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‘Accident exposes deed scholar transport failures’

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Picture: Learners involved in an accident/Screengrab

By BAKANG MOKOTO

17 February 2026- The North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management has expressed serious concern following the recent school bus accident involving learners in Coligny, noting that the incident reflects deeper systemic failures within the province’s scholar transport system. The committee said it notes the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management’s  briefing last week, following the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) report and its assurances regarding inspections, monitoring and enforcement.

The Chairperson of North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management, Freddy Sonakile said, however, the committee’s own oversight visit conducted two weeks ago in the Dr Ruth Mompati District, revealed unroadworthy vehicles, weak operational controls and troubling gaps in accountability. Sonakile stated that the accident must be treated as a warning sign rather than an isolated incident.

“This accident is not an isolated event. It confirms what the committee witnessed during oversight, that the rot in the scholar transport system runs deep and requires urgent structural correction. The committee further raised concern that some findings during oversight point to possible departmental complicity in irregular practices, adding that any conduct of a criminal nature must be investigated and acted upon without delay.

“In this context, the committee supports the department’s intention to terminate and restart the current scholar transport contract, but stresses that a simple change of operators will not be sufficient. We cannot solve a systemic safety problem by merely changing contractors. The entire contracting model, monitoring framework and accountability chain must be rebuilt to place learner safety at the centre,” he said.

Sonakile further said the committee emphasised that any new Service Level Agreements must include a mandatory vetting of operators, subcontractors and all drivers, proper regulation of driver working conditions to prevent unsafe practices and uniform provincial safety and operational standards. He added that this includes strict departmental adherence to payment schedules, regular and independently verified roadworthy testing and automatic contract revocation for non-roadworthy vehicles.

“There should be penalties for school principals or officials who authorise transport, despite known non-compliance. Learner transport is not just another government service, but is about the safety of children. Where vehicles are unsafe, contracts must fall.

“Where officials ignore non-compliance, accountability must follow. The committee will continue exercising strict oversight over the department and all corrective processes to ensure that the scholar transport system is restored to a safe, lawful and fully accountable standard,” said Sonakile.

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Multilingualism makes NWU distinctive

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Picture: North West University (NWU) Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof Linda du Plessis/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

17 February 2026 – North West University (NWU) Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof Linda du Plessis said the term ‘multilingualism’ can often be used as window-dressing to obscure a lack of commitment to their national inclusivity. Du Plessis said, however, proclaiming a commitment to multilingualism is very different from being an active participant in the promotion of multilingualism.

According to du Plessis, it is imperative that South Africa’s higher education institutions realise that multilingualism is more than policy compliance. She said it is a critical life skill in an interconnected, multicultural and digitally driven world.

“To study in a multilingual environment equips students and staff with adaptability, cultural intelligence, empathy, and cognitive flexibility. It nurtures the ability to engage across differences, which is a competency increasingly demanded in workplaces, research collaborations, and civic life.

“In this sense, multilingualism prepares graduates not only for employment, but for leadership in diverse societies. In this regard, the NWU has distinguished itself as an institution where multilingualism is not only embraced but incorporated into its many facets,” said du Plessis.

She further said at the NWU, multilingualism is not an abstract ideal. Du Plessis added that it is a lived institutional commitment.

“Our functional multilingual policy ensures that, where possible and not restricted by resources or regulatory factors, classes are offered in more than one language, specifically Afrikaans and English, while materials and communication are provided in the other official NWU languages, namely Setswana and Sesotho, wherever possible.

“In doing so, we move beyond symbolic recognition of languages and actively embed multilingualism in teaching, learning, communication, and community engagement, while taking into account the diversity and multiplicity of our students and staff,” she said.

Du Plessis said they also ensure that they demonstrate their multilingual commitment across their communication platforms, including websites, and by supporting their deaf staff and students through the provision of South African Sign Language (SASL). She said the Language Directorate was founded to ensure that multilingualism is prioritised both institutionally and operationally.

“The Directorate provides a coordinated and structured approach to language planning, implementation, and monitoring across faculties and divisions. By embedding multilingualism into governance structures, academic processes, and student support systems, the Language Directorate reinforces the understanding that language is central to academic excellence, equity, and institutional transformation.

