19-MAR-13·	Role of universities explored
	Posted by | development
	When it comes to the relationship between universities and their environments it is important to establish the responsibility and objectives of these higher education institutions in the societies they serve, especially in South Africa.

08-MAR-13·	Adults receive English and Maths training
	Posted by | development
	To help individuals build a foundation for further training and development Triple E Training offers English and Mathematics training at various levels to unemployed adults in the Nelson Mandela Bay area.

24-JAN-13·	Committee to monitor transformation at varsities
	Posted by | development
	An oversight committee has been selected to advise minister Blade Nzimande on policies pertaining to racism, sexism and other forms of unfair discrimination in universities while promoting social cohesion.

24-JAN-13·	‘My Future, My Career’ gets a boost from NYDA
	Posted by | development
	Learners from grades nine to 12 will receive the opportunity to gain insight into a wide range of career options through the ‘My Future, My Career’ project which provides secondary school learners with career education screenings in cinema complexes.

07-DEC-12·	Establishment of two new universities forging ahead
	Posted by | development
	With the aim of improving access to higher education and alleviating the pressure in many of the over-crowded higher learning institutions, two new universities will be erected in Mpumalanga and the Northern Cape,

13-NOV-12·	Development finance crucial in Africa
	Posted by | development
	The need for development finance in Africa is huge, and will continue to grow, mirroring the need for infrastructure development, micro-finance, small business finance and project development, says Professor Meshach Aziakpono.

09-NOV-12·	Deconstructing construction finance to build stronger contractors
	Posted by | development
	There are promising prospects for companies in the construction industry, in light of government's infrastructure development plan, but also several dangers. Here are some common mistakes to be avoided by small construction firms when pursuing big projects.

05-NOV-12·	Limpopo places over 390 jobseekers
	Posted by | development
	Government's labour initiative has successfully placed 390 job seekers in employment positions. This is the result of the Job Fair and Job Summit where employers were urged to make use of the system to register their employment opportunities and outsource suitably qualified job-seekers.

09-OCT-12·	Over R3.6bn committed to Jobs Fund projects in first year
	Posted by | development
	The R3.6 billion Jobs Fund will be used to run enterprise development projects support work seekers and build institutional capacity. The primary objective of the fund is to create permanent and short-term jobs for the unemployed.

08-OCT-12·	Govt to address infrastructure development though PICC
	Posted by | development
	The 20-year infrastructure plan developed by the Presidential Infrastructure Commission is expected to put infrastructure development back on the correct trajectory and boost economic growth.

19-SEP-12·	National infrastructure plan only a pipe dream?
	Posted by | development
	Government is not spending and although there appears to be a lot of planning taking place in terms of infrastructure development the physical manifestation is just not happening. CESA's bi-annual survey reveals the blockages to government's ambitious vision.

06-AUG-12·	Smallholder farms creating jobs for women
	Posted by | development
	The job creation initiative known as the Ezemvelo Direct Farm Programme, is expected to help government fight inequality, poverty and boost food security in South Africa, according to Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson.

25-JUL-12·	Industrialisation key to Africa's development
	Posted by | development
	Although Africa is the next growth frontier, the continent's development needs to be characterised by industrialisation, says Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies. The partnership between China and Africa is expected to contribute to economic performance by African countries.

18-JUL-12·	Labour dept weighs in on fatal Mpuma crash
	Posted by | development
	The deaths of 26 workers during a recent vehicle accident followed by the failure on the part of their employer to provide accurate employee records has underlined the ongoing non-compliance with the various prescripts of labour legislation.

12-JUL-12·	Ray of hope for desperate job seekers
	Posted by | development
	Approximately 96 000 job seekers were assisted in their search for employment through the Public Employment Services division. The Department of Labour is calling for national collaboration in order to continue this level of support.

05-JUL-12·	Repairs for oil, gas rigs could create 5 000 jobs
	Posted by | development
	One of the biggest development opportunities that had been identified in the maritime sector was that of positioning South Africa as a centre for ship and oil rig repair and maintenance.

22-JUN-12·	Township youth: ticking time bomb or potential workforce?
	Posted by | development
	Are the bored and unemployed youth in Gauteng townships a ticking time bomb waiting to explode or a possible 240 000 strong potential labour force? With this in mind the Gauteng provincial government is committing to twenty government-funded job centres.

20-JUN-12·	Decent work pivotal to economic growth - Oliphant
	Posted by | development
	Decent employment remains central to the job creation initiatives and skills development programmes launched by the Department of Labour, which forms part of government’s efforts to boost economic development.

14-JUN-12·	Legal advisory committee initiated by APPETD
	Posted by | development
	Training providers who wish to join the Legal Advisory Committee of the Association for Private Providers of Education, Training and Development (APPETD) are welcome to apply. The committee seeks to address and give legal advice to private providers in the education and training sector.

08-JUN-12·	A basic definition of leadership, expanded
	Posted by | development
	'It would be foolish to think that anyone can be made a leader by simply sending them on a course, programme or bootcamp' ,says Anil Salick. He provides a breakdown of the qualities and attributes of a true leader.

05-JUN-12·	Honeymoon over for developing nations as G20 faces tough news in Mexico
	Posted by | development
	Executives will need to keep prices low and look at long term gains rather than short term wins if they hope to survive current competitive markets, but real economic growth requires 'imagination and innovation' says Liza Van Wyk.

21-MAY-12·	Transnet looks to create more jobs
	Posted by | development
	Transnet's total contribution to employment is expected to be increased by 54.8% as a result of a R300 million market demand strategy over the next seven years which will see the roll out of new infrastructure across the country.

21-MAY-12·	SA needs social consensus, jobs to cut inequality - Patel
	Posted by | development
	If the country is to overcome inequality, South Africans have to reach a consensus on both workers' wages and executive pay rates and speed up the creation of more jobs, Economic Development Minister Ebrahim Patel .

17-MAY-12·	APPETD makes huge strides in 2012
	Posted by | development
	The major shift of skills development to the newly established Department of Higher Education and Training has impacted the way private providers of education and training do business. Ms Rooksana Rajab, CEO of the Resonance Group of companies comments on this shift.

04-MAY-12·	Partnerships key to creating jobs in tourism
	Posted by | development
	Up skilling labour and creating jobs in the tourism sector can be greatly enhanced if government works together with the private sector and other industry stakeholders. These were the sentiments of Minister of Tourism Marthinus van Schalkwyk during his Budget Vote speech.

03-MAY-12·	Business confidence declines in April
	Posted by | development
	The unstable and weakening condition of the business environment was reflected in the Business Confidence Index (BCI) which dropped to 94.3 points, the lowest in three years according to the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

26-APR-12·	SA pushing for BRICS Development Bank
	Posted by | development
	The DevelopmentBank by the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) grouping, is expected to supplement the existing efforts of multilateral and regional financial institutions for global growth and development.

25-APR-12·	'More effective IDC increases loan approvals by 35%
	Posted by | development
	The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) has increased its turnaround time for approval of loans to businesses and has increased loans approvals by over 35%, the Minister of Economic Development Ebrahim Patel said in his Budget Vote speech.

24-APR-12·	Agriculture plan to create jobs
	Posted by | development
	Job opportunities for women and youth in the Gauteng region will increase when the Labour Intensity in Agriculture Plan is set in motion. "The labour intensity plan has a vision of creating decent work and an inclusive sustainable economy" ,says MEC Nandi Mayathula-Khoza.

16-APR-12·	SA economy improving: Gordhan
	Posted by | development
	Despite the damaging effects caused by economic uncertainty South Africa’s economy is improving and its growth is stable according to Minister of Finance Pravin Gorhan. The minister’s comments come ahead of the G20 meeting which is expected to address the European crisis.

13-APR-12·	The ties between South African and Australian economies
	Posted by | development
	A mismatch in skills continues to hamper both Australian and South African industries. While both countries are predicting the shedding of many jobs this year, many industries are looking abroad to fill positions where skills are lacking.

12-APR-12·	Africa is the new growth hub – Zuma
	Posted by | development
	Africa is experiencing economic transformation which is expected to improve the standard of living for all Africans. These were the sentiments of President Jacob Zuma at the 4th International Trade and Investment Conference.

22-MAR-12·	SA pledges to help Indian companies, create jobs
	Posted by | development
	Two Indian companies will move their operations into South African territory. The businesses have received support from the Department of Trade and Industry in effort to aid skills development, job creation and technological development in the country.

12-MAR-12·	Business incubators commended for growing enterprises
	Posted by | development
	Business incubation has been identified as a key component of economic transformation, however small businesses first need to stabilise and become sustainable before they can start creating jobs according to SMME specialists.

05-MAR-12·	Grim outlook in resolution of Eurozone problems
	Posted by | development
	Global economic turmoil has left financial experts at a loss to find even the slightest glimmer of hope. Despite these dire predictions Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan believes there are opportunities available in South Africa.

02-MAR-12·	Govt making strides in creating jobs in rural areas
	Posted by | development
	The Expanded Public Works Programme amongst other job creation initiatives has been lauded by government for the positive contribution it has made on employment through creating 540 423 work opportunities and 137 525 permanent jobs.

