Latest news with #HigherEducationandTraining
The Citizen
a day ago
- General
- The Citizen
‘Gum-chewing' minister goes viral, prompting conduct warning for South African MPs
Dr Nkabane said she was fully engaged in parliamentary sessions, despite videos circulating of her allegedly chewing gum. A spotlight has been cast on some bad manners that South African parliamentarians display while serving their constituencies in the National Assembly. This comes after ANC MP and Minister for Higher Education and Training, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, shocked the country this week as she participated in a Q&A session in a committee on Higher Education and Training while chewing what appears to be bubble gum. Following some backlash from the public, the minister moved quickly to explain why she was chewing. 'I spent the entire morning & most of the afternoon in the portfolio committee meeting, engaging with MPs on matters affecting higher education & training. 'The chair gave members permission to eat while proceedings continued. I was present, committed to answering questions,' she said on her X account. Nkabane is not the first minister to carry herself inappropriately during a parliamentary session. A few years ago, former EFF MP Mbuyiseni Ndlozi confronted the then minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane for sleeping in parliament. At the time, it was described as 'unparliamentary'. Theo Neethling, a political analyst, told The Citizen that South African politicians should be careful not to send a negative perception of public servants. This could manifest as sleeping, chewing gum, or disengaging while on duty. MPs must have high standards 'As elected representatives, parliamentarians are expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct and serve as role models for the public. 'Their behaviour not only reflects on their individual commitment, but also directly influences public trust and the perceived legitimacy of democratic institutions. 'By consistently demonstrating professionalism—especially Cabinet ministers—they contribute to a culture of accountability and foster confidence in political processes and governance,' he said. Neethling said he believes chewing gum in parliament is not acceptable. 'While I see this as unacceptable, I do not believe the minister needs to issue a formal apology. 'At the same time, it may be appropriate for the chief whip of her party to reinforce expectations around professional behaviour. He might remind all members of his party that chewing gum, eating, or otherwise displaying informal conduct during parliamentary sessions is inappropriate and does not uphold the dignity of parliament,' he said. ALSO READ: Ramaphosa defends US trip amid economic criticism during Q&A Social media reaction Meanwhile, on X, some users were disturbed by a circulating clip of Nkabane chewing during a parliamentary session. 'Zero tolerance for leaders who think they can get away with arrogance. We don't need nor want Trumpism. 'Make Minister Nobuhle Nkabane go back on live TV and answer the question posed,' said Annika Langa. Former DA MP Phumzile van Damme said she was also disturbed by the minister's behaviour. 'This rubbed me the wrong way in a major way. Is it just me? Is chewing gum in any professional setting while answering questions acceptable? In parliament? It's a deliberate act to express 'IDGAF.' It's a middle finger,' she said. NOW READ: Was Ramaphosa heckling EFF's payback for White House embarrassment?
The Citizen
4 days ago
- Science
- The Citizen
Girl (17) obtains Actuarial Science degree, one of UP's youngest-ever graduates
Mongiwa Hazel Ntuli (17) has become one of the University of Pretoria's (UP) youngest-ever graduates when she obtained her degree in Actuarial Science, earning her a nod from Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Nobuhle Pamela Nkabane. Originally from Rosettenville in Johannesburg, Ntuli's academic journey is an inspiring tale of early talent and exceptional perseverance. She began her university studies in 2022 after rapidly progressing through primary and secondary school, thanks to her outstanding academic abilities recognised from an early age. 'When I was in Grade 3, I mistakenly wrote a Grade 4 mathematics paper and scored the highest of all the actual Grade 4 students,' she said in a press UP press release. 'My teacher identified this and allowed me to write more Grade 4 papers, and saw that I performed exceptionally well.' Minister Nkabane described Ntuli's accomplishment as an extraordinary milestone, making her one of the youngest graduates in the university's history, and a shining example of academic excellence, resilience, and the transformative power of education. 'Hazel's story is one of exceptional talent, discipline, and vision. Her ability to excel from an early age; her courage to navigate university life years ahead of her peers, and her determination to push through challenges, are deeply inspiring. 'Her pursuit of a qualification in Actuarial Science – a demanding discipline that is central to problem solving, financial risk management, economic modelling, and long-term sustainability – is particularly commendable,' Nkabane said in a statement on Thursday. The minister emphasised that Ntuli's success represents not only a personal triumph, but a beacon of hope for the nation. 'Her success comes at a time when South Africa is facing a critical decline in the number of learners enrolling in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects. These fields are crucial to building a competitive, inclusive, and resilient economy, and young people like Hazel are proof that with the right support and determination, our youth can rise to the task of building a stronger, more sustainable South African economy. 'Her story affirms the importance of identifying and nurturing talent early, and of creating learning environments that support young people to thrive, regardless of age, gender, or background. Hazel is not only breaking boundaries in the academic space; she is breaking intergenerational barriers, becoming the first graduate in her family, and lighting the way for countless others,' the Minister said. Nkabane encouraged learners across the country, especially particularly young girls, to draw inspiration from Ntuli's journey. 'As she continues her studies and charts a path into the professional world, Hazel carries with her the hopes of a nation and the pride of her community.' – At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