“We note how the rise of multilingualism is embraced both by national and multinational organisations. The United Nations’ Multilingualism Matters campaign and the planned launch of the UNESCO Global Roadmap on Multilingualism in the Digital Era in December 2025 signal a renewed international commitment to language equity,” she said.

Du Plessis said since the adoption of the UN General Assembly’s Multilingualism Resolution in June 2022, momentum has continued to build worldwide. She said this global movement affirms what South Africa’s Constitution (Section 6(4)), the Official Languages Use Act (2012), and the 2020 Language Policy Framework for Public Higher Education Institutions have long recognised: language equity and respect for all official languages are essential to dignity, inclusion, and meaningful participation.

“At the NWU, we take this responsibility seriously. We have expanded our official languages to four — English, Afrikaans, Setswana, and Sesotho — and continue to invest in multilingual teaching, terminology development, interpreting and translation services, and accessible language learning opportunities for staff and students.

“Progress since the approval of faculty and support unit language plans in 2019 has been encouraging, particularly in advancing Setswana and Sesotho as languages of learning and teaching. However, the development of African languages for scholarship and innovation remains an ongoing priority requiring sustained investment and collaboration,” said du Plessis.

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A murder and attempted murder case against The Meat Brother’s Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape postponed

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Picture: The Meat Brother’s Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape

By OBAKENG MAJE

11 November 2025- A murder and attempted murder case against The Meat Brother’s Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape (41), was postponed to 19 and 23 January 2026 by the Taung Regional Court. The trial was supposed to commence on Monday, however, it is alleged that the defence lawyer is off sick.

Mangwegape who is out on a R5000 bail, is accused of shooting and killing the NWU Soccer Institute player, Undivile “Vilo” Mdi (28) and injuring his friend, Aobakwe Ernest Kokwe (33).

On 17 December 2023, Mdi and Kokwe were amongst patrons who visited The Meat Brother’s Pub that was full to capacity. It is alleged that Mdi and Kokwe went outside and the security guards refused them entry on their return because the area was packed to capacity. Mdi and Kokowe allegedly tried to gain entry forcefully, but Mangwegape allegedly pulled out a gun and shot at them.

Mdi was fatally shot, while his friend was rushed to the hospital with terrible gunshot wounds. The injuries led to Kokwe’s leg being amputated.

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Police looking for missing Bokvel

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Picture: The missing of Alfred Gameni Bokvel/Supplied 

By OBAKENG MAJE

15 August 2025- The police in Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom appeal to the public to assist them in locating Alfred Gameni Bokvel (47), who is residing in Boifang Street, Extension 7, in Ikageng Township, Potchefstroom.

According to the North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh said Bokvel would normally leave home and come back after a few months. Mburgh said, however, on 1 December 2021 at around 10am, he left home but never came back.

“A search was conducted in the surrounding areas and extensive investigations did not yield positive results.

“At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a beige jacket, blue t-shirt, a mustard colour trouser and black shoes,” she said.

Myburgh further said Bokvel is dark in complexion with black eyes, a moustache and beard, a scar on the right side of his nose and a knife scar on the left side of the chest. She added that he weighs about 60kg and is 1.6m tall with black medium-length, afro hair. 

“Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts can contact the Investigating Officer, Constable Pholoso Mosenogi on 063 369 8023.

“You can also phone your local police station or South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App from your smartphone,” said Myburgh.

She further said extortion-related incidents can be reported on the Extortion hotline on 080 091 1011.

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Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille calls for accuracy and balanced reporting about SA

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Picture: The Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille

By BAKANG MOKOTO

4 June 2025- The Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille said she noted the recent update by the United States Department of State to its travel advisory for South Africa. De Lille said they respect the sovereign right of all nations to provide guidance to their citizens travelling abroad.

She further said they also acknowledge the recent meeting between Presidents Cyril Ramaphosa and Donald Trump and the subsequent media coverage that has followed. De Lille added that, however, it is important to offer broader context and reaffirm their unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety, comfort and enjoyment of all visitors to their country.

“South Africa remains one of the most sought-after and rewarding travel destinations in the world- known for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and the warm hospitality of its people.

“While challenges such as crime exist, as they do in many countries globally, the overwhelming majority of international visitors travel safely and leave with positive, enriching experiences. Visitor safety is, and continues to be, a national priority,” she said.  

