By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

It is all systems go as more than 42 000 learners commenced with their final basic education examinations on Wednesday. North West MEC for Education, Wendy Matsemela who visited Pinagare High School in Taung, said her department has prepared 439 centres that have been audited for compliance in terms of facility, staff capacity security for storage of question papers as well as full adherence for Covid-19 protocols.

“Of these centres, 417 are public centres, 20 are independent and 2 designated centres for those improving their matric. Printing and packaging is done under very secure conditions with surveillance cameras and physical security at all strategic points.

“Security point for question papers is intensified with strong rooms, double locking systems, 24-hour Security guards, storage managers, alarm system, CCTV monitoring. Training for monitors, chief invigilators and invigilators was rigorous and this contributes to the successful administration of the examinations,” Matsemela said.

She further said two to three officials per school are trained to ensure smooth running of the examinations in the centre. Matsemela added that the training includes protocol for writing of the examination, process of conduct of examination, reporting on the conduct of the examination, and process to be followed at the distribution point.

“Markers have been selected and are awaiting appointment. We want to assure that all measures were considered to prepare the 2021 cohort. Covid-19 has been a disruptor in the administration of year end examinations in 2020.

“The class of 2021 found us ready and we equipped learners with much needed assistance to sit for their examinations. We have a set of committed teachers, and subject advisors that played a huge role in equipping our learners and I couldn’t be more proud,” said Matsemela.

Last week, she had an engagement with learners as they signed the pledge of commitment to a cheat-free examination. Matsemela said learners were eager and ready as the eighth cohort to be exposed to the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS).

“Learners are also the beneficiaries of the educational transformation that heralded the move towards a technologically enhanced curriculum. We were monitoring the first day of examinations at Pinagare Secondary School in Taung,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education, Bongiwe Mbinqo-Gigaba said: “I would like to wish all candidates the best of luck with their final examinations. I urge them to continue working hard and to keep their focus.

“I know it has been a challenging few years since your schooling was disrupted due to Covid-19 in 2020, but I am sure you have the support of the whole country. It has truly been a catch-up year for this cohort.”

She said it was a very strenuous academic year and called on parents, family, friends, educators, officials and the community at large to help create the best conditions and environment for these learners to study.

The South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) in the North West shared the same sentiments.

SANCO Provincial Chairperson, Paul Sebegoe said they wish all matriculants well in their exams and appealed for support.

“We also call for no disruption of the examination programme. As the civic movement, we express concern about Eskom load-shedding, which it characterised as a disruptive and very suspect programme.

 “However, we wish all learners who will be sitting for their examinations the very best and urge them to stay focused and not to be distracted from the task at hand. The sacrifices and extra effort they have had to put to prepare for the exams throughout the year under very trying Covid-19 conditions must be jealously guarded so that they achieve their objective to pursue their dreams,” he said.

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By REGINALD KANYANE

Banyana Banyana showed pedigree when they walloped Mozambique 13-0 during the second leg of the African Women’s Cup of Nations qualifier at FNB stadium in Johannesburg on Tuesday.

Even though Banyana Banyana displayed enterprising football, their coach, Desiree Ellis believes ‘there is still room for improvement’ for her side despite the victory.

Ellis said: “I don’t think we executed the plan well. I think we played much better in Mozambique than here. Our movement of the ball today was very static and in that way, we ended up playing long balls which did not work for us.

“Again we created a lot of chances but we were not clinical enough in front of goal. The match also saw rising goalkeeper, Regirl Ngobeni get her senior debut. It is always good to give someone a debut.”  

Ellis further said it was a good debut for Ngobeni as she got a clean sheet and that can only give her a lot of confidence going forward. She added that Ngobeni can only go forward and build from this cap.

“We were motivated not only by the 7-0 victory that we got in the first leg, but I guess our players were also motivated by the stadium that they played at as well as family members who were in attendance,” said Ellis.

Meanwhile, Banyana Banyana’s goal came as early as the 10^th minute through defender Bambanani Mbane who slotted past Mozambique goalkeeper, Eva Jose Costa. Mbane’s goal opened the floodgate as Linda Motlhaloto who played her 50^th game for Banyana Banyana banged in a brace.

A maestro player, Hildah Magaia also added her name to the score-sheet with a brace. A rising star, Sibulele Holweni’s 85^th minute goal was enough to seal a victory for Banyana Banyana to end a year on a high. The win also brought them a few steps closer to Morocco 2022.

Ellis’ side will get some rest from national team duty after back-to-back camps since the Buhari Cup in September 2021. The team will return to action in February 2022 to prepare for the second round of AWCON qualifiers.

Ellis wished her players well as they returned to their respective clubs and encouraged them to stay fit and work hard especially with the fast approaching festive season.

