Search results for: matric

Johannesburg: The pandemic’s impact on education is far from over, said St Martin’s School principal Warren Venter. The deficit, he said, must be liquidated as soon as possible to protect an entire generation from dangerous regression.

In remedy, the school developed personalised ‘catch-up’ curricula for learner sets that were identified as somewhere on the spectrum of an education deficit. Venter said that St Martin’s School has developed compulsory intra and extra mural sessions across all grades to address gaps in education, including addressing learners’ ability to focus and function effectively within a scholastic environment.

“It’s a programme that I feel all schools must adopt to avoid a problem that could recur as each learner progresses to successive grades. It has to be nipped in the butt, because South Africa cannot afford to graduate students with unsuitably developed skills. The knock-on effect on future growth could be dire,” Venter warned.

He listed mathematics and literacy as the two primary deficits.

Recently, South Africans were shocked to learn that Grade 4 learners struggled to read with meaning. But Venter said that the problem stretches through to matriculants, too. He said a direct line can be drawn between much of the country’s reading with meaning challenges and the pandemic, too.

Venter noted three primary reasons for the lag. “While there was no alternative, online learning became the go-to for families. It played a crucial role, but anecdotal evidence suggested that students were struggling to focus. Online learning is usually paired with multi-tasking and attention and focus on subject matter being taught often lacked the intensity required.”

He also listed social media as a thorn in learning’s side. “It proved to be a massive distraction during the pandemic, and it continues to be an attention segue for students today,” he said. It then translated to the classroom, as lockdown restrictions waned, creating challenges in concentration, reading and digestion of learning materials.

It’s been just over a year since South Africa lifted all lockdown restrictions, and Venter said that understanding the enormous impact of the pandemic has only recently started to come to the fore.

St Martin’s School plans to continually assess learners on their catch-up journey. Venter said that while some of the picture has emerged, he expects it to still take some time to fully unfold.

“Intervention is the only way to assess, understand and remedy a situation. Notwithstanding other challenges, the deficit hangover could become one of the biggest crises in education in the history of the country. Addressing it through individualization and group remedy, is the only path ahead,” he said.

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ISSUED ON BEHALF OF ST MARTIN’S SCHOOL BY G&G DIGITAL

St Martin’s School is a reputable South African private school with, highly-qualified teachers and a notable alumnus. A beacon of excellence, St Martin’s offers students a holistic learning experience and has a reputation for outstanding academics, culture, and sport, as well as for nurturing students to make a positive impact on the world. With fully equipped co-ed boarding facilities, St Martin’s is trusted by parents from all over Southern Africa, to provide their children with a quality education from preparatory to Matric.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT stmartin.co.za OR CONTACT Hein Kaiser ON 082 520 0555 OR This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

ACDC Dynamics has launched its new Power Partner campaign, collaborating with well-known local personalities to educate audiences about the Power Partner initiative and ACDC’s expertise and extensive offerings.

Actor and motivational speaker, Hykie Berg, and media personality and comedian, Themba Robin, have partnered with ACDC Dynamics on this campaign because they recognise ACDC Dynamics’ authenticity as a brand. They also recognise that ACDC Dynamics has a strong brand purpose of giving back and helping to grow the economy and small businesses, and that this campaign sees the company putting this purpose into action.

The Power Partner initiative aims to uplift businesses in need of solar and backup power solutions, ensuring that these businesses can go on to be successful, return to profitability and ultimately serve the communities in which they operate. ACDC Dynamics will select deserving businesses and contribute towards their power infrastructure. 

Loadshedding has had a profound impact on businesses, with many losing valuable time in productivity, while struggling to keep their doors open. ACDC Dynamics has launched the Power Partner initiative because the company cares about the success of South African businesses, especially small to medium businesses, and cares about building the South African economy.

So far, ACDC Dynamics has assisted the following organisations: 

- Creative Kidz: ACDC Dynamics has sponsored solar systems for the Pretoria and Alberton campuses.

- Gracious Bakers: ACDC Dynamics is sponsoring a cash component to their solutions and helping them with financial terms to assist in paying for this system they need to operate during loadshedding. 

- Matrics in Antarctica: ACDC Dynamics will be educating them about sustainability and will be installing solar in the most remote place, helping to preserve our beautiful planet.

ACDC Dynamics has established itself as a specialist in solar energy, offering cutting-edge solar solutions to meet the growing demand for sustainable power sources. By harnessing the power of the sun, ACDC Dynamics empowers individuals and businesses to embrace renewable energy. With its expertise in the field and a comprehensive range of electrical and electronic products, ACDC Dynamics strives to put the power into the hands of every South African.

‘ACDC Dynamics is your Power Partner when it comes to anything electrical, especially solar. No matter the project or business, whether big or small, we can assist. We have been in the electrical field for over 40 years and we have been involved in the solar field since 2015. Our expertise, knowledge, experience and variety of products have helped to position us as the leaders within the electric and electronics space. One of our business values is to provide maximum convenience for our valued customers. As such, we have created an environment where a client can get anything they need under one roof. We can provide them with comprehensive service throughout a project, as well as aftercare service,’ said Colette Harwood, Marketing Manager, ACDC Dynamics.

‘We invite businesses in need of advice or solutions to get in touch with us and we look forward to partnering with them and supporting them to thrive in these difficult economic circumstances,’ added Harwood. ‘ACDC Dynamics can tailor-make solutions for all business’s needs and budgets, and we offer finance solutions to assist companies with payment options.’