De Lille said it is actively addressed through a range of coordinated efforts between government, law enforcement, the tourism sector and local communities. She said their tourism infrastructure remains robust and resilient, with several established safety measures, including increased security presence in key tourism nodes, supported by trained Tourism Monitors stationed at popular attractions and visitor hotspots.

“This includes the ongoing collaboration between government, law enforcement and the private sector to ensure proactive safety monitoring and swift incident response. It is worth highlighting that travel demand from the United States remains robust.

“In 2024, arrivals from the U.S. returned to pre-pandemic levels and the United States surpassed the United Kingdom as South Africa’s largest source market. In the first four months of 2025 alone, South Africa welcomed 111,491 visitors from the USA — reaffirming the destination’s enduring appeal and strong market confidence,” said de Lille.

She said they understand that travellers may have concerns, and they encourage all visitors to exercise the same level of vigilance and awareness they would when visiting any international destination. De Lille said they also call on media outlets and government agencies globally to report on South Africa with accuracy and balance, recognising the distinction between isolated incidents and the broader reality experienced by millions of safe and satisfied travellers.

“We are engaging closely with the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation on this matter and wish to reassure all travellers that South Africa remains open, welcoming, and committed to ensuring a safe and pleasurable journey for all who visit.

“We look forward to continuing to welcome travellers from the United States and across the globe, to share in the richness of our landscapes, the depth of our culture, and the warmth of our people,” she said.

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Over 200,000 young people start work in schools today

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

2 June 2025- The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa said today marks the ‘first day at school’ for about 200 000 young people at over 20 000 schools nationwide. Ramaphosa said this time, however, they are not arriving at school as learners, but as working adults.

He further said they are participants in the 5th phase of the Basic Education Employment Initiative, the largest youth employment programme in South Africa’s history. Ramaphosa added that after a year’s pause, the initiative returns to townships, villages, inner cities, farms and special needs schools, bringing hope, energy and incomes to places where opportunities are too often out of reach. 

“The initiative is a flagship programme of the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which has, since its inception in 2020, supported the delivery of jobs and livelihood opportunities in our country. The Basic Education Employment Initiative is implemented by the Department of Basic Education and by provincial education departments.

“It is now funded by the UIF Labour Activation Programme and national government. This programme is designed to develop the work skills that employers say they need, such as time management, task management, teamwork, problem solving, IT, admin and much more,” he said.

Ramaphosa said in the process, participants undertake roles aligned to school priorities to ensure these young people add real value, enhancing the learning environment for learners and strengthening learning outcomes. He said the Basic Education Employment Initiative offers opportunities for young people at all skills levels.

“Graduates are prioritised for work in the classroom, where their tasks allow teachers to spend more time on teaching and lesson preparation. Curriculum Assistants support maths, science and technology. Reading Champions promote literacy and a culture of reading. Lab and Workshop Assistants support technical subjects. Others support IT and school administration. 

“They also tackle essential maintenance, such as fixing doors, painting peeling walls, maintaining school vegetable gardens and playgrounds. Care and Support Assistants work with School Support Teams to identify and support children at risk. Still others spark life into sports, art and music, activities that inspire learners, uncover their talents and build pride in communities,” said Ramaphosa.

He said, together, these roles provide real work experience to young people and vital support to our education system. Ramaphosa said the best possible advice to the young people starting at schools this week comes from a former participant in the programme.

“In 2023, Sibongile Joni was a Curriculum Assistant at Emsengeni Primary School in the Eastern Cape. She has since been employed in an NGO called Masinyusane. She has this advice for participants now starting in the programme: “Be reliable: your consistency builds trust. Be willing to learn, ask questions, accept feedback and grow daily.

“Take initiative: if something needs to be done, do it without waiting to be told. Treat every task as important, no matter how small, because excellence in the small things builds your reputation. Always be professional: your attitude, respect and conduct matter,” he said.

Ramaphosa urges those employed to build strong relationships with staff and learners. He said people open doors for those they trust and enjoy working with.

“Lastly, make the most of the training offered, they equip you with the skills you’ll need for your next step. She says this journey has taught her that growth doesn’t come overnight. She says: “Start strong. Stay consistent. You’re building your future today.” 

“Every participant has their own hopes and dreams for their future beyond this programme. Whether they pursue a career in education, undertake further studies, search for a job or embrace self-employment, they won’t be starting from scratch,” said Ramaphosa.