South Africa ……(3) 6 (Bambanani Mbane 9’, Linda Motlhalo 32’, 65’, Hildah Magaia 40’, 50’, Sibulele Holweni 85’)

Mozambique…..(0) 0

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

North West Premier, Bushy Maape said the tar road that links Gopane and Lobatleng villages near Zeerust will stimulate socio-economic development. Maape along with North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Gaoage Molapisi handed over a 12.3km tar road to the community on Wednesday.

“The road has been given a face lift and we have already completed phase 1 of the project, which includes a low level bridge. This project will stimulate socio-economic development in the area.

“Apart from stimulating local economic development, in the longer term, the upgrading project will provide 50 job opportunities in the area. The 30% of the total value of the project will benefit small businesses and sub-contractors,” he said.  

Maape further said the second phase of the project, which stretches from Gopane to Motswedi will link thirteen villages. He added that this will enable residents to access public facilities such as schools, health facilities and other critical social amenities.

“We are now commencing with Phase 2, which is the upgrading of a 12 kilometre, which will include roadside fencing and road signs markings. The project is expected to be completed over a period of twelve months.

“Government has thus far completed twenty four road construction projects in the province linking many rural communities with the commercial hubs of the province,” said Maape.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

Bakwena Ba Metsi A Pula Football Club coach, Mosimanegape Phutiyagae was over the moon after his team won R8000 in a Top 8 finals in Manthe village, near Taung on Sunday. The Amalia-based football club walloped the organisers, Queenspark Rangers 2-1 in a thriller.

Phutiyage said they fought like warriors after trailing 1-0 before half-time, but came back strongly and eventually scored a winning goal.

“We are happy to win this tournament and this shows that without discipline, dedication and determination we could not achieve this victory. Our players showed pedigree and the hunger to win.

“We wanted it more than anyone, that is why we fought like wounded lions even though our backs were against the wall in the first half. I also want to applaud all teams that participated in this tournament because they brought their A-game,” he said.

Phutiyagae further said he did not panic even though they were trailing before half-time, but capitalised on Queenspark Rangers FC mistakes. He added that the host had ‘no strategy’ especially in the second stanza as they played aerial balls.  

“We came back strongly after half-time and turned the game into our favour. We played with confidence and knocked the ball around. I realised that we can win the game after getting an equaliser.

“After scoring an equaliser, we took the game to them and matched them pound for pound. Queenspark Rangers FC is a great team, but they lacked concentration. However, I would like to applaud their coach after showing a good recital,” said Phutiyagae.

Meanwhile, the Queenspark Rangers FC coach, Obakeng ‘Prosto’ Mogabale said: “This is part of football and our players did not show any hunger during the second half. We showed lack of concentration and we lost the game. Our players relapsed during the most crucial time and gave the ball away easily.

“However, we will go back to the drawing board and try to rectify our mistakes and prepare for our next game. Our goalkeeper, Katlego ‘Makgasa’ Tikane was also not on top of his game during the finals. He was awkward at times and applied delaying tactics.”

Mogabale said Tikane’s lacklustre performance assisted their opponents to come back into the game.

“They came back strongly and managed to equalise before scoring a winning goal from a free kick. I personally spoke to our goalkeeper, but he let his emotions shadow his judgement. He is a great goalie, but what happened was unfortunate.

“We are now looking forward to our next game this coming weekend. I also want to applaud everyone who took part in this tournament because grassroots football always encourages players to improve their football skills whilst having fun,” said Mogabale.

He further said these kinds of tournaments help players to develop their talents and confidence. Mogabale said their aim is to see their players competing with the best in the elite leagues regardless of where they come from.

Bakwena Ba Metsi A Pula FC player, Lebogang ‘Maestro’ Phutiyagae (21) who scored a winning goal said: “I am very grateful for winning this tournament because we came all the way from Amalia to participate in this tournament.

“It was encouraging to see our players showing a pedigree and playing with confidence even though chips were down. I am over the moon and I wish my dream can come true as I would like to see myself playing in the elite league one day.”

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By OBAKENG MAJE

A local author and social activist, Nana Shuping encouraged women to go and test for breast cancer. Shuping, who organised the Breast Cancer and Mental Awareness Fun Walk, said the disease is more prevalent.

The Breast Cancer Awareness Fun Walk commenced from Taung Depot to Mmabana Taung on 23 October 2021.

“I came up with this initiative in 2019, but unfortunately we could not continue with it because of COVID-19 pandemic. I met with Tumisang Keokame from Nature’s Lab and we organised this event just to bring awareness.

“Many households are affected by cancer and I have also lost loved ones due to cancer. I have also realised that many people do not undergo testing and sometimes they find out while it is already late that they are diagnosed with cancer,” she said.