01-MAR-12·	State plan could net up to 100 000 jobs in construction
	Posted by | development
	Government hopes to sustain between 50 and 100 000 jobs in the construction sector as it rolls out the country’s large scale infrastructure plan announced by President Jacob Zuma during the State of the Nation Address.

28-FEB-12·	Mothers would make the best managers in our scholar transport systems
	Posted by | development
	Providing reliable transport for the estimated 560,000 scholars across South Africa who are forced to walk to school every day is proving to be a major challenge. Mannie Hirsch says the answer lies with the mothers of the children.

20-FEB-12·	E Cape sets 2012 job creation targets
	Posted by | development
	Despite positive reports of job creation across the country the Eastern Cape's unemployment rate remained ominously high at 27.1%. In view of this sobering statistic the Premier aims to create 116 958 jobs in the coming financial year.

16-FEB-12·	African economic governance improving – Davies
	Posted by | development
	There has been an improvement in economic governance across the African continent and now the only challenge facing Africa is to create sustained growth channels by engaging in new ventures which will boost and expand regional integration.

15-FEB-12·	Prasa to invest R136bn on trains, infrastructure
	Posted by | development
	The project to upgrade and develop new train stations is expected to create about 65 000 job opportunities. Railway agency, Prasa will spend R136 billion on the initiative allocating R13 billion to infrastructure development alone.

14-FEB-12·	Govt pins hope on community jobs
	Posted by | development
	The Expanded Public Works Programme, which has proven to be effective in the fight against poverty will form the foundation of governments plan to create over 1.5 million job opportunities in the next two years.

13-FEB-12·	Call for comments on NEEDU Bill
	Posted by | development
	The National Education Evaluation and Development Unit Bill (NEEDU), which was published in 2011 is open for discussion and the Department of Basic Education is inviting all education stakeholders to submit comments.

13-FEB-12·	Zuma, business raise funds for trust
	Posted by | development
	South Africa will not be able to realise its development goals as long the majority of its children are excluded from accessing tertiary education said President Jacob Zuma, as he urged business leaders to pledge financial support to underprivileged children.

09-FEB-12·	Business confidence falls in January
	Posted by | development
	Business confidence fell to its lowest level since May 2010 dipping from 99.1 in December to 97.1 points. Lower economic growth, unemployment, higher inflation and weak municipal service delivery are some of the various challenges that could cloud the economic and business outlook for the year.

07-FEB-12·	Government injects R2 billion in job creation
	Posted by | development
	The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) is set to invest R2-billion alongside the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) with the aims of providing funding to businesses in order to create and save jobs.

03-FEB-12·	NYDA presents youth report
	Posted by | development
	The status of the education, health and wellbeing of the young people in South Africa was recently brought to light when the NYDA published a document which addresses these and other pertinent youth issues.

02-FEB-12·	Basic Education’s efforts pay off
	Posted by | development
	Despite the challenges facing education in the country, the Department of Basic Education has managed to scoop Public Sector Excellence Awards across the three spheres of government, government agencies, parastatals and NGOs.

01-FEB-12·	New technology revolutionises tertiary education in SA
	Posted by | development
	The call for virtual universities has been answered by the latest technological tool called the Telefunken Tablet PC. The device is able to store pre-loaded learning material, a function that will forever change the landscape of tertiary education in South Africa.

30-JAN-12·	Education: the missing piece of the puzzle?
	Posted by | development
	A lot of emphasis has been placed on the education system and skills development, which has incidentally become one of the country's top priorities, but is education really the answer? Liza van Wyk talks about the role of education in society.

27-JAN-12·	Budget tips for Gordhan
	Posted by | development
	South Africans are encouraged to participate in the national budget for 2012 by sending suggestions to Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan on what should be included in the budget. This fiscal policy determines how government will spend its funds over the next three years.

26-JAN-12·	Women more critical of global crisis
	Posted by | development
	A worldwide research study analysing female perspectives on the global crisis has shown that women accountants are more critical of responses to the global economic crisis and are also likely to be more negative and less trusting of the financial crisis than their male counterparts.

23-JAN-12·	SA economy receives skills injection
	Posted by | development
	The immense shortage of skilled personnel in the country is being addressed through FET colleges and private institutions. As universities reach capacity prospective students are urged to consider other higher learning options to meet the demand for skilled professionals.

23-JAN-12·	ASDSA hits ground running in 2012
	Posted by | development
	While confidence in the education and skills development system is at an all time-low ASDSA's newest CEO, Janelle Gravett is determined to redefine public perceptions through its repositioning campaign and initiatives that will coalesce top professional bodies in skills development.

18-JAN-12·	Transforming Seta grants
	Posted by | development
	The proposed changes which appeared in a recent government notice are set to transform the skills development landscape. Des Squire provides a brief overview of these changes and the impact they will have on skills development grants and other related matters.

17-JAN-12·	Cabinet to discuss year ahead
	Posted by | development
	The four day strategic planning session which is set to provide the basis for President Jacob Zuma’s State of the Nation Address has commenced and Cabinet has begun its mammoth task of developing the national agenda.

17-JAN-12·	SEZs to drive regional industrialisation, boost jobs
	Posted by | development
	Economic development plans which include stimulating industrialisation in special economic zones (SEZs) are expected to attract foreign investment and boost job creation according to Minister of Trade and Industry Rob Davies.

16-JAN-12·	Professional bodies to launch skills "confederation"
	Posted by | development
	Three major role-players in the skills development industry have united to improve governance and standards of practice among frontline workers and are calling on other likeminded entities to join the initiative in order to lobby more effectively.

13-JAN-12·	Sadtu pens development plans for teachers
	Posted by | development
	The training and development of educators has been listed as the number one priority in 2012 according to the South African Democratic Teachers' Union (Sadtu). The union hopes to achieve this goal by implementing quality training programmes and addressing some of the ethical issues in the training of teachers.

11-JAN-12·	Unemployment, poverty, inequality need attention
	Posted by | development
	As the ANC celebrates its 100 years of existence, the triple challenge of unemployment, poverty and inequality which primarily affect Africans, women and youth has been identified as the foremost concerns of the country according to President Jacob Zuma.

09-JAN-12·	Skills transfer needed for local growth
	Posted by | development
	Apprentice training topped the agenda when Minister Alan Winde met with German CEO's and businessmen at an event hosted by MTU South Africa. The participants assembled to discuss the possibilities of skills transfer and investment in the local labour force.

09-JAN-12·	SA in dire need of engineering practitioners
	Posted by | development
	Despite skills shortages in the engineering industry a decline in both public and private sector projects means that companies are unable to increase their intake of new graduates, a sad reality for South Africa as infrastructure development is central to job creation and economic growth.

13-DEC-11·	A case for the preservation of short courses
	Posted by | development
	Are short courses an asset to the skills development landscape or do they detract from the learning process? Des Squire looks at the value short course and skills programmes bring to the education platform.

08-DEC-11·	Business confidence declined in November
	Posted by | development
	The real economic environment has remained positive, but business confidence took a knock in November due to the depreciation of the rand and inflation, said the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

07-DEC-11·	Trainer offers Microsoft boot camps
	Posted by | development
	Bytes Peoples Solutions, a provider of internationally accredited education, training, skills development and people consulting services within the Bytes Technology Group, has put together a series of Microsoft Certification “boot camps” for experienced IT professionals.

06-DEC-11·	Ten commandments for economic growth
	Posted by | development
	Economic growth is central to the transformation and the future of the Country. Mannie Hirsch provides several fundamental principles for any society that wants to drive economic growth.

05-DEC-11·	Addressing the asymmetries of knowledge
	Posted by | development
	Former President of South Africa, Mr Thabo Mbeki will present te keynote address to open the Knowledge Management Conference hosted by the University of Stellenbosch Business School (USB). The conference, which will span over three days, will address the asymmetries of knowledge in society.

30-NOV-11·	SA’s GDP grows by 1.4%
	Posted by | development
	Despite the 1.4% growth in local Gross Domestic Product the rate was lower than expected, due to poor performance in the mining and manufacturing sectors. "Slower growth will make it difficult for government to reach its target of creating 5 million jobs by 2020" said Standard Bank economist, Thabi Leoka.

29-NOV-11·	Nzimande calls for better governance at Setas
	Posted by | development
	Poor governance and corruption have been identified as two pressing issues that Sector Education and Training Authorities (Setas) would need to improve if the entities hoped to recreate a positive public image, according to Minister Blade Nzimande.

28-NOV-11·	Siyakha promotes World Disability Day
	Posted by | development
	World Disability day was established to bring awareness about the plight of disabled persons in society who currently comprises 15% of the world’s population. Siyakha Consulting shares some more sobering statistics about the effects of disability.

24-NOV-11·	Edublox make learning fun for Hout Bay learners
	Posted by | development
	More than 20% of South Africans are faced with learning disabilities but research shows that brain training exercises helps children learn and read faster. Learning institute Edublox, has introduced a bursary program for learners with learning disabilities in less fortunate communities.

24-NOV-11·	E Cape school infrastructure to improve
	Posted by | development
	The Department of Basic Education has set aside a total of R8.4 billion to improve the infrastructure of various schools around the country, addressing issues which negatively affect learning such as no electricity, overcrowding and a shortage of teachers.