IOL News
29-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Historic graduation: 17-year-old Mongiwa Ntuli earns Actuarial Science degree
Mongiwa Ntuli is due to graduate soon at the age of 17 in Actuarial Science. This humble academic said she will continue with her studies to reach the milestones she has set for herself. Image: Supplied In a remarkable academic achievement, a 17-year-old student obtained a degree in Actuarial Science. Mongiwa Hazel Ntuli graduated with a degree in Actuarial Science from the University of Pretoria. The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Nobuhle Pamela Nkabane, extended a heartfelt congratulations to Ntuli, on Thursday. This extraordinary milestone made Ntuli one of the youngest graduates in the university's history, and a shining example of academic excellence, resilience and the transformative power of education. Originally from Rosettenville in Johannesburg, Ntuli's story is one of exceptional talent, discipline, and vision. Her ability to excel from an early age, her courage to navigate university life years ahead of her peers, and her determination to push through challenges are deeply inspiring. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ "Her pursuit of a qualification in Actuarial Science, a demanding discipline that is central to problem solving, financial risk management, economic modelling, and long-term sustainability is particularly commendable. Ntuli's success is not only a personal triumph but a national beacon of hope. It comes at a time when South Africa is facing a critical decline in the number of learners enrolling in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects," Minister Nkabane said. The Minister added that these fields are crucial to building a competitive, inclusive, and resilient economy. "Young people like Ntuli are proof that with the right support and determination, our youth can rise to the task of building a stronger, more sustainable South African economy. Her story affirms the importance of identifying and nurturing talent early, and of creating learning environments that support young people to thrive, regardless of age, gender or background. Ntuli is not only breaking boundaries in the academic space; she is breaking intergenerational barriers, becoming the first graduate in her family, and lighting the way for countless others," the Minister further stated. Nkabane encouraged learners across the country, especially young girls, to take inspiration from Ntuli's journey. "As she continues her studies and charts a path into the professional world, Hazel carries with her the hopes of a nation and the pride of her community," the Minister further added. Ntuli's academic prowess was picked up during her early schooling days. 'When I was in Grade 3, I mistakenly wrote a Grade 4 mathematics paper and scored the highest of all the actual Grade 4 learners. My teacher identified this and allowed me to write more Grade 4 papers, and saw that I performed exceptionally well,' Ntuli said. Her achievements, she says, are grounded in gratitude and faith. 'I first and foremost attribute it all to God.' Choosing UP was an easy decision for Mongiwa. 'It was the first university to call out to me when I applied. It has the best perks and is one of the top-ranked actuarial science departments that is internationally recognised.' The balance of being both 'far and near' to home added to the appeal. 'Many students treated me like the little sister they never had. There were a lot of expectations of me, and it got difficult to meet those expectations,' she said. Now pursuing an Honours degree, Mongiwa has no plans to slow down. 'After this, I'm planning to both work and further my studies. I've always wanted an MBA.' Her long-term vision includes qualifying as an actuary and stepping into the business world when the time is right. As the first in her family to graduate from university, Mongiwa sees this moment not just as a personal victory but as a generational milestone. 'My parents will have their much-deserved bragging rights. It will alleviate a lot of pressure and burdens that my family has been carrying for so long.' BUSINESS REPORT Visit:
IOL News
29-05-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Nkabane confident in new SETA appointments amid public scrutiny
Minister of Higher Education and Training Nobuhle Nkabane says the government gazette for SETA chairpersons' appointments affirms that all nominations for the relevant bodies will solely be judged on lawful merit-based criteria. Image: Independent Newspapers Archives Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane is confident that the restarted process to appoint chairpersons of boards of directors of the Sector and Education Training Authorities (SETA) will not again attract an outcry from the public. Responding to questions in the National Assembly on Wednesday, Nkabane said she will stick to legislative imperatives and has instructed the panel, independent of handling the nominations and recommendations, to ensure that the list of recommended candidates is not bloated with politically exposed persons. 'When we reopened the process this time around, we are going to address the concerns that were raised. I don't envisage public outcry after this process is concluded because we anticipate concluding it within a short space of time. I just want to assure the House that there will be no public outcry,' she said. Nkabane made the statement during a question-and-answer session in the National Assembly in connection with the withdrawal of the appointments of SETA chairpersons earlier this month after she received backlash from civil society and political parties for appointing several ANC-aligned individuals. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading Among the controversial appointees were former KwaZulu-Natal premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube and Buyambo Mantashe, son of ANC national chairperson and Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Gwede Mantashe. The minister said the Constitution guaranteed fundamental freedoms such as the right to choose freely one's trade, occupation, profession, equality before the law, political rights, and freedom of association. 