The KwaZulu-Natal Head of Departments: Mrs Nelisiwe Vilakazi, Head of the Department of Social Development, Dr Sandile Tshabalala, Head of Department of Health and Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, Head of the Department of Education conducted a monitoring visit today at the kwaPata Child and Youth Care Centre.
The purpose of the visit was to evaluate the compliance of the centre with the integrated implementation of the North Gauteng High Court Order, issued on 2 August 2018.
The Court Order specifically addressed the provision of care for children in KwaZulu-Natal who suffer from severe and/or profound disruptive behavioural disorders.
With a focus on ensuring of their well being and development, the KwaZulu-Natal Government takes this matter with utmost seriousness and prioritises the rights of these vulnerable children.
The monitoring visit served as an opportunity for the Heads of Departments to assess progress made thus far in the construction of the kwaPata Child and Youth Care Centre.
By engaging in direct observation, the Department Representatives were able to evaluate the Centre’s compliance with the Court Order’s integrated implementation.
During the visit, discussions were held with the project team responsible for the construction and operation of the centre. The team provided updates on the construction progress and outlined measures in place to accommodate the specific needs of children with severe and/or profound disruptive behavioural disorders.
These discussions underscored Government’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care and ensuring the successful implementation of the Court Order.
As the monitoring visit continues, the Government of KwaZulu-Natal remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the Rights of Children with severe and/or profound disruptive behavioural disorders.
The Heads of Departments will continue to closely monitor the construction progress at KwaPata Child and Youth Care Centre to ensure compliance with the North Gauteng High Court Order.
Venue: KwaPata Child and Youth Care Centre.
Date: 20 July 2023
Operation Sukuma Sakhe means “Stand up and Build” & District Development Model (DDM) Cabinet Day held at Dannhauser Local Municipality - Amajuba District
The OSS / DDM Cabinet Day took place today, 13th of June 2023 under the Dannhauser Local Municipality.
The MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Ms Mbali Frazer, was joined by the HOD Champion, Mr Siboniso Mbhele to visit the following projects in Ward 5, with the aim to accelerate service delivery to the community.
* Mbabane Primary School;
* Sukumani Clinic;
* Community Nutrition Development Center ( DSD);
* One home one garden - Mwelase household
Community; and
* Engagement will be held at Polten Sports Ground.
The Nerve Center was at Ward 7 KwaMdakane Community Hall.
Project 1 -
Sukumani CHC the challenge is that of a generator
Project 2 - Embabane Primary School
Challenges:
No Admin Block, Computer Lab, No Library, request has been made to the Department in 2016
* Overcrowding because of insuffient floor space;
* Learners walking long distance. Learner transport is needed;
* Infrastructure renovations needed;
* Unavailability of Sanitation and recreation facilities for learners;
* Shortage of sporting facilities such as soccer and netball;
* Burglary and theft are hindrances towards school improvement;
* Deputy principal posts vacant, and other departmental heads are occupied by temporary educators;
* Request of 2 mobile classrooms;
* No issues with NSNP, learners are eating everyday;
* Access to water through borehole but it need repairs; and
* Not enough toilets especially for ECD Learners.
KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer addressed Matric Learners at Mziwethu High School.
Project 3 - 1 Home one garden Project at the Mwelase family
Project 4 - Asibambimpilo Community Nutrition Development Center
Challenges:
* The operational space is not enough
* Not enough transport to deliver food to the satellite stations.
The OSS Nerve Center was at Tramonto Boutique Hotel.
Venue: Dannhauser Local Municipality - Amajuba District
Date: 13 June 2023
The KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer in her address to the Youth Parliament Session, outlined the KZN Department of Education's transformative programmes geared towards the development of young people in the Province of KwaZulu-Natal, which took place at Ndwedwe Local Municipality.
MEC Frazer informed delegates about the KZN Department of Education's groundbreaking Operation Siyanakekela which is aimed at empowering entrepreneurs while creating job opportunities for the local young people.
"We anticipate 13 770 employment opportunities will be created across the 459 projects to be implemented," said MEC Frazer.
She also highlighted that the KZN Department of Education provides temporary employment opportunities for the Youth through PYEI initiative, with an allocated budget of R1.4 billion, which benefits over 58 000 young people across KZNDOE'S 12 Districts.
MEC Frazer assured the delegates that the Department is continuing with its efforts to eradicate pit latrines.
“Out of the 1 377 schools initially identified with pit latrines, the Department has successfully eradicated them in 1 240 schools. Construction is underway in 83 schools, and the remaining 54 schools have either been closed or deemed non-viable”, said MEC Frazer.
The issue of bullying has been a thorn in some schools in KZN.
MEC Frazer emphasised that, “The ultimate goal is to empower Learners and create an environment where all forms of bullying, whether physical or on social media platforms, are prevented. In pursuit of this goal, over 4 762 school safety volunteers have been appointed as part of the School Security Project, to prevent crime in KZN schools", said MEC Frazer.
