Tag Archives: The North West MEC for Education

Underperforming schools get boost ahead NSC final examinations  

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

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

14 October 2024- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi convened a critical meeting with circuit managers, Chief Education Specialists (CES), school principals, and retired school managers to strategize interventions aimed at improving the performance of underperforming schools across the province. Motsumi said they held a meeting following a detailed unpacking of results from the past three terms, focused on developing collaborative solutions to elevate the province’s academic standing, with the goal of securing a top-three national position in the upcoming year-end examinations.

During the meeting, she further emphasized the importance of collective expertise and knowledge-sharing in identifying the most effective strategies to address persistent challenges.

“It is crucial that we pool our insights and experiences to close the gaps in learner performance. Our commitment is to ensure that every learner is given the opportunity to succeed, and that we lift the educational standards of our province.

“Currently, schools are implementing the “Last Push” revision program, which aims to reinforce learner preparedness as the syllabus for the year has been concluded,” said Motsumi.

She added that this program plays a vital role in addressing content gaps identified throughout the academic season and is designed to give learners the necessary tools to excel in their final examinations. In addition, Motsumi said her department has engaged key stakeholders to support learners with both electronic and hard copy study guides.

“Partners such as Vodacom have been instrumental in providing access to e-learning platforms, ensuring that learners across the province benefit from digital resources,” she said.

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North West Department of Education officials nabbed for fraud

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By REGINALD KANYANE

25 September 2024- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said the arrest of two departmental officials for fraud, marks a crucial step in addressing fraudulent activities within her department. Motsumi said these officials from the Bojanala District Office, were arrested by the Hawks in connection with fraudulent documents.

She further said the arrests follow a thorough investigation and they briefly appeared before the Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court on 25 September 2024. Motsumi added that the case involves officials who were appointed in 1998 and another in 2008.

“They were both found with fraudulent matric certificates. The verification process revealed that the matric certificates purportedly issued were invalid, as confirmed by the Umalusi.

“Following these findings, the matter was referred to the Department’s Labour Unit for intervention prior to the Hawks and National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) investigations. The accused persons were granted R12 000 and R2000 bail respectively,” she said.

Motsumi expressed the department’s commitment to clean governance and eradicating fraudulent behaviour within the education sector. She said as a department, one of the priorities that they are pursuing is to improve education, training, and innovation, and to contribute towards building a developmental state in the country.

“When we improve education, training, and innovation, we want the department to be regarded as the apex of good governance. To achieve that, we must clean up corrupt or fraudulent tendencies within the department.

“These arrests are a result of an ongoing investigation that has appeared in various media platforms in recent months. It is time for the law to take its course, and we trust that the state will handle these matters appropriately,” said Motsumi.

She said as the department, they will not interfere with the process. Motsumi said their focus remains on preparing the learners for the upcoming exams, with a targeted 90% pass rate across the province.

“While this matter is before law enforcement, our primary responsibility remains to ensure a quality education for all learners. The department will continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure transparency and accountability within the sector,” she said.

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2025 Learner Registration in North West to close on 30 September 2024

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

16 September 2024- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said she would like to thank all parents and legal guardians who have already applied for early learner registration for the 2025 academic year. Motsumi said early registration is crucial in reducing the burden on schools in January and ensuring that the placement process is smooth and timely.

“The department urges parents and guardians who have not yet applied to do so before the final registration deadline on 30 September 2024, to avoid disruptions to your teaching and learning. The department will begin the placement process for all learners on the waiting list following the registration deadline.

“The learner placement plans are in place and urges schools to talk to parents for application outcomes. I take time then to thank parents who have heeded the call to apply in the past months and urge parents to do so before the end of September,” she said.

Motsumi further said schools are also required to communicate the outcomes of applications to parents and guardians promptly, ensuring that learners are placed in schools registered with the North West Department of Education. She added that it is important to register learners with accredited schools within their local communities.

“We encourage all parents and guardians to register their children with our public ordinary schools within their radius. This helps parents to avoid falling victim to bogus institutions. Early registration helps us plan more effectively and ensures that no child is left behind.

“The department remains committed to ensuring that all learners have access to quality education in properly accredited institutions,” said Motsumi.