Businesses who would like to be part of the Power Partner initiative can email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., explaining why they need solar and backup power solutions.

ACDC Dynamics
010 202 3300
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
www.acdc.co.za

Photo Caption: Themba Robin, Leanda Otto of Creative Kidz and Hykie Berg

Regent Business School, a leading institution in business education, is pleased to announce they will be offering of FREE Grade 12 Accounting Tuition at their Durban campus during the month of July 2023 to qualifying students. The tuition sessions are specifically designed to assist Matric students who are unable to afford extra tutoring, ensuring that they receive the necessary support to excel in their accounting studies.

The free tuition sessions will cover a comprehensive range of topics crucial to Grade 12 Accounting, including Financial Statements of Companies, Cash Flow statement, Statement of Comprehensive Income, Manufacturing, Statement of Financial Position (Balance Sheet), Budgets, Debtors and Creditors Reconciliation, Ratios and Audit Reports, and VAT. These sessions will provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to master these fundamental accounting concepts.

Classes will be conducted on the following Saturdays: 01 July, 08 July, and 15 July, from 09h00 to 12h00. The venue for the tuition sessions is the Durban Learning Centre, located at 35 Samora Machel Street, Durban Central. Interested students are encouraged to register early to secure their spots using the QR code below or call: 031 304 4626 or send an email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., https://forms.gle/3yAt6T45h2bW9yhc9:

Commenting on the initiative, Mr Mehboob Vally, Sales & Marketing Director Regent Business School, stated, “We are committed to education and empowering the country’s youth through knowledge. We understand that not all students have access to additional educational resources, and it is our duty to bridge that gap by offering free Grade 12 Accounting Tuition. By doing so, we hope to inspire and support students to achieve their academic goals.”

Regent Business School offers convenient and flexible learning options for students, including lectures, webinars, and tutorials. This allows students to customise their learning experience according to their individual needs and schedules.

For more information about Regent Business School’s offering as a leading private higher education institution, please go to https://regent.ac.za/

Become future ready by joining one of accredited MBAs, postgraduate qualifications, degrees, diplomas, or higher certificates! All 2023 students will receive a free Management Development Programme valued at R7000. T’s & C’s Apply.

This Release In A Tweet:

To learn more about the @REGENT_BSchool FREE Grade 12 Accounting Tuition or the scholarship opportunities, please visit www.regent.ac.za or contact the admissions department. We look forward to welcoming you at our campus soon. #EducationForImpact #BeTheFuture

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Design your Future with Regent Business School, a proud member of Honoris United Universities. You can find information about the innovative, relevant graduate and post graduate courses now available on our website, call +27 31 304 4626 or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Get Social: Follow Regent Business School on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, or YouTube.

DISTRIBUTED ON BEHALF OF REGENT BUSINESS SCHOOL by ANGELFISH PR & EVENTS.
All media queries can be directed to Annie Hodes on 083 325 4445 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

ABOUT REGENT BUSINESS SCHOOL:

REGENT is a Private Higher Education Institution with their headquarters located in the heart of the central business district and the industrial hub of Durban, with learning centres located in Durban, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, East London and Eswatini (in Manzini and Mbabane).

RBS is deeply embedded as a premier private higher education provider in Africa which strives to deliver quality academic programmes that meet recognised academic standards to its students. It does this through ensuring that all REGENT’s programmes are developed internally by its professional team, in consultation with experts from business, and leading academics. The content of programmes is kept relevant and annually reviewed to ensure currency with South African law and International trends.

RBS has developed a series of programmes that are designed to provide individuals and organisations with the management competencies and critical skills necessary to build and sustain competitive advantages in a rapidly changing and complex business environment.

RBS’s expertise has evolved through continuous research and development undertaken in delivering a range of local and international business and management education programmes. REGENT is a proud member of the Honoris United University network.

Vision

To be a leading provider of entrepreneurial, business and management education and to develop business leaders through research and innovation.

Mission

To provide accessible, affordable, and quality entrepreneurial, business and management education, responsive to the critical needs of South Africa and the African continent within the context of a dynamic global environment.

About Honoris United Universities

Honoris United Universities is the first and largest pan-African private higher education network committed to transforming lives through relevant education for lifetime success. Collaborative intelligence, cultural agility and mobile mind-sets are at the heart of the Honoris approach to educate the next generation of leaders and professionals able to impact regionally in a globalized world. Honoris combines the expertise of its member institutions to develop world-class African human talent that is competitive in today’s fast-paced, demanding and increasingly digitized labour and start-up markets.

Honoris comprises a community of 71,000 students on 70 campuses, learning centres and via on-line, in 10 African countries and 32 cities. The network is formed of 15 institutions: multidisciplinary universities, specialized schools, technical and vocational institutes, contact, distance, and online institutions. Students have an opportunity to experience exclusive partnerships and exchange programs in more than 190 universities across Europe, the United States and Asia. Over 420 degrees are offered in Medicine, Health Sciences, Engineering, IT, Business, Law, Architecture, Creative Arts, Fashion and Design, Media, Political Science and Education.

Honoris United Universities. Education for Impact. www.honoris.net

The 1 300-ha Renishaw Coastal Precinct being developed on the KZN Mid-South Coast will not only provide much-needed secure housing for local residents, but is set to reignite the local economy through several key sectors. Consisting of five nodes surrounded by conservation areas, plans are in place to develop Renishaw Coastal Precinct into a mixed-use, self-sustaining precinct with far-reaching socio-economic benefits for the local communities.