The KZNDOE is also implementing initiatives for poverty alleviation through the allocation from the National HIV/AIDS (Life-Skills Education) Grant. The Department has undertaken the appointment of 750 Learner Support Agents who are paid a monthly stipend.
“Our Psycho-social Services Unit has developed the "BABY, NOT NOW!" Initiative, which serves as an important campaign to encourage Learners to prioritise their education and avoid early and unplanned pregnancies'" said MEC Frazer.
With regards to digital migration, the Department is making significant progress in implementing programmes aimed at equipping the Youth of KZN.
In line with the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4iR) objectives, R8.9 million has been allocated for the pilot projects of coding and robotics in various schools in KZN.
In addition the KZN Department of Education also has a 24-month Graduate Development Programme. The 2022 cohort comprises of 750 graduate interns, who have been placed at Head Office and across all 12 Districts.
Venue: Ndwedwe Local Municipality
Date: 15 June 2023
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education's Branch: IDS held a meeting today to discuss a number of critical issues.
The purpose of meeting was to address the critical issues, that will contribute to attaining the Department's Goals.
Venue: HOD's Boardroom, Truro House, Durban.
Date: 14 June 2023
South 32 donated 1 436 pairs of school shoes to deserving Learners at Aquadene Secondary and Floraton Primary Schools in the King Cetshwayo District as part of their corporate social investor programme.
KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer welcomed the generous donation of school shoes to deserving Learners.
Venue: Aquadene Secondary and Floraton Primary Schools.
Date: 13 June 2023
Operation Sukuma Sakhe means “Stand up and Build” & District Development Model (DDM) Cabinet Day held at Dannhauser Local Municipality - Amajuba District
The OSS / DDM Cabinet Day took place today, 13th of June 2023 under the Dannhauser Local Municipality.
The MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Ms Mbali Frazer, was joined by the HOD Champion, Mr Siboniso Mbhele to visit the following projects in Ward 5, with the aim to accelerate service delivery to the community.
* Mbabane Primary School;
* Sukumani Clinic;
* Community Nutrition Development Center ( DSD);
* One home one garden - Mwelase household
Community; and
* Engagement will be held at Polten Sports Ground.
The Nerve Center was at Ward 7 KwaMdakane Community Hall.
Project 1 -
Sukumani CHC the challenge is that of a generator
Project 2 - Embabane Primary School
Challenges:
No Admin Block, Computer Lab, No Library, request has been made to the Department in 2016
* Overcrowding because of insuffient floor space;
* Learners walking long distance. Learner transport is needed;
* Infrastructure renovations needed;
* Unavailability of Sanitation and recreation facilities for learners;
* Shortage of sporting facilities such as soccer and netball;
* Burglary and theft are hindrances towards school improvement;
* Deputy principal posts vacant, and other departmental heads are occupied by temporary educators;
* Request of 2 mobile classrooms;
* No issues with NSNP, learners are eating everyday;
* Access to water through borehole but it need repairs; and
* Not enough toilets especially for ECD Learners.
KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer addressed Matric Learners at Mziwethu High School.
Project 3 - 1 Home one garden Project at the Mwelase family
Project 4 - Asibambimpilo Community Nutrition Development Center
Challenges:
* The operational space is not enough
* Not enough transport to deliver food to the satellite stations.
The OSS Nerve Center was at Tramonto Boutique Hotel.
Venue: Dannhauser Local Municipality - Amajuba District
Date: 13 June 2023
The KZN Department of Education's HOD, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo together with Top Management visited King Cetshwayo District together with Umkhanyakude District to monitor progress in the implementation of the District Academic Improvement Plan and offer support to districts / circuits and schools.
Amongst the attendees were members of the Extended MANCO, Subject Advisors, Principals of T40 Schools and Principals of T75 Schools with Grade 12 enrolment of plus 100 Learners.
Venue : Brackenham Primary school, King Cetshwayo District.
Date : 12 June 2023
The KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer today held a briefing session first at Weneen Primary School.
Thereafter, MEC Frazer met with Inkosi Mthembu to discuss the latest developments regarding the local traditional leadership’s request for the construction of a new high school in the deep rural area of Sahlumbe, located in Weenen, under the uThukela District.
Currently, Sahlumbe Secondary School is the only high school in the area and is facing challenges due to overcrowding caused by the increasing demand.
During the meeting, MEC Frazer engaged with Inkosi Mthembu and his delegation from the Mthembu Royal House, where she was addressing various issues related to the construction of the state-of-the-art Inkosi Mkhuphukeli Secondary School.
Following the discussions, MEC Frazer announced that the construction of Inkosi Mkhuphukeli Secondary School will commence on 15 June 2023.
