28 July 2026- The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng will introduce the new North West Police Commissioner on Thursday. Morweng said the position of the North West Police Commissioner has been vacant since the former Commissioner retired in December 2024.
“The position is critical as the Provincial Commissioner is responsible for overall management of policing in the province. As an Accounting Officer, the Provincial Commissioner is expected to prevent and investigate crime, maintain public order and manage Provincial resources.
“The media briefing is scheduled to take place at Disaster Management in Mahikeng at 11am on Thursday,” he said.
Our highly-placed source said that Major General, Arthur Peter Adams will be announced as the new North West Police Commissioner. Arthur is senior South African Police Service (SAPS) officer, who served as the Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing in the Free State, previously holding leadership roles as the Mangaung Metro District Commissioner and Rustenburg Cluster Commander.
Career Highlights
Appointed Deputy Provincial Commissioner: Policing in the Free State in June 2026.
Served as District Commissioner for Mangaung Metro, leading multi-disciplinary crime-combuting operations and anti-gang initiatives.
Commanded the Rustenburg cluster, focusing on expanding rural and local police accessibility with mobile service centers.
Picture: Head of Department of North West Department of Education, Lengane Bogatsu/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
7 July 2026 – The North West Department of Education has secured an impressive 3rd finish at the highly competitive 2026 ABC Motsepe South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod (SASCE) National Championship, bringing home nine trophies on 3 July 2026. North West has obtained an overall third position amongst the nine provinces in the country.
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said this accomplishment places the province among the country’s top three performing provinces in school choral music. Motsumi said outstanding performance is a testament to the dedication, hard work and commitment of learners, choir conductors and educators, whose relentless efforts to develop and refine young musical talent continue to produce exceptional results on the national stage.
“Sunrise View Primary School from Sunrise in Rustenburg, Bojanala District obtained a first position in Folklore Category – IsiSwati and Own Culture. Reabona Secondary School form Wolmaranstad in Dr Kenneth Kunda District scooped a first position in Folklore Category – Setswana and Own Culture.
“Nkang Mahlale Secondary School from Jouberton in Dr KennethKaunda District obtained the second position in the Secondary Mixed Choir (Wester). Temogo Special School from Mogwase in Bojanala District obtained a Second position in the Special Schools SID (Own Song Choice),” she said.
Motsumi further said Christiana School for the Blind and the Partially Sighted from Christiana in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District obtained the Second position in the Special Schools (MID,PD Deaf and Blind) category. She added that Kamogelo Primary School from Migdol in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District obtained a third position in the Sexted category.
“Matlosana Secondary School from Jouberton in Dr Kenneth Kaunda District obtained a third position Female Choir – Syncopated Clock category. Mmabatho Secondary School from Mmabatho in Ngaka Modiri Molema District obtained a third position in the Male Choir – Seventy-Six Trombones category.
“Gaopalelwe Secondary School from Christiana in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District obtained a third position in the Mezzo – Soprano category,” said Motsumi.
She expressed her appreciation for the sterling work demonstrated by learners, choir conductors and educators, whose dedication, hard work and commitment contributed to the province’s remarkable achievement. Motsumi said on behalf of the department, she extend her heartfelt congratulations and sincere appreciation to all learners, educators, choir conductors, School Governing Bodies (SGBs), parents and departmental officials.
“I am truly proud of each one of you. You remained determined and gave your best until the very end. The 2026 Championships were highly competitive, with every province arriving well prepared.
“Despite the stiff competition, you rose to the occasion and represented the North West Province with distinction,” she said.
Motsumi said this achievement demonstrates that they are moving in the right direction in many areas. She said academically, the province continues to rank among the country’s top-performing provinces.
“Last year, the North West also emerged as one of the top provinces at the National Teaching Awards. These accomplishments affirm that our province is a formidable force to be reckoned with.
“As the province celebrate this momentous success, I encourage all our learners to enjoy the well-deserved winter school holidays. I wish everyone a safe journey back home and I look forward to welcoming you back when schools reopen”, highlighted Motsumi.
She said the outstanding achievements reflect the province’s continued commitment to nurturing musical excellence and promoting arts and culture in schools.
2 June 2026- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said she is delighted with the successful and smooth progress of the 2026 May/June National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations in the province. These examinations officially commenced on 25 May 2026 and have progressed without any major disruptions at all centers.
Motsumi further said a total of 294 examination centers are registered across the province to fully administer the 2026 NSC May/ June examinations. She applauded the teachers, invigilators, exam officials and support staff for their commitment and dedication in ensuring that matric candidates are adequately prepared and examination processes are efficiently conducted.
“The commitment and dedication displayed by our teachers and support has been very key in assuring that learners are provided with the best possible opportunity to succeed in their examinations.
“We remain calm and confident that our candidates will continue to perform well throughout the May/June examination period,” added Motsumi.
She confirmed that the department’s full support for the examinations being conducted. Motsumi said candidates in the province completed the curriculum coverage on schedule and participated in extensive revision programmes, which were conducted in weekend camps and preparatory assessments during the second quarter of the 2026 academic year.