23-NOV-11·	Quality learning campaign on track
	Posted by | development
	The education project intiated by government aims to monitor the interaction and performance of teachers and learners in order to 'mobilise society on education' said Project Director Tula Nkomo.

21-NOV-11·	Strategy to address low literacy, numeracy rates
	Posted by | development
	The Council of Education has approved an Integrated National Literacy and Numeracy Strategy as part of the Basic Education Department’s response to the need for urgency in addressing the low achievement levels of learners in literacy and numeracy.

18-NOV-11·	Cosatu, business back govt’s Green Accord
	Posted by | development
	The Green Economy Accord which aims to create 30 000 jobs in the green economy sector in the next 10 years has been welcomed by the Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu).

18-NOV-11·	Green Accord to create 300 000 jobs
	Posted by | development
	Government and its key partners, such as labour and business, have signed an all-comprehensive Accord geared to create 300 000 jobs in the next 10 years. The signing has signalled a united front as the COP17 climate talks in Durban draw near.

17-NOV-11·	Research to give insight into SA economy
	Posted by | development
	A new research report on South Africa, expected to be released next year, is to provide unique insight into the workings of the country’s economy, says the Department of Trade and Industry.

17-NOV-11·	Manuel’s Plan to change people’s lives
	Posted by | development
	The National Development Plan Vision 2030 will address nine challenges that the country faces including education, which it aims to improve through the establishment of a national skills system and the expansion of Further Training Colleges.

16-NOV-11·	New wage subsidy under discussion: Motlanthe
	Posted by | development
	Discussions on the proposed youth wage subsidy are underway with key stakeholders to address joblessness in the country revealed Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe.

14-NOV-11·	Zuma praises National Development Plan
	Posted by | development
	The first National Development Plan in South Africa is set to redefine the lives of its citizens by eradicating poverty, reducing inequality and combating the high unemployment rate by the year 2030.The plan has been commended by President Jacob Zuma.

10-NOV-11·	Sasol embraces International Year of Chemistry
	Posted by | development
	Under the unifying theme “Chemistry—our life, our future”, the International Year of Chemistry (IYC) 2011 has offered a range of educational opportunities which have boosted science education across the world. Sasol brought the dialogue home to South Africa by hosting projects which brought chemistry to life by demonstrating the important role it plays in peoples’ daily lives.

09-NOV-11·	Zuma positive about jobs for youth
	Posted by | development
	With frustration increasing among South Africa’s unemployed youth, President Jacob Zuma has promised that things will improve soon, as government continues to look for ways to create jobs and restore the dignity of many dejected South Africans.

07-NOV-11·	Create jobs, alleviate poverty, Zuma urges farmers
	Posted by | development
	Emerging farmers in the Piet Retief region in Mpumalanga have been urged to use their farms to create jobs and alleviate poverty by President Jacob Zuma during his address to the local community, announcing that agricultural projects were key to job creation.

07-NOV-11·	SA encouraged by G20 plans for growth, jobs
	Posted by | development
	The G20 have committed to the Action Plan for growth and jobs which aims to alleviate unemployment particularly among the youth, according to President Jacob Zuma. The plan has been welcomed by South Africa as it seeks to transform the economy through these avenues.

03-NOV-11·	Skills fund under fire for not spending
	Posted by | development
	Officials have criticised the National Skills Fund for its poor spending practices after reports revealed that expenditure for the 2010/11 financial period was over R600 million, leaving an alarming net surplus of nearly R1.5 billion.

01-NOV-11·	Unemployment eases to 25%
	Posted by | development
	South Africa’s unemployment rate decreased to 25% in the third quarter from 25.7% in the second quarter of 2011, said Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) as it released its Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS).

01-NOV-11·	Zuma upbeat on jobs
	Posted by | development
	President Jacob Zuma remains positive that the new regulations under the Preferential Procurement Act, which come into effect in December, will help government meet its job creation targets.

01-NOV-11·	Improve mining skills base, says Oliphant
	Posted by | development
	Skills gaps in the mining sector are being addressed by major industry roleplayers, including the Mining Qualifications Authority who has committed to meeting skills targets through comprehensive training programmes. Young people have been urged to pursue careers in the mining sector, particularly health and safety.

31-OCT-11·	BRICS ministers tackle agricultural issues
	Posted by | development
	Representatives from the BRICS countries are meeting a second time to discuss ways of combating global hunger through agricultural developments, against the backdrop of unpredictable climate changes. The ministers have pledged their commitment to various food production initiatives.

31-OCT-11·	Create the right skills mix in IT
	Posted by | development
	Effective software support requires a combination of IT skills and domain knowledge which can only be created by recruiting the best possible skills sets for the job according to management solutions and HR firm, Accsys.

27-OCT-11·	Provincial projects to create 90 000 jobs in agriculture
	Posted by | development
	The Department of Agriculture, Foresty and Fisheries hopes to create 90 000 new jobs a year through the submission by provinces of over 140 project plans for job creation projects, says the Minister of Agriculture, Foresty and Fisheries Tina Joemat-Pettersson.

27-OCT-11·	SA must focus on sizeable youth population - Dlamini
	Posted by | development
	With the world population estimated to reach seven billion the government has reasserted the importance of investing in education and skills for South Africa’s youth while providing young people with job opportunities and access to health care.

24-OCT-11·	Mismatch between education and skills persist
	Posted by | development
	The latest report shows that educated South Africans are not immune to the unemployment plague currently stripping the country. This is a 'reflection of a growing mismatch persistent in the labour market' says labour market specialist Abrahams Mutedi.

24-OCT-11·	Cities get clean for job creation
	Posted by | development
	With South Africa working towards creating five million jobs by 2020, towns and cities around the country are cleaning up their act and generating employment opportunities at the same time.

20-OCT-11·	IBSA demands UN transformation
	Posted by | development
	Leaders from the IBSA bloc have reaffirmed their commitment to increase the participation of developing countries in the decision-making bodies of multilateral institutions, including the United Nations Security Council.

19-OCT-11·	Business must take advantage of IBSA
	Posted by | development
	Business has been encourage to take full advantage of the opportunites created by the India, Brazil and South Africa (IBSA) alliance, a trilateral developmental initiative between the three countries aimed at promoting South to South cooperation and exchange.

19-OCT-11·	IBSA leaders recommit to objectives
	Posted by | development
	The emerging economies of India, Brazil and South Africa (IBSA) have agreed to greater coordination between the three countries with regard to issues around climate change, economic cooperation, sustainable development and the UN Security Council.

18-OCT-11·	Editors agree to intensify IBSA coverage
	Posted by | development
	Editors from India, Brazil and South Africa have agreed to increase the flow of information between governments and the media in order to highlight the growing political and economic relations between the three countries.

18-OCT-11·	Improved trade relations between IBSA countries
	Posted by | development
	The trilateral development initiative which incorporates India, Brazil and South Africa (IBSA)has performed well against its targets by improving trade relations amongst the three countries according to Department of Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies.

17-OCT-11·	Energy regulations to boost job creation
	Posted by | development
	The new Energy Efficiency building regulations will create an estimated 18 000 jobs and contribute positively to government’s goal of creating five million jobs by 2020 when it is implemented in November.

17-OCT-11·	GP looks to do business faster, smarter
	Posted by | development
	Government will focus on ironing out bureaucratic processes that hinder private sector investments and has invited business to report incidents of key projects being delayed as a result of red tape says Economic Development Minister Ebrahim Patel

14-OCT-11·	Training staff the right way
	Posted by | development
	Does your company expect and demand results from every training initiative? Learn how to ensure employees transfer learning principles to the work situation and deliver on performance expectation every time by following these tips.

14-OCT-11·	R72m project to upgrade financial skills at municipalities
	Posted by | development
	A unique R72 million public-private partnership, designed to bring about minimum standards of competence for municipal financial staff, was unveiled in Johannesburg by Dr Blade Nzimande, the Minister of Higher Education and Training.

13-OCT-11·	Continental cooperation needed to create jobs
	Posted by | development
	African countries need to find new and improved methods of cooperation at regional and continental level to ensure complementary economic and social policies that create decent work opportunities.

12-OCT-11·	R14 million enterprise development project gets underway
	Posted by | development
	The BHP Billiton enterprise development project valued at R14 million aims to offer local entrepreneurs a comprehensive development programme and world class entrepreneurial coaching and guidance to 'grow successful, profitable and, most importantly, sustainable businesses.'

11-OCT-11·	Skills programme pays off for Mpuma youth
	Posted by | development
	498 graduates have been recognized for their 12-month artisan training at the National Youth Service skills development programme which provides opportunties for unemployed youth to contribute to their communities, while improving their skills, education and employment propects.

11-OCT-11·	Developing a culture of learning
	Posted by | development
	Do you enforce training or create an atmosphere of learning in the workplace? If you are battling to gain support from employees your approach to skills development may be the problem. Des Squire argues that 'for training to be effective there must be a perceived need in the minds of the recipients.'