"The total cost for the construction of Inkosi Mkhuphukeli Secondary School amounts to R74 million," stated MEC Frazer during the meeting.
"Inkosi Mkhuphukeli Secondary School will comprise of 20 classrooms, 4 multipurpose or specialist rooms, a media center, a computer room, team teaching facilities, a spacious administration block, 3 Head of Department offices, a counselling room, storerooms, garden stores, administrative storage spaces, a changing room, an NSNP kitchen, ablution facilities, a sports field, a combo court, as well as an assembly area”, said MEC Frazer."
Inkosi Mthembu expressed his gratitude for the announcement and the forthcoming job opportunities that will arise from this project. He also pledged to involve the community in safeguarding their school.
Venue: Weneen Primary School, East Street, Weenen.
Date: 09 June 2023
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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education facilitated discussion on the LRP expanded teacher guidelines for Curriculum Support and Development Specialists (CSDS), and the role of CSDS in the Learning Recovery Programme.
The aim of the programme is:
• To ensure the delivery of quality education across the school system by realising and acknowledging the gap experienced by the sector as a result of the impact of Covid-19;
• Improving collaborative and critical guidance of the CMs with school managers; and
• Ensuring that teachers clearly understand and implement the LRP guidelines. Achieve deeper levels of learning Recovery processes, develop core tools of support to the instructional core and share the learning practices.
The rational behind this programme is a structured professional guiding pathway for recovery of content and the recovery of time lost during the Covid-19 Pandemic, manage schools effectively and the alignment of Learning Recovery Programme with national goals.
Venue : Royal Palms Hotel, Umhlanga
Date : 09 June 2023
During the UMgungundlovu District 2022 NSC Matric Excellence Awards, SBD Bussiness Systems, as one of the major sponsor, pledged to donate industrial printers to three schools, Eminyezaneni High, Doornkloof High and Ekupholeni High Schools for receiving special awards for Most Improved Matric Results.
The percentage pass rate of Eminyezaneni High School improved by 55% and Doornkloof High School by 51.8%.
Both schools received their industrial printers on Friday, 9 June 2023.
In addition to donating the printer, SBD Bussiness Systems will provide technical support to both schools, offering their technicians to service the machines at no cost for a period of two years.
The Staff of SBD Bussiness Systems decided to motivate the Grade 12 Cohort by donating pencil cases with stationery to each Grade 12 Learner.
During the handover SBD Bussiness System's CEO, Mr DT Ndlovu, former Principal of Eminyezaneni and former KZN Head of Department announced his intention to develop a strong business relationship with the schools, on condition they maintain an upward trajectory in their academic performance and pass rate.
Venue: Eminyezaneni High and Doornkloof High Schools
Date: 09 June 2023
The Department of Education in KwaZulu-Natal in partnership with Ndabase Printers and Sapphire today distributed 78 Digital devices to 36 schools in the Amajuba, uThukela and UMzinyathi Districts.
The devices will enable Educators, Teacher Librarians and Learners to access over 250 000 free books to support curriculum delivery, reading for comprehension and research.
Venue: Dannhauser Primary School, Amajuba District.
Date: 08 June 2023
The KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer was the Keynote Speaker at the official launch of the MTN & DOE Special School Training Centre Rollout State-of-the-Art Customised Multimedia Centre at the S Das Special School.
MEC Frazer together with MTN Foundation officially cut the ribbon and unveiled the plaque at S Das Special School, marking the official opening of the State-of-the-Art Customised Multimedia Centre.
As part of the donation from the MTN Foundation, the school is getting a digital skills training installation of Multimedia Centre, digitised content which includes data and connectivity provisioning to enable access to the internet as well as maintenance, technical support of legacy and Learner ICT Training.
Venue: S Das Special School in Phoenix.
Date: 08 June 2023
The KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer was the Keynote Speaker at the official launch of the MTN & DOE Special School Training Centre Rollout State-of-the-Art Customised Multimedia Centre at the VN Naik School for the Deaf in Newlands.
MEC Frazer together with MTN Foundation officially cut the ribbon and unveiled the plaque at VN Naik School for the Deaf, marking the official opening of the State-of-the-Art Customised Multimedia Centre.
As part of the donation from the MTN Foundation, the school is getting a digital skills training installation of Multimedia Centre, digitised content which includes data and connectivity provisioning to enable access to the internet as well as maintenance, technical support of legacy and Learner ICT Training.
"As Government, our resources are currently strained and that is why partnerships such as this one between our Department and the MTN Foundation are crucial in addressing the educational needs of learners with special needs.
It is through these collaborations and collective effort that we can bridge the digital divide and provide equal opportunities for all our learners.
Programme Director, on behalf of the people of KwaZulu-Natal, I want to say “SIYABONGA KAKHULU” to the MTN Foundation for their generous donation worth a staggering R6 million.