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RBI commended for its efforts in promoting accountancy education

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Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi commended the Royal Bafokeng Institute [RBI] for its efforts in promoting accountancy education among learners/Supplied 

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

5 September 2024- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi has commended the Royal Bafokeng Institute [RBI] for its efforts in promoting accountancy education among learners. Motsumi delivered an address at the RBI Accountancy Education Summit held at the Phokeng Civic Centre today.

She further said the theme was: “The South African Accountancy Education Crisis: How do we solve the challenges?” Motsumi added that the summit’s objective was to examine the current state of accountancy education in South Africa, encompassing primary and secondary schools, as well as tertiary institutions and the industry.

“The overarching aim is to tackle the issues confronting accountancy education and devise strategies to stimulate interest and performance in this crucial field of study.

“These challenges include declining enrolment numbers, as well as learners’ underperformance and teachers’ inadequate grasp of the curriculum.There is a necessity of comprehending the historical context of accountancy education in South Africa, particularly within previously disadvantaged communities, to address these challenges effectively,” she said.

Motsumi said they must reconceptualize their schools as hubs of excellence, where accountancy education is accorded priority and students are encouraged to pursue this field of study with confidence. She said her department remains committed to addressing these challenges, facing the accountancy fraternity with urgency by working closely with the Royal Bafokeng Institute to produce a generation of financial professionals within the province.

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INKAL Oral History competition winners congratulated

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Picture: Some of the National Inkosi Albert Luthuli (INKAL) Oral History competition winners/Supplied

26 August 2024

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said she is proud to announce that their learners have excelled in the National Inkosi Albert Luthuli (INKAL) Oral History competition held at ANEW Hotel in Benoni, Gauteng from 23 until 24 August 2024.

Motsumi said the iNkosi Albert Luthuli competition, is a project held annually with the aim of encouraging learners, as well as teachers to increase their interest in personal and community history.

“The North West successfully held their iNKAL competition. The department was able to produce learners, who represented the province at the national competitions. The National INKAL Oral History winners from the North West Department of Education are Refilwe Ramodia from Christiana Special School for the Blind in Christiana.

“Ramodia has obtained the first position in the Special School – African Poetry category. Oreabetse Mokowe from Lichtenburg English Secondary School in Lichtenburg, obtained the first position in the Young Historian – Grade 8 category, while Oarabile Molefe from Lichtenburg English Secondary in Lichtenburg, obtained the first position in the Young Historian – Grade 10 category,” she said.

Motsumi further said Asikhona Mphokane from Molebatsi Secondary school, obtained the second position in the Young Historian – Grade 11 category, while Bonolo Williams from Nkang Mahlale in Jouberton Township, Klerksdorp, obtained the second position in the Story Writing category.

“Phemelo Londt from Phiri Secondary School in Ventersdorp, obtained the third position in the Young Historian – Grade 9. On behalf of the department, l take this moment to congratulate all the top performers from our province,” she said.

Motsumi added that she really wish to thank the teachers for their sterling work in the schools. She said this achievement is due to their efforts they put in schools.

“To those who didn’t get the top positions at national, they should know that as a department, we are proud of them. They should regroup and try again next year. All the winners received vouchers as prizes,” said Motsumi.

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A Surprise Party For Winners Of Teaching Awards

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Picture: Winners of teaching awards/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

In a grand gesture of appreciation, the North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, hosted a surprise gala dinner on 22 August 2024, at Kgaswane Lodge in Rustenburg for the provincial winners of the Teaching Awards. The winners will soon represent the province on the national stage at the prestigious National Teaching Awards.

Motsumi said the exclusive event was a night to remember. She further took the opportunity to personally thank the teachers for their unparalleled dedication to uplifting the standard of education in the province.

“These exceptional teachers have not only excelled in their classrooms, but have also become shining examples of what passion, commitment, and innovation can achieve in our education system.

“Their contributions are the foundation upon, which our future generations will build. So, tonight, we celebrate their extraordinary efforts. I do not doubt that our educators will make us proud,” added Motsumi.

She said they carry with them the hopes and dreams of the province. Motsumi said she believes they will leave an indelible mark on the national competition.