“To date, there are no irregularities that have been reported that could jeopardise the credibility and integrity of the examinations. The department is pleased with the smooth running of the examinations thus far and sends best wishes to all candidates as they proceed with their examinations,” she said.
Picture: North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
20 May 2026 – The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi has convened all Independent Schools across the province at Laerskool Silwerrand in Rustenburg as part of ongoing interventions to assist the department to achieve a target of 95% in the 2026 academic year on 19 May 2026. The interactive engagement by Motsumi focused on the assessment of current functioning academic support programmes and strategies directed at boosting Grade 12 outcomes.
Motsumi said the session also afforded an opportunity to analyse the process of registering Independent Schools as examination centres, while assessing current hurdles and implementing non-negotiables within the schooling areas. She further said the management of Independent Schools have warmly welcomed and applauded her for creating interactive sessions as it creates a platform for information sharing, collaboration and collective accountability, mostly in improving the outcomes of learners.
“I highlighted the significance of tightening cooperation between independent schools and the provincial department. The province is more determined to attain a top position through a well-coordinated partnership and interventions.
“This interactive session indicates our collective responsibility and commitment towards improving learner performance and guaranteeing that all schools contribute purposefully towards the province’s academic goal,” she said.
Motsumi added that the platform for interaction session further afforded school managements an opportunity to engage with the management of the department directly on matters affecting their schools and all stakeholders in the meeting agreed on unity and collaboration in striving for improved Grade 12 results in the North West.
15 May 2026 – The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi has extended her best wishes to candidates who are currently writing the second chance matric. Motsumi said the 2026 May/June National Senior Certificate (NSC) and Senior Certificate (SC) examinations commenced on Monday.
She further said these examinations follow the deadline of registration, which was scheduled for 6 February 2026. Motsumi added that this programme is mainly targeted at those candidates who did not pass in earlier years or those seeking to increase their marks.
“The results are expected to be released in August 2026. I would like to further commend all candidates for their continued dedication and commitment to furthering their education despite previous backlogs.
“I wish you all the best during this examination period. Your perseverance and dedication strongly show courage and more commitment in building a brighter future for yourselves. We appreciate the second chance matric programme because it gives candidates a genuine second chance to improve their matric results,” she said.
Motsumi said her department will concurrently start preparations for the 2026 Mid Term (NSC) National Senior Certificate (matric) examinations scheduled to take place from 8 June 2026 following the conclusion of the May/June examinations.
Picture: Dr Elias Malindi during graduation/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
11 May 2026 – The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi has congratulated the newly-appointed Director of Communication, Dr Elias Malindi on his recent achievement of obtaining a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Communication. Motsumi said Malindi graduated from the North West University (Mahikeng campus) on Friday.
She further said Malindi brings with him more than 20 years of experience in Communication Services within the department, reflecting a long-standing commitment to excellence and professional growth. Motsumi added that before entering academia, Malindi worked underground in the mining sector for eight years.
“This experience shaped his work ethic and strengthened his determination to pursue higher education. Through commitment and resilience, he progressed academically and ultimately obtained his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Communication, B.A. (Honours) in Communication before registering for a Master of Arts (M.A.) dissertation in Communication, which he completed in 2013.
“He subsequently enrolled for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Communication Studies. All of these qualifications were obtained through the North West University (Mahikeng campus),” she said.
Motsumi said the topic for his study was: “Developing a communication framework for the effective dissemination of pandemic-related information in rural areas of the Ngaka Modiri Molema District in South Africa”. She said this study is situated within the field of health communication and the research addresses challenges associated with information exchange in underserved communities during public health crises.
“A qualitative research design was employed, incorporating the perspectives of key stakeholders, including traditional leaders, educational institutions and government departments. The findings reveal that existing communication approaches are often fragmented and inadequately aligned with local contexts.
“The study proposes a contextually relevant framework that integrates community-based structures and culturally appropriate communication strategies. This framework seeks to enhance coordination, improve access to information, and strengthen community responsiveness and resilience during pandemics,” said Motsumi.
Motsumi congratulated Malindi and expressed that his hard work, dedication and commitment to academic excellence serve as an inspiration to many within the education sector. She said Malindi’s achievement is a testament to perseverance, discipline and a passion for lifelong learning.
“His accomplishment not only brings pride to the department, but also demonstrates the importance of continuous personal and professional development. I would like to encourage all our colleagues in the department, not to relax but to develop themselves in their different careers.
“One day they are going to reap the benefits of personal development. Malindi will continue to inspire many employees, who started from humble beginnings and worked their way up through dedication, perseverance, and hard work,” said Motsumi.
She said Malindi’s achievement stands as a testament to perseverance and the transformative power of education. Motsumi said his story reflects a firm belief that one’s background does not determine one’s future.
Picture: Two female learners seen assaulting a boy learner at President Mangope Technical School in Tlhabane/Screengrab
By REGINALD KANYANE
14 February 2026- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said she condemn in the strongest terms the incident of bullying, which allegedly happened at President Mangope Technical School in Tlhabane Township, near Rustenburg. Motsumi said the video is currently circulating on various social media platforms.