“For too long, the South Coast’s economy has lagged behind those of other KZN coastal regions and we believe this is set to change with the launch of Renishaw Coastal Precinct,” commented Barto van der Merwe, MD of Renishaw Coastal Precinct. “The return on investment and residential potential have been well-established by Renishaw Hills, the mature lifestyle estate where homes have already escalated in value by 50% in five years. But we’re anticipating much more economic stimulus for surrounding communities as the development unfolds.”

1. Job creation

During the initial construction phase, there will be massive job creation for the skilled and unskilled labour market as security villages, office parks, retail, educational, medical facilities and more take shape on the 2.6m m2 of land set aside for development. Further to this, there will be long-term staffing opportunities within these businesses once they’re up and running.

2. Local business support

Existing KZN Mid-South Coast businesses are also set to benefit from the influx of residents and visitors through Renishaw Coastal Precinct. As van der Merwe explains: “There currently isn’t sufficient footfall in the region to keep a lot of local businesses flourishing, which they really should be. We anticipate that the precinct will attract further investors into surrounding businesses, reigniting the local economy and diversifying local business offerings.”

3. Infrastructure development

The Renishaw Coastal Precinct will increase the local rates and taxes base, generating more funding for much-needed infrastructure development. As van der Merwe explains: “We have the benefit of using the KZN North Coast as a blueprint for growing infrastructure needs. We are cognizant of the need to keep the density in line with the infrastructure capacity, with 10m m2 of land converted into conservation areas for a natural buffer zone. Necessary upgrades will be made to existing infrastructure with new developments to match growing needs.”

4. Land donation

Renishaw Property Developments is in the process of donating land to the local community for their own use, ensuring Renishaw Coastal Precinct is completely inclusive. This will also serve to create valuable partnerships for future infrastructure upgrades while further bridging the economic gap.

5. Self-sustaining

Central to the development ethos of Renishaw Coastal Precinct is self-sufficiency in terms of water and sanitation.  Van der Merwe further notes that they are currently in talks with various IPPs (independent power producers) with the aim of signing an offtake agreement that also allows them to be self-sufficient with regard to power generation. This will not only benefit the residents and businesses within the precinct, but reduce the energy constraints on the local grid to offset the load-shedding requirements. 

6. Conservation

A large portion of land will be converted into conservation areas, protecting and in some cases reintroducing the indigenous coastal forest and grassland that once dominated the area, with the rehabilitation of the Mandawe Wetland already underway. This nature-based lifestyle will positively impact those within the precinct, with hiking and biking trails benefitting the larger community, and the local flora and fauna thriving beyond the precinct borders.

7. Facilities

The establishment of a school, catering to children from pre-school to matric, will be a welcome addition to the KZN Mid-South Coast. This will allow parents to educate their children closer to home, minimising the need for expensive travel while children benefit from the lifestyle offerings of the region. It is the aim that the sports facilities, medical facilities, retail and more will also benefit the community at large. 

The 1 300-hectare Renishaw Coastal Precinct offers property developers significant opportunities, with the first two sites of Node 1 now ready for development – both of which are ideal locations for secure eco-estates. Investors looking to get in early can visit www.renishaw.co.za or call Barto van der Merwe on 087 135 5555.

Dunoworx, a 51% black-owned company, was formed in March 2022 to take over the entire Cell C repair centre, which today looks after the mobile handset repairs for Cell C customers. Cell C’s Enterprise Development Fund which invests in the education and development of South African Youth, is a proud investor in the Dunoworx Learnership Program. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in driving technological advancements and revolutionizing workforce development.

As leading specialists in mobile device repairs and replacements, Robtronics/Dunoworx, is passionate about upskilling our country’s youth. This commitment was evident when the second intake of enthusiastic candidates recently embarked on an intensive 12-month Robtronics/Dunoworx Learnership Programme which will empower them to become fully qualified Mobile Phone Repair Technicians.

The skills programme is made up of well carved out modules facilitated by experienced engineers and industry moderators. Once the modules are completed the learners are placed within various parts of the business to gain practical experience.

Course modules also cover skills such as entrepreneurial skills, customer service, front desk management, personal grooming, sales skills and customer communication skills to ensure that they leave the course fully equipped and employable.

Robtronics uses their expertise in reverse logistics to ensure maximum efficiencies are consistently achieved. Led by a management team that applies their collective 45 years of experience, coupled with the effective use of sophisticated systems, Robtronics manages all variables in the after sales aspect of handset / mobile device repairs, cell phone replacements and service. It is this collective expertise which is being imparted to the students who have been selected to take part in this Learnership Programme.

Mark Robbins, MD of Robtronics commented on the company’s investment in upskilling young men and women within the device repairs sector: “Education is the future of this country and Robtronics is heavily invested in upskilling the under privileged community. We offer learnerships on how to repair mobile phones and our candidates learn every aspect of the business by working in the business so that they are fit for industry once they have completed the course. What they can take away from it will give them the ability to start their own businesses and employ other people in the future.”

Candidates who successfully completed the first inaugural Robtronics/Dunoworx Learnership Programme have been successfully employed.