10-OCT-11·	Motlanthe visits War on Poverty projects
	Posted by | development
	Government needs to intensify its fight against poverty if South Africa is to meets its Millennium Development Goals Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe has conceded and state-funded community driven projects would be instrumental in defeating this national enemy.

04-OCT-11·	Private training providers attend 2011 skills conference
	Posted by | development
	Issues such as post school education and training, the role of SETAs in relation to the National Skills Development Strategy III implementation, and the SETA funding models will be addressed by Minister Blade Nzimande alongside representatives of business, labour, community and providers at the 2011 skills conference.

03-OCT-11·	HRD Expo to open doors
	Posted by | development
	The annual Human Resource Development Expo endorsed by The Star will launch its biggest show to date when it opens its doors on Tuesday 4 October at the Sandton Convention Center. The event will bring together a network of over 90 exhibitors alongside HR, training and business solutions professionals.

03-OCT-11·	Private sector encouraged to ‘buy local’
	Posted by | development
	The private sector has been urged to follow in government’s footsteps and commit itself to buying and using domestically-produced products as part of the job creation strategy, which Deputy Minister Tobias-Pokolo believes is critical to providing local employment opportunities.

30-SEP-11·	Zuma wants more job creation
	Posted by | development
	President Jacob Zuma has admitted to encountering a number of setbacks to reaching government’s goal of creating five million jobs by 2020 and has called for greater enthuision and renwed commitment to this project.

30-SEP-11·	Roleplayers in one accord over education
	Posted by | development
	The signing of the Accord on Basic education marked an historic moment in education as it signified the start of a collaboration between role players, stakeholders and social partners to support the drive to achieve quality teaching and learning in South Africa.

30-SEP-11·	Siyandza skills public course
	Posted by | development
	Siyandza Skills Development is an accredited, full service call centre training and middle management training provider that was created to bridge the gap in these industries through its unique training methodology.

22-SEP-11·	Calls for faster development of African languages
	Posted by | development
	Higher Education and Training Minister Blade Nzimande has challenged academic institutions to move speedily in making the development of African languages a reality in the country’s universities.

22-SEP-11·	Rural educators receive accreditation
	Posted by | development
	Footprint has partnered with the ETDP Seta and Green Rainbow to help community based educators become fully fledged accredited facilitators using an online electronic portfolio of evidence which saves costs and speeds up the assessment process.

22-SEP-11·	Artisan programme promises jobs for youth
	Posted by | development
	The fears of at least 98 students have been laid to rest by Public Works Deputy Minister, Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu when she personally committed to ensuring that the students participating in the Artisan Development programme would receive employment once the training has been completed.

22-SEP-11·	Increasing the skills pipeline for economic growth
	Posted by | development
	Skills shortages within the engineering and IT sectors is one of the major impediments to economic growth, and the key to reducing unemployment as Sandra Burmeister says 'each skilled professional has the capacity to create jobs on an exponential basis.'

14-SEP-11·	Global competition will benchmark artisans
	Posted by | development
	Team SA is ready to battle it out at the 41st WorldSkills Competition where 1 000 artisans from 50 countries will compete for the top honours in their trade, the contest is ideal for benchmarking skills across the globe and South Africa is currenlty ranked 47 out of the 54 participating countries.

14-SEP-11·	Africa gears up for HRD Expo
	Posted by | development
	The three day Human Resources Development expo hosted by The Star will bring together HR, training and educational professionals to share the latest insights, solutions, technologies and services that will add value to the skills development industry.

01-SEP-11·	Reaching a 2020 goal
	Posted by | development
	The Open Learning Group has received provisional accreditation which is part of its Vision 2020 strategy, allowing students to gain entry at various points on the NQF learning path while enabling clients to upgrade their service by investing in an employee’s skills set through the workplace skills plan.

01-SEP-11·	Empower your workers with new skills
	Posted by | development
	Upskilling employees increases productivity and staff morale while expanding the skills pool in the organisation, and training in booking keeping, project administration, customer service and computer literacy can make a huge difference to the overall performance of staff.

30-AUG-11·	Thousands benefit from over 200 ECD centres
	Posted by | development
	The newly launched Early Childhood Development (ECD) awareness campaign has started bearing fruit, with more than 200 new centres being registered with thousands of children receiving subsidies.

30-AUG-11·	SA faces development challenges - Davies
	Posted by | development
	South Africa may have institutions that meet world class standards but business should not lose sight of the fact that SA is not a developed country and has yet to overcome challenges that are developmental in nature such as poverty, inequality and unemployment said Minister Rob Davies.

25-AUG-11·	Job Vacancies at Department of Health and Social Development
	Posted by | development

24-AUG-11·	Idasa commends support for emerging farmers
	Posted by | development
	Idasa's Public Expenditure and Smallholder Agriculture Project has welcomed the Land Bank's commitment to spend R1 billion on emerging farmers in the next two years to promote rural employment, build value chain development and encourage investment in agriculture.

23-AUG-11·	Renewed focus on SA teachers
	Posted by | development
	The education department has started campaigning for fresh young talent to join the teaching profession through the Funza Lushaka Bursary initiative in an effort to strengthen the education system, and equip the South African labour market with the right skills.

19-AUG-11·	Skills development starts at school
	Posted by | development
	Skills development should begin at school level if SA hopes to combat skills shortages in the country according to Mashumi Tutu, who says that business must partner with educators to 'address the core competencies and leadership skills necessary for economic growth'.

17-AUG-11·	Internships aid skills development initiative
	Posted by | development
	Internships are being used as a 'mechanism to upskill the technology-challenged society' and aid the e-government initiative which aims to boost skills development in South Africa in the wake of a huge technological gap between market needs and the actual skills set of the working class.

11-AUG-11·	Global warming a threat to livelihoods
	Posted by | development
	During a consultative dialogue on Women and Climate Change in Limpopo Minister, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane promised to make the role of women central to the climate change challenge as women 'are the propellers and carriers of development' she said.

10-AUG-11·	Men and women join against gender crimes
	Posted by | development
	The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) has called for men and women to play equal roles when it comes to dealing with issues such as gender based violence and human trafficking.

10-AUG-11·	Zuma commends SA's progress for women
	Posted by | development
	President Jacob Zuma has commended the country’s progress in addressing gender imbalances and emancipation of women, saying the country has made great strides to improve the status of women since attaining democracy in 1994.

01-AUG-11·	Economic empowerment for SA women
	Posted by | development
	'Women economic empowerment' will be the focus of Women's month this year said Minister Lulu Xingwana, stating that the period would be used to emphasise the role of women as equal partners in the economic, social and cultural development of society, as well as ending economic marginalisation of women.

28-JUL-11·	How to climb the ladder
	Posted by | development
	Is your career on track? Through a successful career planning strategy and constant revision of that strategy you can achieve your career goals. According to the experts 'the great heights you wish to reach are not entirely out of your hands'.

18-JUL-11·	Freshstop endorses BEE programme
	Posted by | development
	Leading 24-hour convenience store brand Freshstop, has entered into a partnership with The Black Business Supplier Development Programme (BBSDP) which will support previously disadvantaged businessmen and women who are interested in opening Freshstop convenience stores.

14-JUL-11·	Officials address skills shortage with National Skills Accord
	Posted by | development
	The National Skills Accord and the Accord on Basic Education and Partnerships with Schools which will see R6 billion injected into skills development and education and boost training within the New Growth Path framework was officially signed by government, business and labour.

06-JUL-11·	FNB grants R2 million to enterprise development
	Posted by | development
	FNB, a founding partner of the Enablis Entrepreneurial Network in South Africa, generously awarded a R2 Million grant in support of local entrepreneurial development, capacity building and long term economic stimulation.

04-JUL-11·	Land your dream job and create real wealth
	Posted by | development
	Job security, success and building a better future are all things that people desire. But how do we attain this lifestyle? Here are a few points to consider in order to foster career and personal growth.

04-JUL-11·	Driving growth and employment in SA
	Posted by | development
	The global recovery in growth has not yet translated into a recovery in employment, CEO of the Landelahni Recruitment Group, Sandra Burmeister says we need a two-pronged approach comprised of SME support and technical skills development to address this anomaly.

01-JUL-11·	Raizcorp raises the bar
	Posted by | development
	The only privately-held business incubator on the African continent, Raizcorp has been awarded international accreditation which has raised the standard of enterprise developemnt in SA and challenged organisations where unregulated enterprise development support is being practised.

21-JUN-11·	Local investment starts with development finance
	Posted by | development
	Small and medium scale businesses require financial support and training through programmes and schemes that will assist in financing these supposedly risky, but extremely important businesses in the economy - Professor Meshach Aziakpono, programme head of the MPhil in Development Finance (MDevF).

19-JUN-11·	Education and innovation key factors in development
	Posted by | development
	The future prosperity and well-being of a country and its citizens depends on how well it educates its children, says Public Enterprises Minister Malusi Gigaba. The minister said concerted effort needed to be made in improving participation and results in science, mathematics and technology, adding that children in both urban and rural schools must have the same access to these subjects.

13-JUN-11·	Voucher project a gift to SMEs
	Posted by | development
	As part of their skills development programme directed at the SME sector many of the Setas have introduced the voucher project which allows SMMEs to apply online to their specific Seta and request funding in order to train employees on selected skills programmes.

