BY REGINALD KANYANE

NORTH West University in Mafikeng has been shut down indefinitely by protesting students. The students said they were infuriated by Minister of Higher Learning, Dr Blade Nzimande.

Dr Nzimande announced on Monday that universities can increase the fees in the next financial year. However, he highlighted that no university will be allowed to increase its fees by over 8%.

North West University (Mafikeng campus) administration and laboratory buildings were torched during #Feesmustfall campaign in 2015. This forced the university to go on recession for a month. The damages were estimated to the value of R150 million.

The NWU SRC president, Dikago Pule said they want to put pressure on the university council not to increase fees.

“We reject any talks regarding fees increment. We will never budge in our move and we remain defiant. We met with our students and we took a decision. Even though we embrace the need for education to achieve sustainability, only limited progress has been made on any level. This lack of progress stems from many sources.

“Lack of vision or awareness from both universities and government has impeded progress. We have many students who come from poor backgrounds. However, they continue to drop out of universities because of pricey education,” Pule said.

NWU Vice-chancellor, Professor Dan Kgwadi said they will meet with council to discuss way forward regarding fees augmentation. Kgwadi said they have been waiting for an announcement from government.

“We will meet with council after the announcement made by minister of higher education, Dr Blade Nzimande. We are now in a position to go and finalise our budget proposal to council and take it from there,” he said.

The council is expected to meet on Wednesday to discuss way forward.

Outgoing South African Public Protector, Advocate Thuli Madonsela visited the university on Monday to talk about challenges facing higher institutions of learning in South Africa. The lecture was under the theme:  “Prestige Lecture”.

“We have not invested enough in education. This is based on reality that we see. The situation our students are faced with is upheaval. Figures has shown that more students have been accepted in academic institutions, however, there is no enough money that has been invested to cover the new number.

“We urge our students to use their minds to fight social injustice. You must be like Sol Plaatjie who fought the system with his mind. Everyone deserves social justice because it matters. As long as there is injustice somewhere, sustainable peace cannot be experienced anywhere,” she said.

Madonsela further said the difference between the old and new state is that the former would not listen to people. She added that the character of the new state as envisaged in the constitution makes accountability by those exercising public power central while entrenching citizen participation.

“Young persons can fast-track the delivery of the South African dream without violence. If dialogue fails, they can make use of other constitutional avenues such as the Public Protector, the South African Human Rights Commission and Petitions among others. In the 1970s, protestors did not burn down the infrastructure. They knew they were going to need them in the future. When you are disgruntled at home, you do not set alight the house because you will need it for shelter.

“Regarding #Feesmustfall campaign, I believe fees must fall for only those who cannot afford. Otherwise resources meant for the disadvantaged will be lost to those that were historically advantaged. This will also benefit those who are well off due to the fruits of democracy,” Madonsela said.

She also called for the implementation of Chapter 5 of the Equality Act. Madonsela said the act explain that the Promotion of Equality Act has two dimensions. However, she said only one of these has been implemented thus undermining its impact on addressing apartheid disparities including academic injustice.

“The constitution promises an improved quality of life for all and a freed potential to each person. Young leaders have the power to make a difference as they carry the dreams and hopes of our people. We need more innovative young people such as Ludwick Marishane who invented the DryBath and Nkosana Makate who came up with “Please Call Me”.

“We also need our own Marxs and Platos to generate new ideologies and philosophies to help us address today’s problems. The Equality Act provides a systematic mechanism for addressing apartheid, patriarchal and disability disparities. So, without a systematic approach to structural inequality, social justice is a pipe dream,” she said.

Minister Dr Blade Nzimande said: “Our public universities are a significant national asset. They empower the next generation with skills and knowledge. They also contribute significantly to the ability of our economy to compete globally through innovative and appropriate research.

“Our universities currently face serious challenges in terms of funding. At the same time, large numbers of South Africans are currently finding it difficult to access post-school education because of the financial challenges they as individuals or as families face. Government is aware of these challenges and takes them very seriously.