Sizwe Phungwayo, who was one of the inaugural group of learnership candidates, had this to say of the opportunity: “I am so appreciative for the opportunity granted to me to partake in the Robtronics / Dunoworx 12-month learnership programme which focuses on empowering youth like me, by facilitating skills development in telecoms. It has been a great honour to be a part of this learning experience as it has carved a path for my career that has begun to take shape. I have learned a great deal and made solid life-long connections along the way. Now that I have completed the programme, I have managed to secure employment as a Junior Technician in handset repair for Samsung, a leading brand manufacturer in tech worldwide.”

Requirements for Learnership Applications

Candidates must meet the following criteria to apply for the Learnership Programme:

• Aged between 18-28
• South African citizenship
• Valid Matric certificate
• Must be able to read and write English
• Provide a valid bank account
• Must have a SARS tax number
• Submit a recent CV
• Preferably be vaccinated

Potential candidates can apply through Blue Train Group as well as SA youth.

For more information, please visit the Robtronics website https://www.robtronics.co.za/ send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 011 532 3437. Visit Robtronics / Dunoworx at 3 Sandown Valley Crescent, Sandown, Sandton.

Catch a behind-the-scenes look at our 2023 Learnership Programme intake on their induction day here: https://bit.ly/43qwXcT

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DISTRIBUTED ON BEHALF OF ROBTRONICS/DUNOWORX by ANGELFISH PR & EVENTS.
All media queries can be directed to Annie Hodes on 083 325 4445 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

ABOUT ROBTRONICS:

Robtronics is a leading provider of mobile device repairs, replacements, and reverse logistics, with an offering designed to provide customers with a seamless experience, from the initial repair request to the final delivery of a repaired device.

Their service and repair offering includes a number of features that are designed to make the process as easy and convenient as possible for their customers. These features include:

• 24/7 customer support
• Free shipping on all end user repairs
• A 3-month warranty on all repairs
• Satisfaction guarantee

The company has a team of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing customers with the best possible service. Robtronics’ service and repair offering includes the following:

• Customer contact centre for real time resolution
• Fully comprehensive damage report issued to the insurer upon inspection of the damaged device
• Automated quotation furnished to insurer within 2 hours of receipt of device
• Replacement quote sent with damage report if device not repairable
• Reverse logistics management
• Seamless customer experience
• Weekly activity reporting
• Salvage buy-backs

Owner managed Robtronics has over 20 years of experience in repairs and replacements for leading manufacturers and insurers along with a powerful web-based workshop management program that is integrated into a finance and call centre. Robtronics also has efficient inventory forecasting and management. The company is committed to building long lasting beneficial relationships with its partners with a focus on attention to detail and service delivery through highly skilled technical and customer support teams.

ABOUT CELL C:

Cell C is a 22-year-old proudly South African customer-first mobile network operator recognised as one of the country’s 30 most valuable brands, offering a wide range of voice and data products and services, whilst evolving to a techco that provides digital services, beyond data and airtime, to more than 20 million customers.

The Cell C Enterprise Development Fund aims to empower local enterprises, promote economic growth and driver sustainable development in South Africa.

To learn more about what Cell C is doing to change the lives of communities, visit www.worldofcellc.co.za

Successful property developer, Pieter Smith, bought his first property at 20. Pieter’s long-time agents, the van den Berg brothers of Just Property Prosper in Cape Town’s Northern Suburbs, asked him to share his thoughts about property investment.

After matriculating in 1997, Pieter was awarded an engineering bursary but didn’t take it up. His parents advised him that he needed to go into property if he wanted to do well financially. His mother was in property sales and his father was a contractor and developer, so Pieter had “a bit of a feeling for property”, so he started as a real estate agent at 18.   

“The agency threw me in at the deep end, and I am ever grateful to Lubba Allen, who gave me a chance.” He bought his first property in Oak Glen, Bellville, two years later. At just 20 years old, when he applied for the bond, he had to get permission from the Master of the High Court!

In 2003 - just five years after he left school - Pieter started his first development, the 106-unit Four Seasons, in Arnold Street, Strand. Since then, he has completed over 70 developments totaling around 8 500 units.

Q: How extensive is your portfolio?

A: Currently, through various entities, we own about 206 units in rental stock and an additional +/-  900 units, which are in various development stages, as well as some 11ha of industrial land.

Q: What are your thoughts on property for generating generational wealth? 

A: Over time, it is the best and easiest way to make money.  The key to success lies in timing – don’t rush things and accept that while some may get lucky, it’s best not to look for get-rich-quick schemes.

Q: What is your best advice to youngsters who dream of building a property portfolio? 

A: Work hard to put down that first deposit in your mid-20s. Then aim to add a property every 2nd year, giving you a sizable portfolio over time with limited risk.

Q: What do you think prevents people from owning their own property?

A: It’s a mindset. People think they can't afford to buy, but they can. The problem is they want more – so they rather rent a better property than what they could buy or afford for the same monthly payment. People are unwilling to sacrifice in the short term, whether on a monthly payment, luxury, or holiday.  Once they are in the rent trap, it becomes tough to own their home.  

Q: So, what sector or band should new investors look at?

A: There is never a single correct answer. In 2008 everyone thought retirement or storage was the way to go. In today's economy, in my view, the market above R3,5-million is more robust. Others would say student rentals.  There’s never a right or a wrong answer – sometimes you’re lucky, and other times you must sit out the bad times.

Q: Is gearing the magic wand some say it is? 

A: Gearing can be suitable while interest rates are low, but as we’ve seen, low rates can’t be guaranteed.  So yes, you can make money on the bank’s money, and all can be good while we are at 7 or 8% levels, but suddenly, prime is at 10.75 … I don’t think that’s favourable for gearing.