This contribution serves as a powerful symbol of this organisation’s consistent commitment to enhancing the quality of education in South Africa. It also serves as a shining example of corporate social responsibility and the power of working together for a common goal", said MEC Frazer.
Venue: VN Naik Special School in Overport
Date: 08 June 2023
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The KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer was the Keynote Speaker at the official launch of the MTN & DOE Special School Training Centre Rollout State-of-the-Art Customised Multimedia Centre at Daydawn Special School in Overport.
MEC Frazer together with MTN Foundation officially cut the ribbon and unveiled the plaque at Daydawn Special School, marking the official opening of the State-of-the-Art Customised Multimedia Centre.
As part of the donation from the MTN Foundation, the school is getting a digital skills training installation of Multimedia Centre, digitised content which includes data and connectivity provisioning to enable access to the internet as well as maintenance, technical support of legacy and Learner ICT Training.
Venue: Daydawn Special School, Overport in Durban
Date: 08 June 2023
KZNDOE's Learners from Ningizimu Special School in Montclair, Durban, will participate in the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, Germany.
They will represent South Africa in a Basketball and Ladies' Soccer Games.
This Olympic World Games event will take place from 17 to 25 June 2023.
KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer wishes the Learners the best of luck in this sporting event.
Venue: Ningizimu Special School
Date: 06 June 2023
The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer in her capacity as the uThukela District Champion, today attended the Water and Sanitation Imbizo held at eMathendeni Sports Field, in the Mhlumayo area, under the Alfred Duma Local Municipality.
The Imbizo was hosted by the National Minister of Water and Sanitation, Mr Senzo Mchunu and was attended by leaders and community members from various parts of the uThukela District.
Speaking during the event, MEC Frazer highlighted the plight of the thousands of community members who have been subjectd to inconsistent water supply for the past several years. She said this has not only disrupted businesses but also some of the educational facilities who could not operate optimally as they faced dry taps for sometimes, weeks at a time.
During his address, Minister Mchunu committed that his Department will fast track its interventions aimed at ensuring communities across the UThukela District will be consistently supplied with clean water in the near future.
"Your presence here today Minister Mchunu has restored the hopes of the people of the uThukela District. We are sincerely grateful to our ANC-led Government for swiftly responding to the calls of the people of the uThukela District," said MEC Frazer.
Venue: eMathendeni Sports Field, in Mhlumayo area, under Alfred Duma LM
Date: 05 June 2023
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education with DBE and Care & Support for Education and Learning held a consultation session
with the Department to stakeholders, senior officials and district officials held at Anton Lembede School of Excellence, to engage with the two documents as recommended by[ HEDCOM] and [CEM] to carry out localised consultation and advocacy on the two documents.
Department of Basic Education initiated this session following various complaints of discrimination on issues pertaining to inequality, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, expression, and Sex Characteristics in schools.
This session aims to ensure that schools become inclusive centres of learning care and support as per the oparational framework of the basic education sector on care and support for Teaching and Learning as the Department of Basic Education prioritises learner wellbeing.
The Head of Education Department committee [HEDCOM] and the Council of Education Ministers released the protocol for the elimination of unfair discrimination in schools. These two documents are to be a verifying instrument that takes into account the broad legislative and policy framework of Basic Education to empower schools with knowledge and skills to deal with cases of discrimination in schools.
Venue: Anton Lembede School of Excellence, La Mercy, North of Durban.
Date : 02 June 2023
The National Prosecuting Authority in collaboration with the KZN Department of Education, the Department of Social Development, South African Police Services (SAPS) and Trulife (NGO) hosted an Anti-Bullying Campaign to create an awareness on Verbal, emotional, physical and cyber bullying in schools.
All the neighbouring primary schools participated in this educational campaign. Trulife had prepared an educational dramatic play to educate learners about bullying and how to stop being a victim of bullies by reaching out.
Speaking on behalf of the KZN Department of Education was the Head of Communication, Mr Muzi Mahlambi.
The KZNDOE’s uMlazi District Director, Mrs Busi Metu Mahlambi also addressed the Anti-Bullying Campaign.
Venue : Nelson Mandela Youth Centre, Chatsworth.
Date : 02 June 2023
KZN DOE and Penreach NGO Officially Launched a Partnership to Hand-over Tablets in the Umkhanyakude District
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education and Penreach (NGO) have today officially launched a partnership with the aim of transforming the lives of learners who are currently enrolled in the Early Childhood Development Centres in the uMkhanyakude District.
This is inline with the Department's Constitutional mandate to provide quality education to all Learners.
As espoused in Goals 10, 14 and 24 of the Action Plan to 2019 – Towards the Realisation of Schooling 2030, the goal is to ensure that Learners are enrolled in appropriate, functional, well-resourced, and well-run schools.