13-JUN-11·	Mentorship makes real business sense
	Posted by | development
	Teryl Schroen, Accsys CEO, defines mentorship and shares the benefits of using this method of facilitation to enhance skills development in the workplace.

12-JUN-11·	DST and Microsoft partner to fast-track development
	Posted by | development
	The Department of Science and Technology and Microsoft South Africa have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to fast-track high-performance computing, human capital and enterprise development. The memorandum is expected to bring foreign direct investment in research and development, and to harness existing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills programmes to support knowledge-generating capacity.

02-JUN-11·	Tap into your creative thinking pool
	Posted by | development
	Are you a creative thinker? Breakthroughs in human development are not limited to famous creative geniuses, but by applying the correct learning and development methodology with sufficient intensity anybody and everybody is able to reach their full potential and affect global change according to the TACCT programme.

01-JUN-11·	SA Learning & Development managers exceed global stds despite skills crisis
	Posted by | development
	"...despite our education backlog and skills crisis, South African L&D managers have performed very well in comparison with their international counterparts on key benchmarks such as training investment, e-learning, mentoring and coaching and talent management." One of the key conclusions of this latest research collaboration between SABPP and ASTD. Be sure to read this article for further details of the report's findings and how to obtain a copy.

28-MAY-11·	Minister Dlamini to launch SA child protection week
	Posted by | development
	Protecting the nation’s young and most vulnerable will take centre stage come Monday, 30 May, 2011 as South Africa enters a seven-day show of solidarity with the cause of the country’s children. Child Protection Week will be officially launched by Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini and the objective this year is no different to previous years: looking after the children.

23-MAY-11·	Raizcorp model turns heads
	Posted by | development
	The Raizcorp enterprise development model attracted the attention of a US delegation on a mission to investigate job creation and entrepreneurship initiatives throughout Africa.While two of its incubation programmes, Arize and Partner Elite, receive international attention as best practice models for business incubation.

19-MAY-11·	Insights for South African business
	Posted by | development
	The World Development Report 2011 has found that security, justice and economics are 'inexorably linked', emphasising the need for public-private collaboration in order to develop a safe environment for all.

09-MAY-11·	Playing globally, winning locally - tourism is about people.
	Posted by | development
	Opening Indaba 2011 - Africa's biggest travel and tourism show - Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk told delegates that although much emphasis has been placed on tourism being an economic vehicle, it is also about people. Indaba 2011 is being held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre under the banner: "Playing globally, winning locally".

21-APR-11·	BEE gets a facelift
	Posted by | development
	Rob Davies, Minister of Trade and Industry, will be revising the BEE codes to ensure "greater participation by black people in productive activities and tackle complex practices of fronting". Skills Development is anticipated to be the biggest beneficiary of the re-evaluation and will certainly be worth more points.

18-APR-11·	Developing and managing 21st century contracts
	Posted by | development
	Representatives of organisational leadership recently convened in Johannesburg to discuss contract management in the 21st century. The seminar centred on identifying and implementing best practice in contract management and overcoming the challenges currently faced in optimizing contractual agreements.

17-APR-11·	Mbombela's Marapyane Educational College will be agricultural college
	Posted by | development
	As part of the Comprehensive Rural Development Programme (CRDP), about 148 rural community members have been appointed to renovate the Marapyane Educational College. Local young people are receiving training in various trades such as painting, bricklaying, plumbing, welding, amongst others, ensuring that all the work is done by the community.

06-APR-11·	New era for professional managers
	Posted by | development
	South Africa requires greater numbers of professional, world-class managers so that it can play its full role on the global stage of business and commerce. The Services SETA (SSETA) launched the Chartered Management Institute of South Africa (CMISA) on 5th April in Johannesburg, to herald the start of a national drive to develop and recognise these managers.

05-APR-11·	Launch of Strategic Planning Framework for Teacher Education and Development
	Posted by | development
	Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has launched a 15 year Strategic Planning Framework for Teacher Education and Development. Educating and developing teachers will be a top priority for the country’s education sector in the coming years. In support of his colleague, Higher Education and Training Minister Nzimande stressed the need for teachers, unions, and the education departments to work together - to bring the plan to fruition.

01-APR-11·	'Skills development paramount in SA workforce'
	Posted by | development
	Dr Mathews Phosa re-affirmed the government’s commitment to making education and skills development a top priority when he addressed prominent business people at a prestigious awards dinner held in Cape Town. He urged the public to recognize and support contributions to “upskill the South African workforce”.

24-MAR-11·	Growth starts with employees
	Posted by | development
	Is personal development in the workplace an essential part of your company vision? Tehcnological advances in an organisation may lead to bigger profits but it won't secure permanent sustainablity on it's own according to TriVector CEO, Dina Jacobs.

15-MAR-11·	Development Finance Institutions must market better to SMMEs
	Posted by | development
	Development finance institutions (DFIs) should develop communication, training and marketing strategies to better publicise the funding they offer to small businesses, concludes the Economic Development Portfolio Committee in a report tabled in Parliament.

10-MAR-11·	The role of people in organisational strategy
	Posted by | development
	Human resources versus human capital, how do you view your employees? According to Mpume Motsa, HR Manager at Xabiso Chartered Accountants, "the attraction, development and retention of people must be embraced as an integral part of the company’s strategy."

09-MAR-11·	See the fruits of your labour
	Posted by | development
	Have phrases like 'human capital', 'skills development' and 'employee training' been grabbing your eye more often than not in the media? National support for skilled employees has reached fever pitch as SA strives to combat its skills shortage while competing with highly competitive global markets.

09-MAR-11·	City of Johannesburg creates more than 150,000 jobs
	Posted by | development
	Executive Director: Economic Development at the City of Joburg, Jason Ngobeni, says that Johannesburg has already been created more than 150,000 jobs, by making use of all the opportunities created by government’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) to grow employment through labour intensive projects. Unemployed matriculants, graduates, and ex-combatants are given a range of practical skills - and the city benefits.

07-MAR-11·	Lack of skills development costs R550bn per annum
	Posted by | development
	A growing number of industry experts are advocating the benefits of on-the-job training, encouraging managers to invest in their most important resource, people. Due to the lack of skills development in the country it has now become imperative that companies do so, and in turn they will reap their BEE rewards.

21-FEB-11·	Western Cape to establish development agency
	Posted by | development
	A development agency is to be established in the Western Cape, in an effort to attract investment to the province, says Premier Helen Zille. A plan for the new agency will be given to the premier by the end of June. “Provided all the relevant processes are properly completed in time, we hope to have the agency up and running by the beginning of the 2012 financial year,” she said.

13-JAN-11·	NSDS 3 is now on the table
	Posted by | development
	Minutes ago, Higher Education and Training Minister Blade Nzimande revealed the provisions of the third phase of the National Skills Development Strategy. JIM FREEMAN focuses on some of the highlights of the document that will guide skills development for the next five years and he provides a précis for practitioners.

12-JAN-11·	Department fleshes out NSDS 3 skeleton
	Posted by | development
	Certain officials of the Department of Higher Education and Training do not seem to have had much of an end-of-year holiday. Skills Portal correspondent JIM FREEMAN got a sneak-peek at the long-awaited third phase of the National Skills Development Strategy – due to be unveiled tomorrow – and found it a lot meatier than was the case a month ago.

10-DEC-10·	EuroSkills: South Africans watch how it’s done
	Posted by | development
	A delegation from the Manufacturing and Engineering-related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA) and a research team comprising Independent Newspapers’ Workplace editor, Theo Garrun, and the Skills Portal’s JIM FREEMAN are in Portugal for the biennial EuroSkills competition.

02-DEC-10·	President Zuma disappointed in Europe-Africa partnership
	Posted by | development
	President Jacob Zuma says the economic partnership that Africa entered with Europe 10 years ago has not produced the intended results for both regions. There has been very little implementation of the undertakings, and the lack of rural infrastructure hampers Africa in marketing and delivering agricultural products.

17-NOV-10·	Land Claimants urged to use financial compensation for education & productive projects
	Posted by | development
	In the 1960s the Ribungwane people were forcibly removed from their fertile ancestral lands, losing not only their homes that were bulldozed but also most of their belongings. Now the mainly illiterate surviving direct descendants, who have chosen financial compensation are being urged to spend the money wisely, investing in their children and grandchildren's education, and in productive enterprises that will secure their future.

17-NOV-10·	Indalo Project - social enterprise development through design
	Posted by | development
	It's said social enterprise is “for dreamers with their feet firmly on the ground” and in essence that is The Indalo Project. It’s a remarkable design & social initiative that’s looking to create massive change in the world of handicraft. This new initiative - the brainchild of social entrepreneur award-winner Patrick Schofield, aims to bring together designers and handicraft producers to create unique market-oriented African ranges.

11-NOV-10·	President Jacob Zuma addresses the United Nations MDG Forum
	Posted by | development
	During the period that South Africa has been Co-chair with South Korea of the Development Working Group of the G20, they have identified a set of key interventions to improve the economic growth of developing countries. These multi-year action plans will be submitted for consideration to this G20 Seoul Summit.