I view deals differently today compared to 20, 10, and even five years ago. I used to be very keen on taking a chance, but my children are 1, 9, and 12 this year … Everything in life comes with some risk. I prefer to have manageable risks should anything go wrong.   

Q: Where would you advise a first-time investor to look for property? 

A: The key is not to be emotional. If you buy with emotion, then you will lose out on good deals.   Keep an eye on areas close to public transport, in the low to medium price bracket, where properties attract a variety of tenants, from students to young professionals. Generally, yields are better there. 

Q: What is your advice to anyone trying to decide on a career? 

A: Ultimately, you must do what you enjoy and have fun. If your work is no longer fun, take a break and reconsider why you are doing it.

Q: Finally: what do you advise investors to look for in a property agent?

A: I enjoy working with Just Property Prosper because they know their product and the process and go the extra mile. I know I can rely on Johannes, Pieter, and Hendrik van den Berg – they have bought and sold properties themselves and are good at managing expectations. They’ve built a passionate team that gives excellent client service. I advise you to sit across from your agent’s desk and ask them what their values are or check out what they say on social media.

Take the van den Berg brothers at Just Property Prosper; you’ll find Johannes in a Facebook clip saying all sorts of things about enthusiasm and marketing experience, but what sticks out is his pride in his honesty, perseverance, and genuine care for his clients. Pieter’s service excellence and passion for creating wealth through property echo what my parents told me years ago.   Hendrik is a team player who sees himself as a “property surgeon” and a team player who takes a long-term view, like an endurance athlete (which resonates with me because I’ve just done my first Iron Man).

You also want to look at the team your property professional relies on. The van den Bergs have built a team that is completely dedicated to service excellence. Look for that.

I’m not surprised to hear that their team walked away with seven prizes at the recent Just Property national awards evening, including the Franchise Champions Award for Overall Performance. Congrats, guys!                                                                                                                   

For more information on Just Property please visit www.just.property or call (087) 004 0149

Follow Just Property on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JustPropertySA/

• Several pre-existing conditions may enable long-term economic growth and shared well-being.
• Trade has increased over the years and remains a key driver in preserving a positive trade balance.
• The Ubuntu factor is crucial to maintain synergies, connectivity and trade partnerships.
• The agenda for the just energy transition must act as the leading force to drive foreign direct investment.

 Johannesburg – May 22, 2023. Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty and the Insurance Institute of Gauteng (IIG) hosted a leadership forum for leaders within the financial services sector on May 17, 2023, at Melrose Arch in Johannesburg on the topic South Africa at a crossroads: exploring possible scenarios. The forum focused on possible scenarios for the South African economy and featured Ludovic Subran, Chief Economist at Allianz SE, and Professor Nick Binedell, Founding Director and Sasol Chair of Strategic Management of the Gordon Institute of Business Science.

Binedell urged delegates to reflect and learn from activities that led to the end of apartheid by tapping into their corporate and professional network and experience to make a difference in the country. Subran presented economic scenarios for the country and guided brokers on how they can be more resilient to continue to protect businesses and enable them to grow sustainably. 

Increase in trade

Despite the geographic distance, capacity constraints and logistical difficulties, South African trade to the heavyweights in the Northern Hemisphere has increased over the years and remains a key driver in preserving a positive trade balance. “Regardless of the challenges ahead in the banking sector related to overall transparency and the regulatory environment, banks are better positioned and supervised than regional peers, insolvencies remain broadly stable (+1% year on year as of Q1 2023), and demand for B2B trade credit solutions is likely to increase,” says Ludovic Subran, Chief Economist at Allianz SE.

ESG-oriented approach

The anticipated reduction in the global appetite for certain commodities can be offset through an ESG-oriented approach towards metals and critical raw materials, where South Africa is already a leading producer. “Trade openness must be preserved, as the average weighted tariff for South African exports is already one of the lowest among the G20 and foreign direct investment amount to more than 40% of GDP, a percentage well above that of BRICS countries. The trade balance with non-BRICS countries was also positive by USD16bn last year, compared to a trade deficit of USD6bn within the BRICS bloc – underscoring the need to maintain a wide and diversified business perimeter,” explains Subran.

The Ubuntu factor

Historically, South Africa has been able to leverage its Ubuntu factor, positioning itself as a credible interlocutor for the continent at the G20 and maintaining a historically balanced approach to global issues. “This Ubuntu factor remains key in times of geo-economic fragmentation and widening divide between economies globally and within countries, as it can enable the much-needed technology and energy shift, increase connectivity, and preserve access to markets and investment flows that are crucial to managing South Africa’s just energy transition,” says Subran.

The just energy transition

With 85% of the energy mix based on coal, the just energy transition can act as the leading force to drive foreign direct investment, create a more inclusive labor market, and reinforce the social contract. Funds need to develop these new skills are limited and must be directed efficiently to bridge existing divides in labor and education. Women account for 21% of the workforce in the coal sector and only 14% of employees in the renewables sector. However, female employees are usually better educated. For example, 67% of females at the electricity public utility Eskom hold a post-matric qualification against 49% of men.