The Departments’ partnership with Penreach is also in line with the South African National Development Plan 2030, which states that there must be provision of quality education a year before children enter Grade 1.
When providing quality education across all Grades in the education system, the responsibility of the Department is to coach, mentor, train educators and school managers to deliver quality education to children from Grade R to Grade 12.
Delivering her Keynote Address during the Launch, MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Ms Mbali Frazer said, “Collaborations and partnerships with organizations such as Penreach are not only welcomed but essential to bridge the gap and achieve our goals as the KZN Department of Education”.
“It is partnerships and collaborations, such as the one we celebrate today, that will help us bridge the gaps and propel our education system forward,” MEC Frazer added.
The partnership between the KZN Department of Education and Penreach will lay a solid foundation for important programmes like capacity building for ECD practitioners.
As part of the first initiative, 100 tablets were distributed to selected ECD Centres in the UMkhanyakude District.
The tablets will come preloaded with storybooks and assessments specifically designed for ECD Learners.
The dignitaries present at the Launch included, MEC Frazer, Umkhanyakude District Municipality Mayor, Mr Siphile Mdaka, Umkhanyakude Education District Director, Mr Thanduyise Motha, King Cetshwayo Education District Director, Mrs Welile Nzama and Penreach, CEO, Mr Andile Ncontsa, who had the opportunity to visit and interactive with staff manning Penreach Exhibition and Demonstration stands.
The stands consisted of magic squares, towers of Hanoi, steady hand game, crazy cross for Maths, Science as well as, coding and robotics.
Venue: Khulani Special School, in Hluhluwe (Umkhanyakude District)
Date: 2 June 2023
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s HOD, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo together with Top Management visited the Ugu District today.
The purpose of the visit was to access the progress made in relation to the 2023 Academic Improvement Programme and to give support and assist to improve the percentage pass rate.
A new target was set for the 2023 NSC Examinations Results.
A comparison was made between the 2022 first term results and the 2023 first term results to see if there was an improvement in the pass rate.
The Ugu District has been the number one leading District for the past 4 years in a row and has represented KwaZulu-Natal in the National Top 10.
Amongst the attendees at the meeting were the Management Committee of the District, Principals of Schools that had a high entrance level of 100 or more candidates in 2022 and achieved less than 70%.
Venue : Ugu District Offices.
Date : 31 May 2023
The KwaZulu-Natal Legislature hosted the Childrens' Parliament at the Legislature Building today, 31 May 2023.
The theme for this year is, “Taking action to protect nature and human lives from the impact of climate change.”
Children that participated in the 2023 Childrens’ Parliament were selected from various High Schools in the Province of KwaZulu-Natal.
The main objective of the Children’s Parliament is to provide an opportunity for children to voice the issues affecting them and to encourage children to be part of deepening democracy through debate.
This programme is the perfect platform for the children to articulate their understanding of issues and to sharpen their debating skills for current and future challenges.
Childrens’ Parliament also aims to afford children an opportunity to experience parliamentary procedures and debates, that will empower them to become future politicians and it will further promote networking amongst schools in anticipation of ongoing and long-lasting partnerships in future collaborations.
The MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Ms Mbali Frazer was amongst the Members of the Executive Council, who attended the Children’s Parliament.
Venue: KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature
Date: 31 May 2023
The KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer wished the Arboretums’ Sharks Robotics Team, representing South Africa the best of luck in their upcoming International Competition to take place in the United States of America.
MEC Frazer was speaking at a send off function of the Sharks Team and sponsors held today, in Richards Bay, in the King Cetshwayo District.
She expressed her deepest gratitude to the sponsors of the Sharks Team for their commitment to education and belief in the potential of the young learners.
MEC Frazer was satisfied, that the Sharks Team was a balanced combination of brilliant and talented young boys and girls.
Sponsors of the Sharks Robotics Team took the opportunity to motivate the learners ahead of the upcoming Robotics Competition.
MEC Frazer joined the sponsors in acknowledging and motivating the great achievement of the Sharks Robotics Team.
“Embrace this golden opportunity, to learn, grow, and forge lasting connections with your peers around the world.
Most of all, go out there and show them the brilliance and potential that South African learners possess”, said MEC Frazer.
The Arboretum Sharks Robotics Team had the opportunity to practically demonstrate their talent in full view of all stakeholders.
They will be competing with 95 teams across the world in June 2023 Competition to take place in the USA.
Venue: Arboretum Primary School, Richards Bay, King Cetshwayo District
Date: 30 May 2023
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education together with the Department of Basic Education jointly hosted a KwaZulu-Natal Indaba to introduce and discuss the National Framework for Rural Education Draft Plan.
Leading the Indaba was the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education's HOD, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo accompanied by Senior Officials of of the Department.
Vanue: Khulani Special School, Umkhanyakude District.