“The provincial winners are currently fine-tuning their presentations in preparation for the national event, which will take place on October 5th at the Birchwood Hotel.

“With a blend of excitement and nerves, these educators are set to showcase the best of North West’s educational excellence,” she said.

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Stolen items from three schools recovered

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By OBAKENG MAJE

The North West MEC for Education,Viola Motsumi commended the swift action by the Community Police Forum (CPF) and the community of Pella village, which led to the recovery of stolen assets following burglaries at three schools over the weekend. Motsumi said the schools that were affected by the break-ins are Tapos Primary School, Sewagodimo Technical School, and Morare Secondary School.

“They suffered losses, including tablets designated for Grade R learners and a refrigerator. Thanks to a tip-off from vigilant community members, the CPF was able to recover these stolen items.

“So far, one of the perpetrators has been apprehended and investigations are ongoing. We would like to praise the community and CPF for their prompt response and active role in safeguarding the schools,” she said.

Motsumi further extended her heartfelt appreciation to the Community Police Forum and the residents of Pella, for their swift action in recovering the stolen assets. She added that their vigilance and commitment to protecting the schools are invaluable.

“Incidents like these remind us that the security of our schools is not just the responsibility of the department, but of the entire community. Together, we can ensure that our learners’ educational resources are protected and that our schools remain safe environments for all.

“As department, we will continue to work closely with law enforcement and the community to ensure that those responsible for these crimes are brought to justice and that such incidents are prevented in the future,” said Motsumi.

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Intruders threatened teachers and learners with pangas at school 

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Picture: A panga allegedly being used during a confrontation/Generic

By REGINALD KANYANE 

The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said she strongly condemns the violent trespassing incident at Boitshoko Secondary School in Lomanyaneng village, near Mahikeng, where intruders threatened teachers and learners with pangas at the beginning of August 2024. According to Motsumi, this disturbing event highlights the urgent need for enhanced partnership between the department and communities.

“This collaboration, particularly in high-risk communities plagued by gangsterism, will return discipline to the learners. We strongly condemn the trespassing into the school properties. The activities of trespassers seriously jeopardize departmental initiatives to raise learners’ achievement in the classroom. 

“We are losing important infrastructure in our schools due to this criminal activity, which is not only a waste of taxpayer money, but it also belittles the diligent efforts of all law-abiding citizens,” she said. 

Motsumi further said that education is a societal matter, therefore, all stakeholders should take part in ensuring that learners get quality education.

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‘There is a need for digital skills in STEM’

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

By BAKANG MOKOTO

The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said she was honoured to be part of the launch of the Job Shadowing Programme. Motsumi said this is a transformative initiative spearheaded by the Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) in collaboration with Sibanye Stillwater, TechnoGirl Trust and Agape Youth Movement.

She further said the launch event took place on 12 August 2024, at the Sibanye Stillwater Recreation Club in Rustenburg, aligning with the celebrations of International Youth Day (IYD). Motsumi added that the DWYPD, as the national custodian for youth development, continues to champion the empowerment of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in all their diversities.

“The Job Shadowing Programme has been conceptualized as a critical step towards equipping young people with the necessary skills and experiences to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving world.

“By providing opportunities for youth to gain insights and hands-on experience in various professions, the programme is a significant stride towards fostering digital inclusion and ensuring that no young person is left behind,” she said.

Motsumi commended the DWYPD for its commitment to creating opportunities that empower the youth. She said the programs like these are not just opportunities—they are lifelines that will help them build a more just, equitable and prosperous society for all.

“Our department came along with senior managers and 24 learners from various in and around Rustenburg.  We remain dedicated to supporting initiatives that provide youth with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the modern workforce.

“Through collaborative efforts with key stakeholders, the department will continue to prioritize youth development and ensure that young people across the province have access to opportunities that will shape their futures,” said Motsumi.

The Deputy Minister of DWYPD, Steve Letsike emphasised the importance of the partnership with the Department of Basic Education (DBE).

“We cannot leave the Department of Basic Education behind when we speak of youth. There’s a need for digital skills in STEM, as well as skills acquisition, for a country to truly achieve digital inclusion,” he said.

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