“Indeed, government remains firmly committed to progressively realise free post-school education for the poor and working class, as called for by our constitution, and to assist middle class families who are unable to pay.”

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BY REGINALD KANYANE

EDUCATION is the only unique way to end poverty. Bokamoso Innovation Hub founder, Lesego Serolong said they will continue to empower the youths who were deprived.

Serolong said they offering many students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds across Dr Ruth Mompati district, bursaries to further their studies at tertiary level.

“We have a project called Raising The Children which supports mostly child headed families and orphans. We have assisted more than 30 students so far and some of them have already graduated. In order to end poverty, we must empower youths and women to transform their lives.

“Education is very critical and we always encourage our youths to take it seriously. We are now working together with North West premier’s wife, Kule Mahumapelo to unlock young minds. We do this through business training and mentorship,” Serolong said.

She was born in Choseng village, Taung and studied in United Kingdom. Serolong said she decided to come back to South Africa to assist in eradicating poverty.

“We have visited various areas across North West and realised how women continue to carry the burden of poverty. For women to successfully move out of poverty, they need confidence and business skills. Our model allows them to leave poverty behind for good.

“We have decided to create food gardens for the youths and women. This will creates dignity, ownership and self-sufficiency. Turning women and youths into entrepreneurs creates a lasting opportunities for them to lift their families out of poverty,” she said.

Serolong and Mahumapelo visited Moretele local municipality last week. She said they are now doing research and feasibility study about the life-style of the youths and women in that area.

“We will be working in partnership with Moretele chief to come up with strategic plans to assist the youths there. We also urge all stakeholders to come on board. It is important for the society to take care of the youths and women. We need to use education as a tool to fight poverty, unemployment and inequality.

“We also encourage the society to take care of the most vulnerable group which is our elderly persons. It is hard nowadays to find young people be committed to take care of aging persons. We are committed in improving the lives of our grandparents. We visited the far-flung areas were grandparents are living in abject poverty,” Serolong said.

North West province first lady, Kule Mahumapelo shared the same sentiments. Mahumapelo said they met with Serolong and now they are working together.

“Serolong is dedicated human being in assisting the youths. She has a food garden in Manyeledi village in Ganyesa and employed many people. She also offered bursaries to underprivileged children.  We need to take a stand and encourage the youths to make progress with their lives.

“We also visited Zambia few months ago with her. We were touched how life turned out to be for youths and women in that country. So we will be going back in November to donate clothes. We are also working together in building an old age home at Moretele local municipality,” Mahumapelo said.

Thato Marope who is a bursary scheme beneficiary said he is studying Mathematics at Rhodes University. Marope said Serolong played a pivotal role in his life.

“I am an orphan and having people like Lesego Serolong and Kule Mahumapelo is breath-taking. I highly-appreciate the opportunity and believe that many people will also benefit from this project. I want to assist in bringing opportunities to other disadvantaged communities. I need to take part in promoting development at schools.

Another beneficiary, Qoliswa Mgwabe said: “I also encourage the matriculants to apply to various institutions and I assist them with career guidance. We have introduced tutoring and mentorship programs at few schools to assist other during recession.”

Moretele chief, Kgosi Jacob Mathibe lauded the initiative. Mathibe added that many youths were embedded with many form of abuse.

“We have challenges where youths engaged in crime, alcohol and drug abuse. We need to make sure that we fight that. They need to be taught how to change the lives for the better,” he said.

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BY REGINALD KANYANE

MEC for community safety and transport management, Dr Mpho Motlhabane said they aimed to change learners’ attitude towards road safety. Motlhabane said they will embark on educational flagship programme.

“Our programme is targeting Grade 10 and 11 pupils. We will host the Participatory Education Techniques (PET) at Barolong Boo Raa Tshidi Community Hall on Friday. We aim at changing learners’ attitude towards road safety issues. The purpose of this is to encourage pupils to be aware of road safety challenges in their community.