08-NOV-10·	dti promotes capital investment and skills development
	Posted by | development
	The manufacturing sector stands to benefit from a new Department of Trade and Industry (dti) Tax Incentive programme that supports investment in existing and new capital projects, and the creation of direct employment within South Africa, and promotes productivity and skills development.

12-OCT-10·	Health Counselling Treatment campaign reaches hostels
	Posted by | development
	To boost the number of people who know their health status, the Gauteng Department of Health and Social Development has taken the HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT) campaign to the provincial hostels. For details ...

10-SEP-10·	Civil society organisations brief President on MDG Summit resolutions
	Posted by | development
	In preparation for the South African presentation to the United Nations General Assembly in New York later this month, civil society organisations met with President Jacob Zuma. They will report on progress towards meeting the Millenium Development Goals (MDGs), and they briefed the President on resolutions taken at the recent Summit. See full Presidential Media Statement

25-AUG-10·	AIDC announces 300 newly qualified recruits join Ford
	Posted by | development
	Premier Nomvula Mokonyane had positive news for the Gauteng legislature: the Automotive Industry Development Centre has announced 300 new recruits, who have now completed their training, will join Ford; and education authorities have registered up to 384 new Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres. For the full news report including automotive industry job retention

19-AUG-10·	SADC pushes towards Customs Union
	Posted by | development
	The 30th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) closed on 17 August 2010 with an affirmation to consolidate timelines for the establishment of the Free Trade Area (FTA) and speeding up preparations towards a Customs Union.

13-AUG-10·	SA delivers on Goal 3 of MDGs
	Posted by | development
	South Africa has delivered on Goal 3 of the Millennium Development Goals calling for the elimination of gender disparity in primary and secondary education by 2015.

11-AUG-10·	Women must take ownership of their personal development
	Posted by | development
	"Any woman working for a company that has “developed a culture of learning” and established the importance of the role women play in business is potentially blessed," writes Des Squire. "Such a company will have taken care of the development needs of all employees irrespective of gender".

26-JUL-10·	A three dimensional management development Strategy
	Posted by | development
	"Succession planning is not just intended for management succession at the higher levels", writes Des Squire. "It would normally imply an opportunity for learning what happens in other areas or departments so employees are available and pre-trained to move to a variety of positions as and when a need arises".

19-JUL-10·	Programme to create 10 000 jobs for rural youth
	Posted by | development
	An estimated 10 000 jobs are expected to be created for unemployed rural youth through a recently launched programme by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform. The National Rural Youth Service Corps (NARYSC) will be targeting youth from deep rural areas, including those living with disabilities between the ages of 18 to 35 and who have passed Grade 10.

19-JUL-10·	African Union summit kicks-off in Uganda
	Posted by | development
	The 15th Ordinary Session of the Summit of the African Union (AU) got underway in Kampala, Uganda, on Monday, under the theme: “Maternal, Infant and Child Health and Development in Africa”. As a sideline event, the Government of Uganda hosted an African Youth Forum AYF alongside the 15th AU Summit from 17-19 July under the theme “Maternal, Infant and Child Health: African Youth Call for Action.

19-JUL-10·	Training & skills development needed to avert mine disasters
	Posted by | development
	The leadership of the mining industry in South Africa agrees that training and skills development should be done on a regular basis to avert further disasters in that sector. Chief Executive Officers of the mining industry have met in Pretoria at the request of Mineral Energy Minister Susan Shabangu to discuss safety issues in the sector.

18-JUL-10·	Western Cape tooling initiative help SMEs
	Posted by | development
	The Western Cape Tooling Initiative (WCTI), in partnership with Swisscontact - a non-profit organisation founded by Swiss business and the Swiss government with the goal of stimulating growth in the private sector in selected developing countries - has developed and implemented a Market Development Programme (MDP) for the Western Cape Tool, Die and Mould (TDM) sector.

14-JUL-10·	Teacher Laptop Initiative to be launched
	Posted by | development
	After months of deliberations and planning by the Department of Basic Education, the Teacher Laptop Initiative (TLI) is set to be rolled out on 15 July 2010, with a key focus on teacher training and development in ICT, computer literacy and pedagogy.

11-JUL-10·	Hyundai contribute to youth career development
	Posted by | development
	Hyundai Automotive South Africa contribute to career development and expansion for today’s youth with an apprentice programme designed to deliver skilled school leavers.

10-JUL-10·	Use World Cup income for development-Jordaan
	Posted by | development
	World Cup organising committee boss Danny Jordaan called on the South African Football Association (SAFA) to use the millions of rands generated by the tournament to develop grass roots soccer in South Africa.

10-JUL-10·	SA Brazil Strategic Partnership Agreement includes education and skills development
	Posted by | development
	SA and Brazil have also agreed to deepen cooperation in areas such as: trade and industry, science and technology, agriculture and rural development, arts and culture, defence, education and skills development, health, sport and recreation, tourism, water and environmental affairs.

06-JUL-10·	World Cup coverage boosts SA tourism
	Posted by | development
	The positive global media coverage South Africa has received during the 2010 World Cup has exceeded all expectations and will benefit the country’s tourism industry long after the tournament ends.

05-JUL-10·	New generation managers
	Posted by | development
	Companies need to provide openings for employees to demonstrate leadership abilities. Effective succession planning includes both those who display the qualities required of leaders and those who express a desire to advance to management

30-JUN-10·	FIFA support development football
	Posted by | development
	FIDA has committed more the $70million (about R560 million) towards the development of football in Africa since South Africa was announced as a winning bidder in 2004. 53 football turfs are being built across the African continent as part of the “win in Africa with Africa” initiative.

27-JUN-10·	Are employees fixed assets or free agents?
	Posted by | development
	Retention of talent, a popular phrase, is not formally planned for and implemented as much as is needed in South Africa, given the true cost of staff turnover - replacing staff is internationally estimated at between 90 percent to 2000 percent of annual salary, so no one is easily replaced.

17-JUN-10·	Intervene now for the future, says Zuma
	Posted by | development
	President Jacob Zuma says it is important that the government ensures the youth reaps the benefits of democracy as well as all other constitutional rights they have as citizens of South Africa.

17-JUN-10·	Zuma’s message needed, say youths
	Posted by | development
	Youths in the Thulamashe Stadium in Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga, say they were inspired by the words of President Jacob Zuma during Youth Day celebrations.

14-JUN-10·	Passengers flock to get on board Gautrain
	Posted by | development
	Passengers flocked to get on board the Gautrain this weekend to see what the rage has been all about since it began operations last week. “A tsunami of about 40 000 passengers were carried on Saturday and Sunday as many Gautengers used it for a fun family outing.

03-JUN-10·	Private providers association holds NSDS 3 meetings
	Posted by | development
	Training organisation Appetd is calling all private providers of education and training to a series of consultative forums on the draft National Skills Development Strategy 3 (NSDS 3). Private training companies will be able to make comments on the document at public hearings later this month.

02-JUN-10·	Zuma arrives for State Visit in India
	Posted by | development
	President Jacob Zuma has arrived in India for talks with his counterparts aimed at strengthening and broadening commercial interactions between the two nations. Accompanied by first lady Nompumelelo Zuma and a business delegation, the president touched down at the Chatrapati Shivaji Airport in Mumbai, ahead of his state visit.

01-JUN-10·	Zuma pins Africa’s hopes on World Cup
	Posted by | development
	The socio-economic opportunities presented by South Africa hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup are for the African continent. Speaking at a celebration of Africa Day, President Zuma looked forward to the tournament contributing to peace and development on the African continent.

01-JUN-10·	Franco-African Summit kicks-off
	Posted by | development
	President Zuma joined other African leaders to criticise French President Sarkozy for inviting Niger - represented by coup leader General Salou Djibo. The summit will address Africa's role in global governance, peace and security, and climate and development.

01-JUN-10·	Success and personal Development: whose responsibility is it?
	Posted by | development
	Why do so many people feel as if the world owes them a living? Is the implementation of Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment contributing to this view? Des Squire explores issues of innovation, culture, freedom of choice, goals, empowerment, and the impact of B-BBEE.

17-FEB-10·	Gordhan should put money towards 5 priorities
	Posted by | development
	With hours to go before Pravin Gordhan delivers his maiden Budget Speech, South Africans have urged the Finance Minister to put more money towards achieving the five priorities identified by government. Gabi Khumalo reports.

01-DEC-09·	New skills and development course for pest control
	Posted by | development
	If you have a passion for keeping the environment safe and healthy and the idea of working with the earth’s weird and wonderful eight legged creatures everyday does not faze you, then you should consider a career in pest control.

12-NOV-09·	NYDA appoints new CEO
	Posted by | development
	The National Youth Development Agency has appointed Steven Ngubeni as its new Chief Executive Officer. Ngubeni, 32, joins the NYDA from the Victor Khanye Municipality in Mpumalanga where he held the position of municipal manager.

29-SEP-09·	Seta Voice debates future of Setas
	Posted by | development
	The inaugural Inter-Seta Conference is underway in Midrand. Seta CEOs, staff and stakeholders have been discussing the most effective strategies for Setas in the current economic climate.