Shuping further said the early detection reduces cancer fatalities.

“I have a friend who unfortunately had her breast removed due to cancer. She always encourages us to undergo testing and not to take it lightly. There are so many challenges women go through including abuse.

“I have also written a book titled: Misunderstood as I was also raped by a friend’s uncle at the age of 10. I experienced abuse during my marriage, so women go through a lot. My book will be launched on 11 December 2021,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Breast Health Foundation navigator, Ouma Mamatela shared the same sentiments. Mamatela calls on the government to work together with NGOs as many women especially from rural areas could not access medical attention on time.

“I’ll say we are doing our best, but mainly the patients who are doing radiation were battling for three months because the machine sets at Charlotte Maxeke Hospital in Johannesburg were broken.

“I think the government should be in negotiations with NGOs because if you are speaking to the NGOs, you are speaking to the patients themselves. The NGOs will be able to provide information on how patients are struggling to get the treatment,” she said.

Mamatela further said there is no definite symptom which means that you definitely have breast cancer. She added that most of the symptoms which are related to breast cancer are also present with non-cancer problems, so it is important not to panic if you develop a problem but to ensure you get it checked out.

“Most Breast Cancer presents as a lump in the breast. Often women are surprised by the unexpected appearance of a lump and are unsure whether to get it investigated. No matter how sudden or how the lump feels, it is very important to see your doctor.

“Cancer lumps often feel hard and craggy and grow steadily in the breast. Eventually the cancer will spread to the lymph glands causing hard lumps to be felt under the arm too. Approximately 10% of breast cancers present without a lump, and in fact when you do feel a lump in your breast, around 80-85% of those are benign,” said Mamatela.

She said most lumps felt in the breast are not cancers but might be cysts or masses known as fibroadenomas. Mamatela said no matter how sudden or how the lump feels, it is very important to see your doctor.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

A female learner from Batlhaping High School in Taung who was seen in a video confronting a fellow learner and proudly declaring that she is sexually active is in ‘hot water.’ According to our source, the female learner who could not be named because of her age, is ‘facing a disciplinary hearing’ for allegedly putting the school into disrepute.   

However, the North West Department of Education spokesperson, Elias Malindi who tried to downplay the incident could not shed more light on whether the alleged learner has been suspended or not.

Malindi said there are measures to deal with sexuality matters at the school.

“Our Life Orientation teachers do have sessions in which they integrate these issues within their lessons. Girl learners have sessions with female teachers once a term where at the assembly they are advised on how to handle peer pressure and deal with adolescent behavior and social challenges.                      

“Once a semester, health officials visit the school to speak with girls on issues of peer pressure and how to handle themselves during poverty stages. The school collaborates with health and social development in addressing learners on the issues of sexuality,” he said.       

He further said the psycho-social support officials like Zolile Walter Sikhosana visits the school more often to assist to activate the efficacy of the SBST.

North West Department of Health spokesperson, Tebogo Lekgethwane said they are working hand-in-hand with the Department of Education to address health and sexual education in schools across the province.

“The department’s approach to sexual education is championed by the National Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Framework Strategy 2014-2019 and the Integrated School Health Policy.

“The School Health Policy by itself allows the department access to schools for health education on various issues including sexual health. The issue of curriculum needs to be addressed specifically with the Department of Education,” he said.

Lekgethwane further said the Department of Health teaches learners about the risk of being infected by sexual-related diseases like STDs, HIV and teenage pregnancy. He said this is championed through the Schools Health Programme.

Meanwhile, it was reported that 82 000 learners between the ages of 14 and 19 have fallen pregnant in 2017 alone across the country.

Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga said South Africa is pinning its hopes on a social and behaviour change campaign to curb early and unplanned teen pregnancies.

“The campaign is driven by multiple factors which include poverty, lack of information and access to reproductive health services, cultural norms, peer pressure, sexual coercion and abuse.

“Teen pregnancy impacts negatively on educational opportunities and the achievement of adolescents – a situation South Africa can ill afford, given the tough economic climate domestically and abroad,” Motshekga said.

She said in South Africa, it is reported that up to one-third of young girls who fall pregnant drop out of school. Motshekga further said teens that become pregnant are at a greater risk for health complications and face a host of challenges to remaining in school and achieving educational milestones.  

“Unfortunately, this scourge disproportionately affects girls from lower socio-economic communities, thus adding on their burden. The factors that influence teen birth rates are dynamic and hotly debated, as is the appropriate response by the education sector to educating teens who become pregnant and teen mothers.

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By STAFF REPORTER

The Forum 4 Service Delivery (F4SD) president, Mbahare Kekana said he is adamant that his party will perform well during the 2021 Local Elections (LGE). Kekana, who embarked on a trail of election campaigns across the country, recently welcomed over 400 ANC members in Zeerust who defected to his party.