“Teaching pupils to take responsibilities regarding road safety is key. We urge the communities also to take part. This will enhance pupils to present good communication and listening skills. They will also participate in a practical presentation session,” Motlhabane said.

He further said they were touched by the losses of innocent lives of pupils on the roads. Motlhabane added that the safety of pupils was a priority.

“We need to create safe and secure environment includes while the pupils are ferried to and from various schools. We are working in partnership with education and sport development department to address this matter,” he said.

North West education and sport development department spokesperson, Elias Malindi said: “Our curriculum on Life Orientation has a chapter where pupils are taught about road safety. We have also partnered with SANRAL where pupils participate in safety education.

“This also allows schools to source based material on safety. We also working together with community safety and transport management department and established scholar patrol teams. Participative Education Technique will assist in curbing the carnage.”

He also added they have introduced a learner’s license project at high schools. Malindi said pupils at high schools are introduced to driving lesson skills so that they can be better road users.

“Road safety measures are introduced to all users, pedestrians, cyclists and motorists. Our detailed presentation is also introduced to School Governing Bodies (SGB), parents, LRC learners, teachers and all stakeholders,” he said.

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BY REGINALD KANYANE

NORTH West Premier Supra Mahumapelo has reacted with shock to the news about the passing on of Nkalakatha hitmaker, Mduduzi Edmund Tshabalala who was affectionately known as Mandoza.

Mahumapelo conveyed his heartfelt condolences to Mandoza’s bereaved family, friends and the South African music fraternity.

It was reported that Mandoza passed on as he was taken to the hospital on Sunday.

“The demise of Mandoza represents a loss to the music industry. He will always be remembered for his ability to unite different race groups in song across the country,” Mahumapelo said.

He further called on South Africans to celebrate a talented life well lived.

“May Mandoza’s family, friends and fans draw strength on the knowledge that he continued to love his trade even during his sickness as demonstrated through his performance at the recently held Thank You SABC concert at Orlando stadium in Soweto,” Mahumapelo said.

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Picture: (Nomthandazo Talakase,4, who was found dead, mutilated in Vryburg)

BY REGINALD KANYANE

A Family of Talakase in Huhudi location, near Vryburg was left crestfallen after the death of their daughter. Nomthandazo Talakase, 4 went missing for a week and her mutilated body was found by a hunter on Monday.

North West police spokesperson, Col Sabata Mokgwabone said police in Huhudi are investigating a case of murder. Mokgwabone said Nomthandazo Talakase’s body was found in the bushes near Monotomosetlha Informal Settlement in Huhudi location, Vryburg.

“The body was discovered by a boy who was hunting. He then alerted his elders who informed the police. Upon arrival at the scene, the police found the body with a missing left hand. No one has been arrested and investigation into the matter continues,” he said.

Provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane condemned the incident. She urged tranquility amongst the community and requested them to work in cooperation with the police.

“We will ensure that anyone who is behind this evil deed is exposed and arrested. The police urge members of the community to come forward with information that may lead to the arrest of the suspect by calling Detective Captain Thomas Mbandulula on 082 443 8704,” she said.

Nomthandazo’s mother, Refilwe Talakase, 22 said: “My daughter’s death left a void in our heart. I cannot believe that she is gone. We are going through a rough time and we hope the perpetrator/s will be arrested soon.

“She was found by a hunter in the veld on Monday. What surprises me is that, we searched that area while looking for her during the week, but today she was found there,” Talakase said.

ANCWL in North West said they hope the police will work around the clock to apprehend the perpetrator/s. ANCWL provincial secretary, Bridgette Magakwe said: “We are very disappointed on how Nomthandazo’s situation turned out. We want to send a stern warning to all perpetrators out there. Enough is enough and we also urge community members to work together with the police to expose those who did this.

“We also call on all stakeholders to take part in ensuring the safety of our children. Government cannot win this fight alone. A child is raise by a village, so we need to work together. It is so disappointing that we had awareness campaigns across the country last month, but children’s lives continue to be valued less,” Bridgette Magakwe said.