29-SEP-09·	Economic crisis eroding SA’s employment growth
	Posted by | development
	Despite the increase in employment from 11.3 million in March 2003 to 13.6 million in March 2009 and the attendant decline in unemployment rate from 31.2 percent to 23.5 percent over the same period, the country has witnessed massive job losses in the recent months.

29-SEP-09·	Development Indicators to help govt plan better
	Posted by | development
	2009's Development Indicator's report has found an increase in SA's access to potable water, a 1 percent drop in the prevalence of HIV and AIDS, and success in the fight against malaria. Land redistribution remains a challenge, while the gap between rich and poor people looms large.

29-SEP-09·	SA making progress in reducing poverty
	Posted by | development
	Incomes of the poorest in South Africa have increased in recent years from R783 per month to R1041 per month, a recent report has stated. It also found that more than 13 million people currently receive social grants, compared with 7.87 million people who received them in 2004/05.

28-SEP-09·	Part II: ROI from training, global best practice and adding significantly to the bottom line
	Posted by | development
	The reason why there is so much misunderstanding, so many viewpoints, so many crossed wires, regarding the return on investment from training is very simple. We have failed to differentiate between the transactional and the developmental, writes Dr Malcolm Birkin.

16-SEP-09·	Employee development no gamble for Emperor’s Palace
	Posted by | development
	THETA and Media Works took a strategic decision in conjunction with Emperor's Palace to offer ABET training to all employees, permenet and contract. This has proved to be huge success as well as being popular.

08-SEP-09·	Gauteng tackles literacy, numeracy in primary schools
	Posted by | development
	The Gauteng Department of Education has embarked on a five-year strategy to tackle the underperformance of primary school learners in literacy and numeracy in the province. Education MEC, Barbara Creecy, said the strategy seeks to address many causes of underperformance.

07-SEP-09·	More children in schools - survey
	Posted by | development
	Statistics SA has announced that there are more children between the ages of 0 and 9 attending educational institutions than in previous years. However, the growth is not sufficient to meet the Early Childhood Development goals set for 2010.

01-SEP-09·	R120m to help retailers weather the recession
	Posted by | development
	W&RSeta has announced it will allocate R120 million to assist wholesale and retail sector companies and employees affected by the economic recession through the Training Layoff Scheme. Dept of Labour Guide to the Training Layoff Scheme

30-AUG-09·	Order a copy of the ebook or printed book
	Posted by | development

18-AUG-09·	Intl aviation organisation to help boost SA aviation skills
	Posted by | development
	Government and the International Civil Aviation Organisation will address the skills shortage in the local aviation industry through a training plan emphasising safety, security and development.

05-AUG-09·	University of Witwatersrand invests in skills development
	Posted by | development
	The University of the Witwatersrand has announced it will invest R1.4 million over the next year towards the further development of its financial staff through the Association of Accounting Technicians.

04-AUG-09·	Over 4 700 young people to receive development skills
	Posted by | development
	Young people are due to receive development training - which include electrical, plumbing, life skills, IT, business skills and carpentry training - as part of government's job creation and poverty eradication drive.

21-JUL-09·	Management must take control
	Posted by | development
	Managers are becoming more aware of the power of emotional intelligence and how they can use it as a management tool. Kim Kemp asks, is talent pattern development the answer for human capital challenges?

03-JUL-09·	Social security, education, firm policies to combat poverty
	Posted by | development
	Investment in human and physical assets must also be complemented by an economy that absorbs people and lays the basis for decent jobs, Minister Molewa noted while tabling her budget vote recently.

30-JUN-09·	Skills revolution gets a shot in the arm
	Posted by | development
	By working through the Setas and what is going to be called the Occupational Qualifications sub-Framework of the QCTO, learners will be able to engage in a progression of skills programmes that are academically on par with those offered by colleges and universities … all the way up to post-graduate level, writes Jim Freeman.

30-JUN-09·	Public Service Week to enhance service delivery
	Posted by | development
	Professor Levin has emphasised that the public needs to have access to public services and be able to benefit from them, while government needs to ensure that it has the necessary skills to deliver. He was speaking at the launch of the Public Service Week, which began on June 29.

17-JUN-09·	Can skills development practitioners survive without research?
	Posted by | development
	Research entails much more than retrieving information and writing a report. When following a proper research procedure, information collected will assist in justifying decisions and proposals, add value and create solutions to specific problems, writes Mark Orpen.

17-JUN-09·	“Human Polar Bear” Lewis Pugh inspires learners in Durban
	Posted by | development
	The “Human Polar Bear” - also known as explorer and environmentalist Lewis Pugh - inspired learners from the Zenex Foundation at Ushaka Marine World in Durban recently. The learners, who had been selected for their capacity in maths and science, were encouraged to "think big about their futures".

12-JUN-09·	Call for nominations continue - but hurry closing date near
	Posted by | development
	“Inyathelo’s Philanthropy Awards are for people who have made a difference through supporting positive long-term social change and development, regardless of the amount of money involved,” Gillian Mitchell says. Nominations are now open in a number of categories.

10-JUN-09·	UCT GSB launches pioneering Centre for Emergent Markets
	Posted by | development
	UCT GSB is proud to announce the opening of the Centre for Emergent Market Business, which will build on a deeper understanding of business in key global markets and facilitate business opportunities and skills development, particularly in Africa.

03-JUN-09·	Social entrepreneurship becomes an option in tough times, the USB hears
	Posted by | development
	Dr Elbé Coetzee and her son Will have nurtured Mogalakwena Craft Art - which means "fierce crocodile" - into a sustainable business over a period of 15 years. “We had to develop and experience this for ourselves. It was not an idea conceived elsewhere,” said Dr Coetzee. “Empowerment is a two-way process.”

02-JUN-09·	HRDE - putting people on the right side of the balance sheet
	Posted by | development
	The Human Resources Development Expo will run from 12 – 14 August 2009, hosted at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. The expo provides an oppurtunity for role players in HR to showcase their diverse services, products and systems.

19-MAY-09·	Christel House learners discover a talent for entrepreneurship
	Posted by | development
	Christel House SA welcomed Professor Tim Scales from the USA to help their grade 10 and 11 learners manufacture and sell products at their Entrepreneurship Development Day. Professor Scales, who developed his own entrepreneurship curriculum for high-school children, said that CHSA pupils were keen to learn about entrepreneurship, and as a result did a great job at the Marketing Day.

19-MAY-09·	Become an accredited manager while you work
	Posted by | development
	Dionysus, which is a skills development organisation offering learnerships, has announced a National Certificate in Management intended for team leaders, supervisors, first line managers and foreman already employed around South Africa.

18-MAY-09·	Social work declared a "scarce skill"
	Posted by | development
	Now that social work has been recognised as a "scarce skill", what strategies has the government put in place to combat this problem? Over R210 million has been set aside for 2009/10, but government needs to see that South Africa relies too heavily on its current social workers, says Dr Zola Skweyiya.

11-MAY-09·	Ebrahim Patel named Minister of Economic Development
	Posted by | development
	Ebrahim Patel is the new Minister of Economic Development in Zuma's Cabinet. Patel has a long history of taking part in the struggle for democracy, was charged with high treason and joined other freedom fighters on Robben Island in 1986.

28-APR-09·	CoolIdeas gets a makeover
	Posted by | development
	The "culture of cool" is encapsulated in VeryCoolIdeas' new brand; namely, passion, quality commitment, knowledge and growth.

31-MAR-09·	KZN brings education closer to communities
	Posted by | development
	An FET College has been established in Clermont, cutting travelling costs and bringing access to education and training to an area that was significantly under-skilled.

30-MAR-09·	Home truth: self-esteem is the first step in enterprise development
	Posted by | development
	Why is it so difficult to teach people to become entrepreneurs? Allon Raiz argues that for people to succeed in business, they first need to believe in themselves.

17-MAR-09·	Do you know how much your employees are learning?
	Posted by | development
	Are your training investments delivering the returns they should be? Investing in employee learning is both a legal obligation and necessary for success, but a lot of it depends on improving past mistakes, and understanding current pitfalls. Siyandza Skills Development has designed a way of tracking development using Learning Exchange.

05-MAR-09·	Personal Mastery for self-management and personal effectiveness
	Posted by | development
	This action-learning programme is highly interactive and will involve you in exercises and experiences to take your life and work to a new level of effectiveness and fulfillment

21-DEC-08·	2000 police graduates to boost crime-fighting
	Posted by | development
	More than 2000 police members graduated in Pretoria and will soon be deployed to police stations around South Africa to help tackle crime head-on. The graduates, who have completed phase one of the police’s basic training and learning programme, held a passing out parade at the Pretoria West Training college.

18-SEP-08·	Project to improve communities, skill youth
	Posted by | development
	The Masupatsela Youth Pioneer Programme, which will see youth actively trying to improve their communities and the lives of the people around them while learning skills, is to be launched next month. The youth programme aims to develop the youth into "agents of change" by giving them the tools to conduct community service.

28-AUG-08·	Innovation in technology stimulates economic growth
	Posted by | development
	Innovation in the world of science and technology is important in stimulating shared economic growth, says Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka.