“The investment into the just energy transition should then maintain above-average secondary school enrolment rates, reinforce qualified female labor participation, and ensure reskilling opportunities for those in need. It should enable the country to maintain a higher rate of school enrolment and less brain drain compared to other countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Equally, it should assist the country in increasing the female labor force participation, which is currently below that of SSA but elevated compared to other sub-regions. Despite widespread and grounded negativity, several pre-existing conditions and South Africa’s Ubuntu factor may enable long-term economic growth and foster shared and durable well-being,” concludes Subran.

For further information please contact:
Johannesburg: Lesiba Sethoga
Tel. +27 112147948
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

About Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty

Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) is a leading global corporate insurance carrier and a key business unit of Allianz Group. We provide risk consultancy, Property-Casualty insurance solutions and alternative risk transfer for a wide spectrum of commercial, corporate and specialty risks across nine dedicated lines of business and six regional hubs. Our customers are as diverse as business can be, ranging from Fortune Global 500 companies to small businesses. Among them are not only the world’s largest consumer brands, financial institutions, tech companies and the global aviation and shipping industry, but also floating wind parks or Hollywood film productions. They all look to AGCS for smart solutions and global programs to their largest and most complex risks in a dynamic, multinational business environment and trust us to deliver an outstanding claims experience. Worldwide, AGCS operates with its own teams in more than 30 countries and through the Allianz Group network and partners in over 200 countries and territories, employing more than 4,200 people. As one of the largest Property-Casualty units of Allianz Group, we are backed by strong and stable financial ratings. In 2022, AGCS generated a total of €11,2 billion gross premium globally.

About IIG
The Insurance Institute of Gauteng (IIG) established 27 August 1911 aims to engage and connect the short-term insurance industry in Gauteng through professional networking, education, inclusive transformation and proud affiliation. Our vision as the IIG is to be a world-class, high-performing institution that gives its members and sponsors tangible value. The IIG is about collaboration and innovation, remaining refreshed, relevant and sustainable, and working towards growth and progress. For more information, please visit our website https://iig.co.za/

Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements
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BIC, a world leader in stationery, has recently concluded its nationwide Back-to-School campaign that sheds light on the country’s alarming school dropout rates. In partnership with the Zero Dropout Campaign, BIC leveraged its campaign to raise awareness around one of the major challenges in the education sector. 

Among BIC's commitments is improving learning conditions for 250 million students by 2025, and the Zero Dropout Campaign intends to reduce South Africa's dropout rate by half in 2030. About 41% of South African learners don’t obtain a National Senior Certificate by the end of their schooling career.

The initiative was promoted by collaborating with three cast members of the Netflix series Blood & Water. The cast was responsible for selecting schools that would receive the products and leverage their social media channels to promote the campaign.

These collaborations resulted in 6,000 writing tools and R10,000 donated to three schools. Through its campaign touchpoints, BIC reached over one million people in South Africa and aims to distribute one million writing instruments

Commenting on the occasion, Lilian Henderson, Marketing Director of BIC in Southeast and Central Africa said: “Education is a cornerstone for us at BIC. Through our research, we have learned that a contributing factor to school dropouts is the lack of resources. We wanted to build on that and leverage our campaign to raise awareness around the matter as well as encourage other brands and organisations to contribute towards resolving the issue within our capabilities. We have long been active on the education front and are confident that our latest Back-to-School campaign further elevates our commitment to education in the country. This campaign is only a first step in our ongoing narrative around school dropout rates and our contribution to a more prosperous South Africa.” 

From her end, Merle Mansfield, Director of the Zero Dropouts campaign said: “The dropout rates in South Africa are alarming. Countless learners in South Africa are constantly dealing with social pressures outside of school, including raising families, staying safe, finding a sense of belonging, or even avoiding bullies. These factors all contribute to dropout rates. We are proud to work with BIC and other organisations to raise awareness around this crucial issue. Our aim is to reduce learner  dropout and provide our children opportunities to learn and prepare for their future.” 

While recent reports by the Department of Basic Education have shown an increase of over 80% in the matric pass rate last year, this percentage doesn’t accurately represent the learners dropout rates in the country, especially among learners of compulsory school-going age following the covid-19 pandemic. 

A lack of resources is often cited as a contributing factor to the school dropout rate challenge, but it is not the only one. School facilities are also a contributor to the issue. Many schools in the country are overcrowded and don’t have the required equipment, technology, or space to accommodate students. According to a Zero Dropout Campaign report titled ‘School Dropout: Context Counts’, the statistic is even higher amongst low-income communities who find it challenging to provide the necessary tools and financial support. 

The school dropout challenge cannot be fixed overnight. It needs the private and public sectors, as well as educators, to come together to propose long-term solutions that suit the socio-economic state of the country. Through its Back-to-School campaign and other initiatives planned for the year, BIC aims to continue to work with like-minded teams such as the Zero Dropout Campaign, and call on more organisations to take part in raising further awareness around the challenge and the importance of education, as well as to contribute to the solution. 

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About BIC
A world leader in stationery, lighters, and shavers, BIC brings simplicity and joy to everyday life. For more than 75 years, the Company has honoured the tradition of providing high-quality, affordable, essential products to consumers everywhere. Through this unwavering dedication, BIC has become one of the most recognized brands and is a trademark registered worldwide. Today, BIC products are sold in more than 160 countries around the world and feature iconic brands such as BIC Kids™, BIC FlexTM, BodyMark by BICTM, Cello®, Djeep, Lucky Stationery, Rocketbook, Soleil®, Tipp-Ex®, Us. TM, Wite-Out®, and more. In 2022, BIC's Net Sales were EUR 2,233.9 million. The Company is listed on “Euronext Paris,” which is part of the SBF120 and CAC Mid 60 indexes and is recognized for its commitment to sustainable development and education. It received an A- Leadership score from CDP.  For more, visitabout.bic.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, or YouTube.