Date: 26 May 2023
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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education partnered with the Themba Njilo Foundation with the aim of curbing the scourge of social ills, namely, teenage pregnancy, drugs, intercommunal factions and the push to improve the school's academic performance.
Motivational Speakers formed part of the programme, which, included Author Scelo Mncube, young business woman and fitness enthusiast, Ms Nolwazi Njilo and Selu the renowned Slam Poet.
Speaking on behalf of the KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer was the Uthukela District Director, Ms Popi Mokoena, who thanked the Themba Njilo Foundation for their initiative.
Ms Mokoena urged the learners to resist succumbing to peer pressure, resulting in teenage pregnancy and drug related incidences.
"Previously this school was labeled as an underperforming school.
I am pleased to announce last year, Wembezi High School obtained a 100% pass rate in the 2022 National Senior Certificate Examinations.
It is our duty as the Department of Education to protect such schools, so that it continues to achieve great results," said Ms Mokoena.
The Themba Njilo Foundation also distributed school shoes and sport kits to the deserving Learners.
Venue: Wembezi High School in the Uthukela District
Date: 25 May 2023
Day 3 - The KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer together with the KZN Department of Education HOD Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo attended the 2023 ABC Mostepe South Africa Schools Choral Eistedford
held at the Bethsaida Ministries International.
The Eistedford theme is, "Building South Africa together, no one left behind".
The competition aims to promote different music genres and art forms in school.
MEC Frazer was proud of the Learners participating in the KZN Provincial ABC Motsepe South African Choral Eisteddfod.
She hailed and motivated learners, that were taking part in the Provincial ABC Motsepe South African Choral Eisteddfod currently underway in Durban.
Learners from various schools in the Province of KwaZulu-Natal are currently participating in provincial opera and classical music championship ahead of the National 2023 ABC Motsepe SASCE Competition.
Addressing the Learners today, MEC Frazer, said "Participating in the Eisteddfod is a rare opportunity to showcase your talent and it is possible for you to have a successful career in the music industry, just like the previous winner, Nontobeko Bhengu, from our Ilembe District.
Nontobeko’s efforts culminated in winning the prestigious title of Best National Soloist in the ABC Motsepe Schools Choral Eisteddfod. Her remarkable achievement earned her a well-deserved bursary to study music, opening up a world of possibilities for her future,” said MEC Frazer.
She further expressed her deepest gratitude to the educators, choirmasters, composers and adjudicators for making the event possible.
Venue: Bethsaida Ministries International, Phoenix
Date: 22 - 25 May 2023
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education Officially Handed-over Information Computer Technology, (ICT) and School Library Resources to Kwangubeni Primary School in Ngubeni under the uMngungundlovu District in Pietermaritzburg today.
Principals of the three Districts, namely, uMgungundlovu, Ugu, and Harry Gwala received green bags outlining guidelines, writing pads, and laptops as a token of appreciation for improving the levels of reading by Learners.
The Buzz word for the day was "Reading."
The handover is part of the KZNDOE'S Strategic Plan, that was implemented since 2020 to 2025.
The purpose is to benefit Learners through technologies and gadgets thereby, improving their reading.
Principals were advised that, these assets should not gather dust but serve a purpose as they can be used in every subject.
The District Operations Chief Director for the Coastal Cluster, Mrs Thembelihle Gumede in closing said, "As the Department, we are here to help you as we are looking forward to see improvement in your studies especially in Language and Mathematics. It is compulsory in KZN that each school should have a Reading Lesson."
Venue: Kwangubeni Primary School
Date: 25 May 2023
Today, the KwaZulu- Natal Department of Education conducted the Establishment of the Provincial Representatives Council of Learners (RCLs) Structure.
The launch took place at Northwood High School in Durban North, under the Umlazi District.
The District Operations Chief Director for the Coastal Cluster, Mrs Thembelihle Gumede welcomed all the guests, the stakeholders involved in the election process and also outlined the purpose of the event.
The Head of Department, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo was the Keynote Speaker on behalf of the MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Ms Mbali Frazer.
This important School Structure called Representative Council of Learners, RCL means the representative body of learners of a school, as envisaged by Section 11 of the South African Schools Act, 1996 (Act No. 84 of 1996).
Venue: Northwood Boys High School, Durban North.
Date: 24 May 2023
Today the KZNDOE’s Transversal Team Meeting met on the establishment of the third focus school / academy in the KZN Province in the Amajuba District.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education Members of Senior Management and Members of the Amajuba District held a Transversal Meeting to discuss the underlying issues implicated with the establishment of an Engineering and Technology Focus School in the Amajuba District.
Venue: Hutten Park Primary School- Amajuba District.
Date: 23 May 2023.
The MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Ms Mbali Frazer as the Champion of the UThukela District welcomed the Post Budget Imbizo hosted by KZN MEC for Finance, Ms Peggy Nkonyeni held in the INkosi Langalibalele Municipality today, 23 May 2023.
