Government to host workshop on racism
15-NOV-05
The WCAR was held under the theme “Towards Reconciliation and Nation Building: Is the Nation in Dialogue?”.
The workshop will form part of the process to finalise the consolidated National Action Plan to respond to the national and international obligations arising from the WCAR.
The action plan would also respond to the commitments made at the 2000 National Conference Against Racism.
The departments of Foreign Affairs, Arts and Culture, Education as well as Justice and Constitutional Development are spearheading the preparations.
Also part of the organising team is the Presidency, government communications (the GCIS) and the SA Human Rights Commission.
Government spokesperson Joel Netshitenzhe said yesterday that about 300 delegates from various sectors were set to participate in the workshop.
“It is envisaged that in conjunction with the celebration of the tenth anniversary of the country’s Constitution next year, further interactions will be held to finalise the action plan and intensify implementation of its various elements,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mr Netshitenzhe said Cabinet was briefed about efforts to lure many people into the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children.
“It was noted that the joint efforts of government and communities would be further strengthened by the finalisation of the Sexual Offences Bill,” he said.
He said the campaign would be extended beyond 16 Days to incorporate other initiatives such as the Arrive Alive campaign, while paying attention to substance abuse.
Cabinet has also approved a policy framework for the administration and governance of public sector institutions.
This, Mr Netshitenzhe said, included a classification framework, governance, shareholder interests, human resource management as well as financial management.
“Arising from this discussion, legislative proposals to effect the policy framework will be brought to Cabinet for consideration.
“These matters will also be handled in line with proposals on Shareholder Compacts, including Financial Distribution and Capital Structure Policies,” he said.
Thapelo Sakoana – BuaNews