About Zero School Dropout
We began as a research project funded by the DG Murray Trust in 2015 but have since grown into a national advocacy campaign with two dedicated programmes of action and a national network of implementing partners. As a knowledge hub, we have collaborated with several non-profit organisations (NPOs) to test models of intervention to prevent dropout. In this way, we are focused on identifying and demonstrating what it takes to help learners complete Grade 12 by developing policy options at a macro level as well as on-the-ground interventions. We have taken a proactive approach to addressing dropout by promoting interventions with a track record of success.

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Patrick Domburg, Eclipse Communications
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PROTEC’s 40-year celebratory events are taking shape with interest growing in the Fundraising Golf Day and the Gala Dinner – both on 9 June – which feature exciting participation by leading celebrities such as world-renowned boxing champion, Brian Mitchell; leading author, Nyimpini Mabunda; Lions Rugby legend, Pietie Meyer; and others.

Balan Moodley, PROTEC’s CEO, is upbeat about these events that will take place at Wanderers Golf Club, Johannesburg, from Friday morning, 9 June, followed by the gala dinner at PROTEA Hotel Wanderers, across the road from the Golf Club.

Moodley says, “Celebrating 40 years is a big deal for any NPO – but especially for one that has impacted the STEM career landscape so consistently throughout the decades. PROTEC can boast more than 30 000 PROTEC alumni who have passed through our programmes since 1982, and many of them have become leading lights in their respective fields. We aim to continue delivering our comprehensive educational support programme that also adds post-school readiness skills to our learners’ lives. That means we need to continue our concerted efforts to increase support for the organisation. PROTEC is wholly reliant on funding by the private sector, and the more we can raise, the more learners we can empower for successful and productive careers.”

Brian Mitchell

PROTEC has the privilege of hosting Brian Mitchell – the only South African boxer to be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame – at the Golf Day, where he and partner, Pietie Meyer, former Lions player, are ready to team up with two players to make up a strong fourball. Mitchell is a 14-time undefeated world champion, and is bringing his consummate sporting skills to the golf course.

Also on the golf course will be other pros and activities at different holes, keeping the interest in the game high throughout. Opportunities for sponsorship at different holes are still open – and can be arranged through PROTEC (contact details at the end).

Nyimpini Mabunda

The golf day will feature gifts and prizes for the top players at the prize-giving ceremony at the end of the day. From there, the golfing party will move across to the PROTEA Hotel to join other guests at the Gala Dinner. This too, promises to be a special celebration, with a jam-packed programme that includes excellent entertainment, a sporting memorabilia auction of items donated by Brian Mitchell, a keynote address by author and CEO Nyimpini Mabunda, other presentations, as well as world-class food and beverages throughout the evening.

Mabunda’s book, Take Charge, published in May 2022, traces his journey from his childhood in an apartheid-era homeland to the CEO’s office at GE South Africa. Through his career at wide-ranging organisations, Mabunda shows why he strives for continuous and active improvement in his business acumen and leadership skills – and his book offers practical insight for anyone who aims to succeed in their career, building and leading a business.

Alumni

Moodley says PROTEC is particularly reaching out to all PROTEC alumni to add their wealth of insight and support to the ongoing PROTEC programme, and to today’s and future learners who are following in their footsteps. “PROTEC has a database of past students who are involved in mentoring learners, sharing their stories with them, and supporting the programme, but we’re making every effort to attract a lot more of our alumni into the fold. Their understanding of the challenges our learners – most of whom are from disadvantaged schools and communities – need to overcome in order to achieve success means that they can offer encouragement, advice and inspiration that makes a tangible difference to the learners’ lives.”

PROTEC’s top 10 learners from the Class of 2022 earned a commendable collective 62 distinctions, which included a 100% and a 98% for Physical Sciences, and a 100% for Maths. PROTEC Altron Soweto is the Best Overall Performing PROTEC Programme of 2022, with their 27 matriculants achieving both a pass rate and bachelor pass rate of 100%.

Building STEM in SA

“We invite anyone and everyone with an interest in building the pool of STEM graduates in South Africa to attend our 40th anniversary celebratory events on 9 June in Johannesburg, to enjoy a day of golf and an evening of networking, of being inspiring and being inspired, and of sharing experiences. We look forward to engaging with you,” says Moodley.

To book

For more information or to book for either or both the events, visit www.protec.org.za or contact Awelani Khakhu on 011 339 1451 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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For media enquiries, please contact Vanessa Naudé on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via WhatsApp call on 083 271 6000.

For many families, boarding school is a family tradition which goes back generations. For other families, modern life requires work and travel commitments that make boarding for high school students a necessity. But the questions that are central to every parent’s concern are: will my child be happy as a boarder? And how do I know which boarding school will be a good fit?

First off, let’s look at five reasons why boarding may be a good thing for your child.

Collaboration, social skills and emotional intelligence.

Living with others in close proximity brings challenges that promote the development of self through introspection, metacognition, and trying out new skills in a safe, supportive environment.

Independence and effective management of time.

Utilising prep time for homework and study, following a structured schedule, taking care of one’s self, possessions and immediate environment encourages maturity. And, of course, living on campus simplifies so much as boarders can move between classes, sport and other activities without wasting time on travel.