MEC Frazer had the opportunity and pleasure to welcome, KZN MEC Nkonyeni and everyone who attended today’s Post Budget Imbizo.
During her welcoming remarks, MEC Frazer outlined few challenges that are being experienced by the community and assured them, that those service delivery issues will be resolved.
“Our community of INkosi Langalibalele Municipality experience a serious shortage of water supply and we in the Provincial Government, will put in place the necessary interventions, that will help speedily resolved this matter”, said MEC Frazer.
MEC Nkonyeni hosted the Post Budget Imbizo after she received a call for intervention from Saziso Shabalala, a community member of ward 14 in Ntabamhlophe.
During the Post Budget Imbizo, members of the community were further given the opportunity to express their service delivery concerns and they were provided with responses to their concerns.
Venue: Umdwebu Sports Field, INkosi Langalibalele Municipality
Date: 23 May 2023
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education's Chief Director: District Operations Management, Coastal Cluster, Ms TA Gumede held a special MANCO Meetings in the uMlazi District to personally congratulate, Mrs Busi Metu Mahlambi as the Newly Appointed District Director in the uMlazi District at 09H00 and Mrs Welile Nzama as the Newly Appointed District Director in the King Cetshwayo District at 14H00.
The purpose of the MANCO Meetings was to formally introduce the newly appointed District Directors, following the announcement and congratulatory messages made by the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, the Honourable, Ms Mbali Frazer.
Venue: uMlazi District and King Cetshwayo District
Date: 23 May 2023
Day 1
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education is hosting the Schools' Choral Music Competition under the auspices of the South African Schools' Choral Eisteddfod (SASCE).
The SASCE Competition will include schools competing from circuit level to crown the provincial winners.
The following categories were conducted on Day 1.
Category: Foundation Phase (Grade 3-4)
Western - Stand by Me.
Category: Foundation Phase (Grade 3-4)
Boys Choir: Rhythm of Life.
Category: Foundation Phase (Grade 3-4)
African: Kumnandi Esikolweni
Venue: Bethsaida Ministries International, Phoenix
Date: 22 - 25 May 2023
The KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer was the Keynote Speaker at the Escoledians Reunion held at Esikhawini TVET College.
Teachers and former teachers who are alumni of Esikhawini College of Education gathered to celebrate and reminisce on the days when they were part of the institution.
MEC Frazer expressed her gratitude to the teachers at the Escoledians Reunion for their dedication to duty.
She told former students of Esikhawini College that they are a testament to the power of education to transform lives.
“Let us honour their legacy and the rich history of Esikhawini College by becoming advocates for quality education, mentors to the next generation, and champions for change within our educational institutions”, said MEC Frazer.
The celebration was also attended by former lecturers and rectors.
They motivated each other and committed themselves to continue the good work in their different spheres of life.
The day concluded with the alumni donating pairs of school shoes to the King Cetshwayo District, that will be distributed to the needy learners.
Venue: Esikhawini College of Education
Date: 20 May 2023
The MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Ms Mbali Frazer attended the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) Meeting, which took place at Umgungundlovu TVET College’s Plessislaer Campus in Pietermaritzburg today, Friday 19 May 2023.
The Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Paul Mashatile, in his capacity as the Chairperson of the Human Resource Development Council, Chaired today’s meeting as his first official meeting, under his leadership as the Deputy President of Republic of South Africa and Chairperson of the HRDC.
During his opening address, Deputy President Mashatile remarked that, “Education does not only open the doors to a learning environment but it is a better tool for being a better citizen and a better human being”.
The principal of Umgungundlovu TVET College, Ms Ntshangase described this TVET as the institution of choice for provision of skills, especially to Early Childhood Development (ECD) practitioners who have not been properly trained after the ECD integration within the Department of Education.
The meeting was also attended by Dr Blade Nzimande, Minister of Higher Education, Ms Angie Motshekga, Minister of Basic Education, Ms Nomalungelo Gina, Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Economic Development and Ms Nomusa Dube-Ncube, Premier of the Province of KwaZulu-Natal.
Deputy President, Mashatile later led the signing of the social compact on Foundation Learning and Social Compact for Skills for a transformed economy and society.
Venue: Umgungundlovu TVET College, Plessisslaer Campus, Pietermaritzburg.
Date: 19 May 2023
The MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Ms Mbali Frazer attended the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) Meeting, which took place at Umgungundlovu TVET College’s Plessislaer Campus in Pietermaritzburg today, Friday 19 May 2023.
The Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Paul Mashatile, in his capacity as the Chairperson of the Human Resource Development Council, Chaired today’s meeting as his first official meeting, under his leadership as the Deputy President of Republic of South Africa and Chairperson of the HRDC.