He said from this programme, they will carry invaluable skills and experience. Ramaphosa said, yet, in a tough labour market, they will each need to tackle their next chapter with creativity and initiative. 

“As a society, we cannot leave young people to navigate the transition into work alone. Together, we need to step up to assist them. These young people will leave the school environment having shown up, contributed and made a difference.

“They will have worked in high-pressure environments with limited resources and will understand deadlines and responsibility. To employers, we say: give them their next opportunity, mentor their enthusiasm, help take their potential to the next level,” he said.

Ramaphosa said they also need to reach those young people who want to be entrepreneurs. He said they need to find new ways to support those who want to create their own jobs and local value, to connect them to finance, training, markets and networks.

“Today, we celebrate this cohort of young people beginning meaningful work, many for the first time. But let us also not forget those who applied for these posts but who weren’t selected. Through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, we have demonstrated the government’s capacity to address the youth unemployment problem.

“Through this programme, we have been able to give young people work experience and a pathway to formal employment or even further education. We do believe that this will have a much longer term benefit for the employability of young people. This is but one initiative that seeks to address the youth unemployment challenge,” said Ramaphosa.

He said they still have much more to do to address the plight of young people. Ramaphosa said these young people are showing them what they are capable of.

“It is up to all of us in society to give them the opportunities they need to thrive,” he said.

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A man sentenced to five years imprisonment for rape

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Picture: A man sentenced to five years imprisonment for rape/Generic

By OBAKENG MAJE

1 June 2025- A man (18) was sentenced to five years imprisonment for rape. On 22 October 20221, a girl (15) who was intoxicated, came back from a school function and found no one at home.

The ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Sergeant Omphile Masegela said the girl went looking for her brother at a local residence. Masegela said, however, she could not find him and she was offered a room to sleep in by one of her brother’s friends.

“Her brother woke her up during the night, but she was surprised to see that she was naked. She fell into sleep again and the next morning, she woke up and realised that she had been raped.

“She also had flashbacks of what transpired during the night. She confronted the accused (18) about it. He admitted that they had sex without her consent,” she said.

Masegela further said the victim then reported the matter to the police and a rape case was registered. She added that the accused, was found guilty of rape by the Postmasburg Regional Court on 26 May 2025, and sentenced to five years imprisonment.

“The meticulous investigation by Constable Keamogetswe Besson attached to Kakamas Family Violence Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit and state prosecutor, Kenneth Motsatse, was applauded by the management in the district in ensuring that justice was served for the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) victim.

“The SAPS in the ZFM District welcomed the sentence,” said Masegela.

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Motsumi addresses project challenges at Mphe Bana 2 Secondary School   

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Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

14 May 2025- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi visited Mphe Bana 2 Secondary School in Reagile Township, near Koster, to follow up on the ongoing construction delays and quality concerns at the site. The visit comes after a recent meeting held under the Thuntsa Lerole Programme, where local business representatives and the primary contractor discussed project challenges.

Motsumi said construction of Mphe Bana 2 Secondary School began in 2022 with an expected completion date in September 2024. She said, however, the project remains unfinished, raising concerns about workmanship and management.

“We express serious disappointment regarding the poor quality of work and multiple defaults observed at the site. We urge the main contractor to rectify these issues and ensure that all construction complies fully with the department’s standards and scope of work.

“During the follow-up meeting, local contractors highlighted difficulties in receiving payments from the main contractor, a factor that has further delayed progress,” said Motsumi.

She further announced a decisive step to protect the interests of local businesses. Motsumi added that, to safeguard the local contractors and ensure timely project completion, all outstanding payments from the main contractor will be redirected through the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) directly into the accounts of the local contractors.  

“This move aims to prevent contractors from being left unpaid and to accelerate the completion of the school. We reaffirm the department’s commitment to delivering quality education infrastructure on time and stress the importance of supporting local enterprises in the region of Bojanala and North West at large,” she said.

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North West dept apologies to service providers amid payment delays 

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

2 May 2025- The North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management said it acknowledges challenges faced by service providers as a result of delay in processing payments. The department said it has processed all invoices as received, however, there has been a delay due to internal system error.

The Head of Department (HoD) of North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management, Dr Has Kekana said the error has been resolved and they can confirm that the service providers will receive payments as from 6 May 2025. Kekana said the department appreciates the patience exercised by service providers and inconvenience caused is regretted.

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