She further said it is reported that the incident occurred at school during the break on Thursday, 12 February 2026. Motsumi added that it is reported that during the school break at the class of the Grade 9C, two girl learners locked themselves up inside the classroom with one boy learner.
“The video circulating on social media shows two girls assaulting a boy learner inside the classroom. It is further reported that another learner unlocked the door for the boy learner to escape and for other learners to gain access to the fighting learners.
“They eventually broke up the fight, two perpetrators and the victim were taken to the principal’s office. The school management resolved by suspending all three learners involved in the fight. The learners will be subjected to a school disciplinary process,” she said.
Motsumi insisted that incidents of fighting or bullying are not tolerated in schools. She condemned in the strongest terms the incident of bullying or fighting that allegedly happened at the school.
“Fighting among learners is totally not allowed in our schools. Any learner found to have violated the rights of other learners will face the full might of the law. At the beginning of the year, the school management outlines the non-negotiable to the learners.
“Each and every learner is made aware of their rights and the consequences of violating these rights. The School Governing Body (SGB) of the school is expected to invite the learners and their parents to a disciplinary hearing, which is scheduled to take place at the school between 16 -18 February 2026,” said Motsumi.
20 January 2026- The police said recent business robberies reported are alarming and concerning. The police said their preliminary investigations indicate that not sufficient safety precautionary measures are taken into consideration by business owners and managers.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the police have detected that large amounts of cash is not banked or deposited on time into business drop safes or (depository safe). Shemane said the police in the province are making an urgent plea to all business owners to adhere and implement the following safety hints and measures to prevent businesses being targeted and becoming victims of robberies.
“Deposit money into the drop safe as quickly as possible to prevent planned internal theft. Avoid having large amounts of cash on the business premises, bank or drop it on regular time intervals. The police cannot overemphasize the importance of the installation of sufficient surveillance cameras on the business premises.
“Employ enough security personnel and always be vigilant when working with money. Do not use the same routes to bank daily cash. Avoid operating after hours and remain within the business hours. Avoid being alone in the business, especially at night and do not sleep on the premises,” he said.
Shemane further said business owners should not open for anyone after the business is closed. He added that they should always try to be two or three when opening and closing the business.
“Train your staff and share robbery prevention and response guidelines on how to act prior to or during business robberies,” said Shemane.
Picture: North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi
By OBAKENG MAJE
19 January 2026- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi has encouraged all parents and guardians who are still looking for space for their children to visit the Local Education Offices in their areas, where they reside. Motsumi said her department has established Education Hubs specifically to assist parents and guardians who did not get space for learners.
Motsumi further said the Education Hubs will assist with the placement of learners into different schools. She added that the issue of parents not getting their children to school has come to the attention of the department.
“The constitution of the Republic of South Africa emphasizes that every child has a right to education.
During the reopening of schools every learner should be in school.
“I take this time again to encourage parents and guardians to visit Education Hubs in the Local Education Offices (LEOs). I have instructed that these hubs should ensure that all learners are placed in schools,” said Motsumi.
She said she wants to caution parents and guardians that schools of choice cannot be provided at this time. Motsumi said now it is very late for parents to demand schools of choice.
“We are going to place learners where there is space not far from their place of stay. We are requesting cooperation from parents and guardians in order for teaching and learning to start on the first day of the reopening of schools.
“For more information on the placement of learners, parents and guardians should call the District Directors on various numbers. In Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, they can call the District Director, Mojakhumo Dithejane on 072 616 4368,” she said.
Motsumi said in Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, they can call N. Seokolo on 082 884 6423, in Ngaka Modiri Molema District, they can call E. Lesetedi on 082 356 0503, while in Bojanala District, Dr L. Ntwape will be ready to receive their calls on 076 927 2667.
Picture: North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi
By BAKANG MOKOTO
12 January 2026- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said her department encourages all parents and guardians who are still looking for space for their children to visit the Local Education Offices (LEOs) in their areas where they reside. Motsumi said her department has established Education Hubs specifically to assist parents and guardians who did not get space for learners.
She further said the Education Hubs will assist with the placement of learners into different schools. Motsumi added that the issue of parents not getting their children to school has come to the attention of the department.
“The constitution of the Republic of South Africa emphasizes that every child has a right to education. During the reopening of schools every learner should be in school. I take this time again to encourage parents and guardians to visit Education Hubs in the Local Education Offices (LEOs).
“I have instructed that these hubs should ensure that all learners are placed in schools. Again, l wants to caution parents and guardians that schools of choice cannot be provided at this time. Now it is very late for parents to demand schools of choice,” she said.
Motsumi said they are going to place learners where there is space not far from their place of stay. She said they are requesting for co-operation from parents and guardians in order for teaching and learning to start on the first day of the reopening of schools.
“For more information on the placement of learners, parents and guardians should call the District Directors. In Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, they can call Mojakhumo Dithejane on 072 616 4368, N. Seokolo in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District on 082 884 6423, E. Lesetedi on 082 356 0503 in Ngaka Modiri Molema District.
“They can also call Dr L. Ntwape on 076 927 2667 in Bojanala District,” said Motsumi.
The Guardian 