During his opening address, Deputy President Mashatile remarked that, “Education does not only open the doors to a learning environment but it is a better tool for being a better citizen and a better human being”.
The principal of Umgungundlovu TVET College, Ms Ntshangase described this TVET as the institution of choice for provision of skills, especially to Early Childhood Development (ECD) practitioners who have not been properly trained after the ECD integration within the Department of Education.
The meeting was also attended by Dr Blade Nzimande, Minister of Higher Education, Ms Angie Motshekga, Minister of Basic Education, Ms Nomalungelo Gina, Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Economic Development and Ms Nomusa Dube-Ncube, Premier of the Province of KwaZulu-Natal.
Deputy President, Mashatile later led the signing of the social compact on Foundation Learning and Social Compact for Skills for a transformed economy and society.
Venue: Umgungundlovu TVET College, Plessisslaer Campus, Pietermaritzburg.
Date: 19 May 2023
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education's
ELITS Directorate today handed-over 90 Digital Devices to 45 schools in the King Cetshwayo, Umkhanyakude and Zululand Districts.
The Digital Library Devices will allow schools to access 250 000 free books using any device that will support curriculum delivery, reading with comprehension and research.
In total, almost 1 300 devices have been delivered to schools across the Province of KwaZulu-Natal, to speed up access to the Digital Library.
This project has been successful through a partnership with Ndabase Printers and Sapphire Stories.
Venue: Mtubatuba Primary in the Umkhanyakude District.
Date: 18 May 2023
The KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer was the chief guest of honour and speaker at the NSC Examinations 2022 Matric Awards Ceremony held at Phezukomkhono High School.
In her address she hailed the educators and top achievers for their sterling academic performance in the 2022 National Senior Certificate Examinations.
"I am satisfied with the progressive improvement of the Matric pass rate of Phezukomkhono High School.
The school has come a long way from a pass rate of 48.93% in 2016.
Over the past 7 years the school has been improving and obtained a 83% pass rate in 2018, and 94,7% in 2022.
We are grateful to the educators, learners, parents for the excellent job done and all the stakeholders who have been involved in helping the school improve its academic performance,” said MEC Frazer.
She took the opportunity to encourage educators and learners to work towards obtaining a 100% pass rate in the 2023 NSC Examinations.
I know that you can do well in your Matric Examinations and enrol at universities to further your studies. I am confident, that you will become the best doctors, teachers, lawyers and engineers including other professions of this country.
When you have achieved all of that, never forget where you came from,” remarked MEC Frazer.
After receiving a report indicating that the school has a challenge of overcrowding, MEC Frazer directed Department Officials to deliver two mobile classrooms, latest by Friday, 19 May 2023.
Venue: Phezukomkhono High School, Ilembe District in KwaMaphumulo
Date: 11 May 2023
The principal of Ilanga Secondary School, Mrs Hadebe S Pat Nganekie secured 12 Jojo Tanks kindly sponsored by TCE Plastics.
She was over the moon by this kind donation received today, on her first day at work after her special leave, bereavement period.
She wrote to TCE Plastics requesting Jojo Tanks to secure fresh water for her learners.
Venue: Ilanga Secondary School
Date: 09 May 2023
Day 2 - The Council of Education Ministers (CEM) Workshop continued deliberations on its theme, 'Focusing on Infrastructure Delivery'.
Adding value to the Workshop dialogue was the KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer.
Also present was the KZN Department of Education HOD, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo.
Venue: Cape Town International Convention Center.
Date : 04-05 May 2023
Oversight visit and monitoring of Sibhakabhaka Combined School with regards to its Academic Improvement Plan by the MEC'S Rapid Respond Team, was directed by the MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, the Honourable, Ms Mbali Frazer.
The visit was in response to Khuzani ' Khuba' Mpungose an International Muskandi Musician who raised his concerns about the poor academic performance of the school in the 2022 National Senior Certificate Examinations.
The international star hails from this school. A team from Head Office met with all stakeholders including education officials from the Nkandla CMC to offer full academic support in terms of addressing the basic school functionality.
On the agenda for discussion included matters concerning school management, curriculum management and school governance with the intention to pursue and deliver quality public education.
Venue: Sibhakabhaka Combined School
Date: 04 May 2023
Today, the Minister of Basic Education, Ms Angie Motshekga hosted and Chaired the Council of Education Ministers Workshop held at the ICC in Cape Town
The theme of the CEM Workshop was, 'Focusing on Infrastructure Delivery'.
Attending the CEM Workshop was the KZN MEC for Education, Ms Mbali Frazer
The Workshop was divided into 6 sessions with the following topics, namely:
Energy, water and sanitation
Lessons learnt from monitoring infrastructure delivery;
Upkeep and maintenance of Basic Education Sector infrastructure; and
Education Sector infrastructure Planning and Delivery.
Venue: Cape Town International Convention Center.
Date : 04 May 2023