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Picture: MEC Sello Lehari

BY REGINALD KANYANE

MEC for education and sport development department, Jonas Sello Lehari will hold a media briefing session regarding last push revision programme and progress made in preparing for year-end examinations.

The briefing session will be held at Batlhaping High School, Lokaleng village, in Greater Taung on Friday at 9am.

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BY REGINALD KANYANE

MEC for community safety and transport management, Dr Mpho Mokgantshang Motlhabane honoured fallen police heroes in the North West. The event was held at the SAPS Provincial Head Office in Potchefstroom on Sunday.

Motlhabane said the commemoration is annually. He further said the four heroes, Warrant Officer Mathe, Sergeant Jonathan, Constable Mokotedi and Constable Tlhoale died while on duty during 2015/16 financial year.

“We are very concern about the increase on police killings across the country. As government, we condemn the police killings and we are committed to support the hard working police who continue to put their lives in danger to protect us. We also convey message of condolences to the families of the four officers.

“May their souls rest in peace and to the bereaved families, may almighty be with you. May you all find comfort in the knowledge that millions of us truly value your loved ones. We highly-appreciated the service rendered with distinction to the nation,” he said.

The North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane pleaded with the communities to assist in fighting crime.

“We urge you to join us in the fight against crime. However, most importantly, let us try and reduce the number of officers losing their lives at the hands of criminals.  Support and unite with us as we face difficult situation daily. Let us ensure that our communities are safe.

“We also urge police to practice safety measures at all times. September is a Police Safety Month and I would like to call upon all of us to adhere to safety measures. Be alert and vigilant of any circumstances around you while on duty. Let us adhere to our SAPS Standing Orders and National Instructions pertaining to safety. Safety begins with you,” Motswenyane concluded.

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TMG Entertainment has on Sunday afternoon learnt that Kwaito legend Mandoza has died.

Two independent sources has verified the news to TMG Entertainment‚ however the musician’s family have not yet officially confirmed the news.

TMG Entertainment contacted Mandoza’s wife‚ Mpho‚ however a family member answered her cellphone.

“Have a heart. Think of it as a rumour until the family confirm‚” said the person before hanging up.

News of the musician’s death has also sent shockwaves through social media after SABC News digital producer Sthembiso Sithole tweeted the news.

Sithole stated in a series of tweets that he is currently at family home in Soweto with a relative.

“That moment when you are close to a situation but you can’t report about it due to the fact that one of your close friends is a relative‚” Sithole tweeted.

Sithole went on to break the news to fans on social media. “Breaking news: Legendary kwaito musician Mandoza has passed away.”

Sithole added that he would report on full details after family members had been informed.

“I will only be able to give full details after family members have been informed. In a awkward situation.”

Mandoza’s family have not yet issued an official statement.

It emerged last week that the Nkalakatha hitmaker has been suffering from a renewed cancer scare after doctors discovered a tumour in his brain.

In a statement released by his family at the time‚ it emerged that he had been fighting for his life after the cancer “metastasized to his brain.”

However‚ a few days later his family confirmed that he was in a serious yet stable condition. Despite his ailing condition Mandoza made an appearance at the controversial Thank You SABC concert last weekend.

Source: http://www.timeslive.co.z
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Brace yourself for a thrilling second leg of the CAF Champions League as Mamelodi Sundowns have all to play for on Saturday night.

This after going down 2-1 to determined Zambian side Zesco United yesterday.

But Khama Billiat’s away goal could be a determining factor in the second leg as a 1-0 victory would take the Brazilians to the final.

But they will need to be clinical in front of goals as yesterday’s performance was not too convincing, particularly with the absence of Colombian striker Leonardo Castro, who is out with an ankle injury.

It took two quick goals from 29-year-old Jackson Mwanza to make a mess of Sundowns’ dreams of reaching the final.

The Zesco United striker was a marvel to watch for 90 minutes as Team Yaziko (Team of the Nation) shocked the Brazilians in the first leg of their semifinal at a partially packed Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, Zambia, yesterday.