Diversity.

Being part of another “family" that includes members who are different to you exposes students to different worldviews, promotes discussion and understanding, and helps ensure the school’s values are inclusive.

Healthy relationships with parents and family.

The teen years can be fraught, and in some instances boarding is extremely beneficial to teen-parent relationships.

Preparation for life after high school, especially for tertiary studies.

Learning to handle responsibility in a structured but safe environment, to sort out normal daily challenges independently, to be considerate and to collaborate are all skills that many South African matriculants enter university without. Established boarding students adjust to tertiary education much faster and easier.

Even with this list of positives, parents and students will still have a host of questions. Unfortunately, school brochures and campus tours can seldom provide thorough answers. Somerset College, in the Cape Winelands, attracts students from all over Africa and beyond, many of whom join the school as boarders where they have the option to do the IEB curriculum to matric, or to switch to Cambridge AS and AL Levels for their last two years.

We asked the team that is intricately involved with the daily activities of boarding life at Somerset College to share their answers to the three questions they are most frequently asked by parents and prospective boarders.

Does boarding school suit everyone?

“Different people have different needs and not all students naturally enjoy boarding”, says Ms Cindi van der Berg, Head of Girls’ Boarding at the College. While some teens love to spend time away from home and thrive on living on a school campus, others prefer their immediate family environment, she explains.

“Traits in students that tend to make the adaptation to boarding easier include high levels of independence, a strong motivation to develop social skills, a drive to participate in a variety of extramurals, and the willingness to cohabit with a variety of different people,” says Cindi.

Mr Hilton Toro is Head of Boys’ Boarding at Somerset College (where he has worked for 14 years). He adds that age also plays a large role in the suitability to board. “At College we only provide the option to board from Grade 8 and above. While there are always exceptions, students younger than Grade 8 often crave more frequent time with their family of origin.”

Tasmyn Jewell (Director of Pastoral/Academics at Somerset College) notes that “modern teens are not only navigating the developmental and socio-emotional challenges that young people face, they are also tasked with handling both internal and external expectations related to academics, sport and culture, friendships and of course social media. A boarding environment can provide a valuable sense of belonging and an additional support structure to teens.

“It is important to note however that with an increase in neurodiversity and extremely different abilities to integrate the sensory environment, some students find boarding overstimulating - especially at first,” she adds

At Somerset College, students coming into either Founders House (girls) or Vineyard House (boys) in Grade 8 go through a specialised welcome period in which they are assisted to adapt to a “family away from their family.”

Cindi suggests that if a child shows an interest in boarding, the first step is to make enquiries from a school and arrange an in-person visit. “But then don’t be afraid to follow this up with more discussions if you have concerns - don’t feel embarrassed to ask questions,” she adds.

Tasmyn agrees. “Look at as many different options as you can to find a school that provides transparency and has full support structures in place. Once you’ve decided on one school, give boarding a try for a period of time, to see whether it is suitable.”

If boarding is a “family away from a family”, what ratios should exist between

students and staff?

“A smaller hostel or boarding house is preferable,” says Cindi, “but however small or large, there should be a ratio of at least one teacher to every 15 students. At Somerset College, we keep the total number of boarders to 120. Each hostel head has six support staff or boarding house assistants - which then brings it to a ratio of 1:10. Add the school grade heads and pastoral team and it probably comes down to something like 1:5.”

Tasmyn adds: “It stands to reason that the larger an institution is, the harder it is to maintain personal contact - and in the context of adolescents, the harder it is to ensure well-being through the provision of firm boundaries.” An advantage to attending a school that provides boarding as an option, is that you get the perks that large numbers of “day” students bring on a daily basis during academics and extramurals - while the boarding house numbers remain relatively smaller and more intimate.

What about initiation practices?

“One should never blur the boundaries between the provision of healthy orientation and scaffolding, and outdated and highly destructive initiation practices, hazing and bullying,” says Tasmyn.

Hilton agrees: “All schools should condemn initiation and hazing.” (Hazing is a power-play where new members of a group or team are expected to participate in degrading or risky behaviour.) “There should also be water-tight protocols in place, which are tirelessly implemented.” Hilton adds that every student at Somerset College is aware of the expectations with regards to respect and dignity.

“We also make sure that students know what support and care systems are in place,” says Cindi. “Effective strategies involve the entire team of boarding staff, academic and pastoral staff, management, parents and of course students.”

“An ethical life attitude must be cultivated throughout life,” says Tasmyn. “Every member of society must be guided to become more aware of how they treat others. Respect and tolerance is the best way to promote another person’s sense of self and dignity.” Somerset College’s values include DIGNITY, CREATIVITY, ASPIRATION AND CONTRIBUTION. Dignity does not stand first in this list by accident, she concludes.

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About Somerset College

Founded in 1997, Somerset College is an independent, co-educational school situated on a beautiful estate in the Winelands of the Western Cape. The College offers schooling from Grade 000 (age 4) to Matric, as well as Cambridge A-levels and IEB. Boarding is available for students in the Senior School.

Somerset College offers a world-class education that best prepares students for tertiary education. The school prides itself on an ethos that allows for each student to embark on their own journey of personal growth and development of individual excellence. They aim to equip their students – through wider innovative educational initiatives, social programmes, entrepreneurial projects and their project-based ESTEAM programme (Entrepreneurship, Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) – to be global citizens who keep up with world events and take their learning with them into the real world.