technologies, access to testing and certification processes, and ways to ensure innovative South African companies can compete effectively in domestic and international markets.

Abrahams welcomed Balancell’s achievements, describing the company as an example of the talent and expertise that exists within South Africa’s manufacturing sector.

“What we have seen today demonstrates that South African companies have the talent, expertise and determination to develop advanced technologies that can compete globally. Balancell’s achievements are a testament to the innovative potential that exists within our economy,” she said.

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition said it will continue engaging with businesses across the country to identify barriers to investment, support enterprise growth and create conditions that enable South African firms to compete successfully in local and international markets.

The engagements form part of government’s broader efforts to accelerate economic growth, attract investment and create sustainable employment opportunities. – SAnews.gov.za

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With just hours to go to the opening match of the FIFA World Cup, Gauteng MEC of Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Lebogang Maile has wished Bafana Bafana well for the tournament.

“Tonight, the hopes and dreams of millions of South Africans will travel across the Atlantic to Mexico City, where our beloved Bafana Bafana will take on the host nation, Mexico, at the iconic Estadio Azteca, with kickoff scheduled for 9pm South African time.

“As Gauteng and the entire country rally behind our national team, we wish Coach Hugo Broos and his squad strength, courage and success as they begin their journey on the world’s biggest football stage,” the MEC said.

He added that the quality and resilience of the squad is a testament to the strength of South African football. Thursday’s game marks exactly 16 years since South Africa, as host nation, opened the first World Cup on African soil against Mexico in Johannesburg.

READ | Bafana Bafana to face Mexico in World Cup opener

The MEC paid tribute to the Premier Soccer League, whose professionalism and competitiveness continue to produce world-class talent as well as the  countless township football coaches, volunteers and community football structures that identified, trained, nurtured and inspired many of the players who now proudly wear the green and gold of the nation.

“As they step onto the famous turf of Estadio Azteca, our players must remember that they carry more than a football badge on their chests — they carry the history, hopes and aspirations of a nation. They follow in the footsteps of the heroes of 1996 Africa Cup of Nations, whose triumph helped unite South Africans in the early years of our democracy and demonstrated the power of sport to bring our people together.”

He added that the tournament comes in the month that South Africa marks the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Soweto Uprising where the country unites to honour the courageous generation which changed the course of history. 

“The youth of 1976 ignited a new consciousness in the struggle for freedom and justice. Bafana Bafana has an opportunity to honour their legacy by displaying the same determination, bravery and patriotism that defined that historic generation. 

“I have every confidence that our national team possesses the talent, discipline and fighting spirit required to overcome any challenge. Let them play with pride, belief and the knowledge that an entire nation stands firmly behind them.

“Go out there, make South Africa proud, and begin this World Cup with a victory worthy of our history and our future,” he said.

Government has called on the nation to rally behind the senior men’s team as they chase World Cup glory. In addition, Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC), Peace Mabe, in partnership with Honor, will join fans and attend the first world cup watch party event at the Mall of Africa tonight. –SAnews.gov.za  

 

 

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Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts has reaffirmed government’s commitment to tackling air pollution, describing clean air as a fundamental human right and calling for stronger collaboration to improve conditions in South Africa’s most polluted regions.

Speaking at a Government-NGO dialogue on air quality in the Highveld Priority Area in Johannesburg on Wednesday, Swarts said air pollution extends far beyond environmental concerns.

“It is a social justice issue. It is a developmental issue. Ultimately, it is a human rights issue,” she said.

Swarts stressed that access to clean air is protected under Section 24 of the Constitution, which guarantees everyone the right to an environment that is not harmful to their health or wellbeing.

“Air quality is not merely an environmental issue; it is a health issue,” she said.

The Deputy Minister said the constitutional right places a shared responsibility on government, industry, civil society and citizens to work together to reduce pollution and improve environmental outcomes.

Her remarks come as communities in the Highveld Priority Area continue to grapple with poor air quality, despite years of interventions aimed at reducing pollution.

The region remains one of South Africa’s most significant air pollution hotspots, with emissions from industrial activities, domestic fuel burning, waste burning and transport continuing to affect residents.

Swarts acknowledged growing concerns from communities and civil society organisations about the impact of pollution and the pace of government’s response.

“We recognise the concerns raised by residents regarding emissions from industrial activities, domestic fuel burning, waste burning, transportation and other pollution sources,” she said.

She also acknowledged calls for greater accountability and transparency in efforts to improve air quality.

“As government, we acknowledge that while progress has been made, much more remains to be done.”

Swarts said the dialogue was intended to move discussions beyond differing viewpoints and towards practical solutions that deliver measurable improvements for communities.

“We have gathered to strengthen collaboration, build trust and identify practical actions that can improve air quality outcomes for communities living in the Highveld Priority Area,” she said.

She highlighted the G20 Cape Town Ministerial Declaration on Air Quality as an important global framework supporting South Africa’s efforts to tackle pollution.

According to Swarts, the declaration elevates clean air to a critical public health, environmental and socio-economic priority, while recognising the disproportionate impact of air pollution on vulnerable communities.

The declaration also promotes stronger air quality monitoring, reliable data, citizen participation, knowledge sharing and cooperation across sectors and spheres of government.

Swarts emphasised that government cannot solve the country’s air pollution challenges alone and called on civil society organisations and communities to remain active partners in finding solutions.

“Communities themselves are often the first to experience the impacts of pollution and therefore must be active participants in decision-making processes,” she said.

She added that addressing air pollution is also about addressing inequality and ensuring that all South Africans can enjoy their constitutional right to a healthy environment.

“Government is committed to strengthening engagement platforms that allow communities and civil society organisations to contribute constructively to environmental decision-making,” Swarts said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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