“We say statistics and numbers do not lie. We welcome those who found a political home here into F4SD. So, let’s work hard and ensure that we remove the old tired political party from power.

“Through devoting your vote to the F4SD, we will be able to bring a better future with committed servants who are ready to serve our South African communities. Be the change that you wish to see in your community,” he said.

In 2016 LGE, the statistics has proven that F4SD became the 4^th biggest political party in the North West Province. Kekana further said they have amassed 55 202 votes and won 29 proportional Representative (PR) Council seats.

“We focused on challenges that are facing our municipalities today which we wish to address them as the upcoming political party that is dedicated to serve with dignity in all municipalities we are elected in.

“Lack of providing our people with adequate service delivery which include proper nutrition, water and sanitation, electricity, proper healthcare services facing South African communities are found in the areas of service delivery, unemployment, economic challenges and that there is very little capacity for social development programs,” said Kekana.

He further said they have seen through reports of the Auditor General (AG) on the wasteful, fruitless expenditure of municipalities with some placed under section 100. Kekana added the use of consultants also cost municipalities millions of rands.

“Another challenge is political deployment on senior official positions with no relevant qualifications in municipalities. There is a lack of management of funds such as Municipal Infrastructure Grants (MIG) meant to inter-grade the lives of communities.

“Most municipalities experience bad audit outcomes and collapse of local government finances through corruption, mismanagement and maladministration against politicians and senior officials,” said Kekana.

He said most municipalities are in disarray because there is lack of accountability and consequence management on senior officials who fail to adhere and to subscribe to the PMFA.

“Our country is very rich, but despite South Africa’s middle-income status, half of its citizens lack adequate nutrition, water, energy, shelter, and health-care and quality education. The system is more than creaking under the strain because of the red tapes that are preventing small businesses to emerge and flourish.

“We are in what has to be called a crisis and we need a comprehensive review of social care which doesn’t just look at funding, but also asks how the funding model and levels will address poverty, unemployment and the growing economy in our communities,” he said.

Kekana said many municipalities are given powers to pass their own legislation in the form of by-laws and those powers should be used to remove red tapes which prevent residents from participating in the country’s informal economy, which is currently in the hands of the foreigners.

Meanwhile, ANC North West IPC spokesperson, Kenny Morolong said logically as the organisation, they are expected to terminate the memberships of those members and remove them as ANC representative councillors. He said ANC is dealing with this matter and will make public announcements in due course.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

Lazarus Mosimane (49) from Ganyesa village near Vryburg said a family feud has driven him into depression. Mosimane said a fight over family properties is taking toll on him and he wants closure.

According to information, Lazarus and Isaac Mosimane (55) who are biological brothers are fighting over 20 supermarkets.

“I am crestfallen after my brother refused to hand over my 20 shops and continue making strategies against me. He wants to rob me my properties that I registered under his name. Back in the days during apartheid, I acquired stands and built 15 supermarkets in Ganyesa village and 5 in Morokweng village respectively.

“However, I made a costly mistake by registering all those businesses under my brother’s name because I trusted him. He said I should register those businesses under him as he had a book of life and working for government,” he said.

Mosimane said they agreed to lease all those properties to foreign businesspersons and let them pay rent every month. However, he said things took a nasty turn back in 2012, when he requested his brother to sign over those properties back to him.

“He blatantly refused to sign my properties back to me. He only tabled an offer of R100 000 to buy me out. However, I refused because these shops make a turnover of R120 000 per month.  

“There was a memorandum of understanding (MoU) but he refuses to recognise it. He had now connived with a local magistrate and opened protection orders against me to threaten me. He also pointed me with a firearm and I fear for my life,” said Mosimane.

He said he had opened two cases against his brother (Protection order case and Pointing of a firearm). Mosimane said he went through depression after losing all his hard-work to his ‘ungrateful’ brother, Isaac.

“I am now taking medication because of depression. The situation is too bad that we not even in good terms. He also took away my mother and I have not seen her in nine years,” said Mosimane.

North West police spokesperson, Capt Aafje Botma said: “We can confirm that a case of contravention of a protection order and pointing of a firearm were opened against Isaac Mosimane at Ganyesa Police Station.

“The suspect was arrested for the contravention of a protection order. In both cases, it is the same complainant and the same suspect who are brother and allegedly fighting over family businesses. The pointing of the firearm case was not placed on the court roll since the witness statement needs to be retaken and the contravention of the protection order case is still in court.”

The case was postponed until 19 November 2021.

Meanwhile, Isaac Mosimane refused to comment on the saga as he said the matter is still prejudice.

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