Mwanza’s silky moves, combined with a very dangerous Jesse Were, were a marvel to watch as the 20 000-plus crowd spurred on their team in the Copper Belt mining town – a 30-minute flight away from Lusaka.

It was heartbreaking to watch how Zesco, the reigning Zambia Premier League champions, made a mockery of Downs, who came to this match exhausted after playing two matches (MTN and league) over the past five days.

There was a comedy of errors at the back where Tebogo Langerman was used as a thoroughfare to Denis Onyango’s goalposts, however Thabo Nthethe with Wayne Arendse – who joined his team-mates on Friday night after his wife gave birth to a baby boy – came in handy for Pitso Mosimane’s charges.

Arendse had to swap positions with Nthethe to contain the speedy, clinical and skilful Were, who was running around the man known as “Mr Cool” and couldn’t handle the pocket-sized creative player.

Just as Mosimane thought he had controlled the situation on the other side of the field where they were lacking, Zesco’s toast of the day, Mwanza, came in. He was as troublesome as Were, but Onyango was having a better day and thwarted most of their efforts. That was in the first half.

The scoreline could have been worse if Zesco had Cletus Chama, who was suspended, on the field.

It was never going to be easy for Downs considering that Team Yaziko have gone unbeaten in six Champions League matches this year, having defeated teams such as Egypt’s Al Ahly in the process.

It has been 26 years since a Zambian team reached the last four in this tough-as-teak competition – the Nkana Red Devils lost 5-4 on penalties to JS Kabylie in 1990, when the competition was still known as the African Cup of Champions. Indications are that they are ready to reach the final and even win it.

The winner of this two-legged semifinal will probably meet Egyptian giants Zamalek, who defeated Wydad Casablanca 4-0 in the first leg of their semifinal on Friday.

The second leg of this competition will be played at Atteridgeville’s Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday, when Downs will host Zesco with the hope of turning yesterday’s scoreline around.

The home side will have to put up a brave fight if they are to book a place in the final as Zesco will be buoyed by yesterday’s result. However, Billiat’s crucial away goal could make all the difference on Saturday.

Zesco coach George Lwandamina was relieved of his duties as national team coach (Chipolopolo) after he failed to get them to qualify for the 2017 Caf Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Gabon in January.

Lwandamina relied on Kondwani Mtonga and Misheck Chaila, who nearly punched the final nail into Downs’ coffin in the dying minutes of the clash, but they missed and Onyango was also up to the task.

So relaxed was Lwandamina that he pulled out his hero of the day, Mwanza, in the 72nd minute for Idris Mbombo, who also added oomph onto their attack.

Source: http://www.sport24.com

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After a stumbling start to the season, Kaizer Chiefscoach Steve Komphela is looking to make a statement when his team host Platinum Stars in a Premiership match at the FNB Stadium on Wednesday night.

Chiefs lost their opening league match to Bidvest Wits and also went down to Cape Town City in the MTN8.

Komphela feels it is now important that his side bounce back.

“Apart from this being the first home game, it is our second league match of the season,” he told the club’s website. “At some point, we have to send a strong message to the opponents.”

Having been out of action for the international break, Komphela admits there is always the concern that players may not be as sharp as they should be, but says this is not an excuse.

“You will never know where you exactly stand until you go through the match,” he said. 

“You don’t want to come up with excuses because all the teams went through the same period. We must just guard that the break won’t affect us negatively. 

“We saw them (Stars) play against Chippa (in the MTN8. When teams play us, they often look different. It is a known fact, as they will be playing Chiefs tomorrow. There will be that individual desire to play at a big stage. For most teams, this is an important date in the fixtures calendar.

“We have a few niggling injuries,” he explained. “The medical team will give us an indication on Emmanuel Letlotlo, but Keagan Buchanan will not be rushed to play in this one.”

Last season Platinum Stars were too good for Chiefs, winning 2-1 away and 2-0 at home in the league.Source: http://www.sabc.co.za