'These principles ensure no individual is denied opportunities based on political affiliation or association,' she said. Nkabane added that the Skills Development Act contained no provision excluding or favouring candidates based on their political beliefs. 'The government gazette of 22 May 2025 affirms that all nominations for the relevant bodies will be solely judged on lawful merit-based criteria.' She defended the now-cancelled appointments, saying the recommended candidates were academically qualified. 'We decided to recalibrate the process, not because there was something wrong with the process that was conducted by the independent panel. It is only because we are responding to the outcry of society hence we are a responsive government, as the ANC. 'We felt it was very important for us to be responsive and listen to the citizens when they cry to say they feel the calibre of the candidates is more politically heavy. So we had to respond, not that there is any legislation we contravened,' Nkabane said. She was adamant that the now-cancelled appointments were beyond reproach and that candidates had met the criteria for appointment. 'They have a role to play in society. They raised their hands to say they wanted to serve so that they could turn around the post-school and education sector. We have a responsibility as a government to respond to the cries.' EFF MP Sihle Lonzi said the withdrawal of the appointment effectively meant there was a flaw in the process. And that there were people who were not supposed to be chairpersons of the boards. 'If there was no problem in the process, you were not going to withdraw those names. You withdrew the names because the people of South Africa don't want Gwede Mantashe's son and ANC comrades there,' Lonzi said. In response, Nkabane said there was no flaw in the process followed, and they were merely responding to the public outcry. 'We are not to deviate from the legislation that empowers the minister on processes that must be followed in appointing accounting authorities. 'We are still to follow the Constitution, Skills Development Act, and the guide on the criteria that must be followed. Because our people cried that, indeed, it is politically bloated with candidates that were recommended, this time around, among the criteria I will add personally, is to say to the independent panel to please make sure it is balanced in demographics and that that we don't see bloated politically associated candidates in that list. 'However, we need to take into consideration that the Constitution does not preclude those who are politically affiliated,' Nkabane said.
IOL News
01-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Minister Nkabane launches Digital Innovation Lab to equip students for the future
Higher Education and Training Minister Nobuhle Nkabane launched a state-of-the-art Digital Innovation Lab at Esayidi TVET College in uMzimkhulu, KwaZulu-Natal. Image: Supplied In a step toward embracing the digital age, Minister of Higher Education and Training, Nobuhle Nkabane, officially launched a state-of-the-art Digital Innovation Lab at Esayidi TVET College in uMzimkhulu, KwaZulu-Natal, on Tuesday. The minister's delegation included the department's director-general, Nkosinathi Sishi, director-general for TVET Colleges, Sam Zungu, along with municipal leaders, industry representatives, and prominent figures in the education and training sectors. The department said this lab is a significant milestone for the future of digital education in South Africa. Minister Nkabane said the lab is important in preparing students for the opportunities and challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), where digital skills are vital for success in today's fast-evolving job market. "The launch of the Digital Innovation Lab is a pivotal step in providing our students with the skills needed to thrive in a digital economy. This facility ensures that learners are not just consumers of technology but innovators shaping the future," she said. According to Nkabane, Esayidi TVET College is now at the forefront of empowering youth to engage with technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and cloud computing, which are critical for the industries of tomorrow. Esayidi's acting principal, Chris Migochi, said the college is proud to launch the Digital Innovation Lab, which represents their commitment to equipping students with the skills they need to succeed in the digital economy. 'The partnerships we have formed with industry leaders will ensure that our students are well prepared for the opportunities in industries such as manufacturing, ICT, and robotics," he said. Migochi stated that they are establishing a hub for creativity, innovation, and collaboration that will prepare learners for the workforce of the future. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ The department said the college has already trained its first cohort of students and lecturers, who are now ready to engage with the lab's resources in areas such as robotics, AI, cloud computing, and more. In addition, Esayidi is working with partners for possible placement opportunities and apprenticeships, as well as Vodacom for network infrastructure support, among other partners for various opportunities to support the Lab. The Digital Innovation Lab will offer short courses, skills programmes, and learnerships across various sectors, including manufacturing, ICT, and robotics. 'Esayidi TVET College plans to expand its digital training model to other campuses, introduce new technologies aligned with 4IR, and establish international exchange programmes and global certification pathways for students in the coming months,' concluded the department. Higher Education and Training Minister Nobuhle Nkabane launched a state-of-the-art Digital Innovation Lab at Esayidi TVET College in uMzimkhulu, KwaZulu-Natal. Image: Supplied The Digital Innovation Lab will equip students with the skills they need to succeed in the digital economy. Image: Supplied Higher Education and Training Minister Nobuhle Nkabane launched a state-of-the-art Digital Innovation Lab at Esayidi TVET College in uMzimkhulu, KwaZulu-Natal. Image: Supplied Certificates were handed to students by Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane for completing practical work experience in the OEM Robotics Skills Programme, funded by the National Skills Fund, as they finalise their final year of training. Image: Supplied