28-MAR-08·	To progress in your career consider a “Personal business trainer”
	Posted by | development
	Progression in your career, like anything else in life, may require the assistance of others. Many people have a personal trainer at the gym to assist with physical development.

21-FEB-08·	Mehl: Employers must promote workplace learning
	Posted by | development
	At the Workplace Learning conference, presented by the chemical industry Seta, Chieta, employers were challenged to participate in the processes that will lead to a new-look Seta landscape. There are many changes in store for the skills landscape over the coming years and they have the potential to energise the 'skills revolution'.

21-FEB-08·	Coega budgets R110 mil developing skills
	Posted by | development
	The Coega Development Corporation (CDC) has secured over R110 million for skills development programmes, as part of its job creation campaign for investment projects in the Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ).

18-FEB-08·	Training plan to boost govt managers’ skills
	Posted by | development
	A training project which aims to improve the skills of junior, middle and senior managers in the public service will be unveiled in Mpumalanga

31-JAN-08·	Cheese and wine function for SDFs
	Posted by | development
	SDFs and training managers in the Western Cape are invited to attend a cheese and wine function in Stellenbosch where they can find out more about training programmes for credit providers.

29-JAN-08·	Investors commit R1b to Durban CBD upgrade
	Posted by | development
	The investments will go towards preventing the decay of Durban’s inner city and contributing to the restoration of the city's business and residential areas, thus changing the face of Durban’s Central Business District

23-JAN-08·	Add it to your bookshelves today
	Posted by | development
	A new publication promises to be a valuable for novices to the field of education, training and development in the workplace. However 'Practising Education, Training and Development in South African Organisations' should also become popular with the experts as well.

21-JAN-08·	World Economic Forum Chair highlights Africa
	Posted by | development
	Ahead of the annual World Economic Forum meeting, the current WEF chair has highlighted Africa’s development as among the issues to be addressed at the five day event

11-JAN-08·	Seize the day!
	Posted by | development
	I am not fond of the word “GOALS” – I feel it has a negative connotation for me, in that there is always so much pressure to set and achieve BIG goals

06-DEC-07·	Second edition of definitive people development publication
	Posted by | development
	The HSRC has published a new edition of their comprehensive Human Resources Development Review. Like its predecessor from 2003, the publication includes an extensive review of many areas of the people development and includes 25 chapters, each written by expert researchers.

06-DEC-07·	Academics debate the effectiveness of the NQF
	Posted by | development
	There was much praise for Saqa at the Researching Work and Learning for not shying away from contentious debate on the effectiveness of the National Qualifications Framework. Saqa organised a seminar where the pros and cons of a national qualifications framework were debated.

30-OCT-07·	QCTO should cut down on MOUs
	Posted by | development
	The QCTO should surely be welcomed as it will "cut down" on the numerous memorandums of understanding that currently have to be signed should any one particular provider provide a range of training courses.

29-OCT-07·	Learning Materials Design and Development
	Posted by | development
	It has been with some degree of interest that we have observed the “flood” of training activity that has revolved around the development of Assessor and Moderator capacity in organizations over the last few years. Admittedly these two roles are vital in the context of the NQF system – particularly in terms of preserving standards and quality within education, training and development.

26-OCT-07·	Black entrepreneurs awarded for success
	Posted by | development
	Successful black entrepreneurs are to be given the recognition they deserve at the Black Business Supplier Development Programme (BBSP) awards in Mpumalanga on Friday. The Department of Trade and Industry introduced the awards in 2002 to recognise entrepreneurs who have excelled in business and to help fast-track the entry of small medium and micro enterprises (SMME) into the mainstream economy.

26-OCT-07·	Coega welcomes PetroSA’s investment move
	Posted by | development
	PetroSA’s announcement that it investigates the possibility of building a R39 billion crude oil refinery at the Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ) site has been warmly received by the corporation.

22-OCT-07·	South African Breweries - An Examplar Of Excellence
	Posted by | development
	Earlier this year, a group of superb candidates graduated with an NQF level 6 SAB certificate - as CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT PRACTITIONERS.

15-OCT-07·	North West identifies priority skills
	Posted by | development
	The North West has identified priority skills after its 3rd Provincial Skills Development Conference. The conference recommended to amongst others, focus on addressing the critical and scarce skills’ needs in the province, in order to build the capacity of the workforce and ensure the employability of graduates.

12-OCT-07·	A better route to business education and skills training
	Posted by | development
	"The latest thinking on the future of the Setas, by reducing the number to five, appears to be another mistake, smaller than before, but no nearer to providing what we so obviously need," writes Dr Malcolm Birkin. "We have to consider business education and skills training together, because they are inextricably linked in those areas where the Setas have moved beyond vocational training, and into the management arena".

11-OCT-07·	Should we give up on Setas being run by big business?
	Posted by | development
	My opinion is that the initial aims of the skills strategy have been side lined and that SETA’s have become involved in a fight between the Department of Education and The department of labour. They both (DOL and DOE), want the glory for saving the lost souls in the battle for education.

04-OCT-07·	Critical Skills Shortages Set To Dominate Discussions At Upcoming Conference
	Posted by | development
	The scarce and critical skills phenomenon that continues to dog South Africa is set to take centre stage at the upcoming two-day National Skills Conference in less than a fortnight. The convention is scheduled for Gauteng’s Birchwood Executive Hotel from October 18.

26-SEP-07·	New nurses to help address shortages
	Posted by | development
	69 nurses have graduated from the Mpumalanga Nursing College in Kabokweni, outside White River, along with 238 other nurses who had upgraded their qualifications and 49 newly qualified specialised as midwives. The new graduates will help address the nursing shortage in Mpumalanga.

29-AUG-07·	Science, tech needed to lead Africa’s development
	Posted by | development
	Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka says science and technology should not be viewed as “elitist” but rather as sectors whose growth can spearhead Africa’s development. The Deputy President was addressing the first African Union (AU) Conference of African Women in Science and Technology in Sandton.

30-JUL-07·	People development moves up government agenda
	Posted by | development
	President Thabo Mbeki has announced that national Human Resource Development Strategy is to be improved. The strategy was approved by cabinet in 2001 but was not received much attention in recent years. Ways to improve people development in South Africa could include aligning the work of Setas to national priorities such as Asgisa and the industrial development strategy.

07-JUN-07·	ETDP Seta R74 million audit investigation
	Posted by | development
	The education Seta has issued a statement to update stakeholders on the audit investigation that was commissioned in early 2006. The audit was related to a R74 million discretionary grant project where concerns existed about how the funds were spent. The report found that governance problems did exist and that certain staff did not perform their duties correctly.

30-MAY-07·	SA spending on research and development up by R4.5 billion
	Posted by | development
	National spending on Research and Development (R&D) has increased dramatically by about R4.5 billion over the past five years, the Minister of Science and Technology, Mosibudi Mangena has said.

28-MAY-07·	Unprecedented opportunities for skills facilitators to make major contribution
	Posted by | development
	The dearth of skills as well as the slow pace of transformation is offering skills development facilitators (SDFs) with unprecedented opportunities to act as change agents for both their employers and the overall South African economy. But do they have the resources they need to do their job properly? The issue will be considered at the upcoming conference of the skills development faciliatation association.

18-MAY-07·	Dept to hold symposium to tackle child poverty
	Posted by | development
	The Department of Social Development is to hold a two-day symposium on Tackling Child Poverty in an effort to end violence against children and improve their living conditions. The symposium, to be held Monday to Tuesday, would coincide with the launch of the national Child Protection Week running from 28 May-3 June.

16-MAY-07·	Mdladlana defends National Skills Fund disbursements
	Posted by | development
	Labour Minister Membathisi Mdladlana has defended the operations of the National Skills Fund, and his decision last year to allocate R100 million to each of the provinces. Rejecting claims that this was keeping money from Setas, he highlighted a recent allocation of R316million to 13 of the training authorities.

09-MAY-07·	Learnerships key to addressing skills shortage in IT industry
	Posted by | development
	South Africa’s IT industry is facing a huge skills shortage and unless radical changes are made the industry will soon be left high and dry. This is according to Rudi Jansen, CEO of MWEB, who believes that addressing the skills shortage crisis in the IT industry is the most critical challenge the industry faces. The company is currently recruiting learners for IT learnerships and plans to have double the number of positions available this year.

02-MAY-07·	Gauteng to develop youth skills in aircon sector
	Posted by | development
	The Gauteng provincial government is involved in a partnership set to develop the rare and much needed skills required by the airconditioning sector, amongst its young people. “The programme is a direct response to the need for us to address the skills challenge facing the provincial economy,” said Gauteng MEC for Finance and Economic Affairs Paul Mashatile at the establishment of the Ifihlile Training Academy.

16-APR-07·	Poverty drops below one billion - World Bank
	Posted by | development
	The rates of global poverty fell in the first four years of the 21st century, according to new estimates published in the World Development Indicators 2007. The proportion of people living on less than one dollar a day fell to 18.4 percent in 2004, leaving an estimated 985 million people living in extreme poverty.

10-APR-07·	African health ministers discuss equity and development
	Posted by | development
	African health ministers are meeting in Johannesburg in order to find ways to promote equality and strengthen the continent’s development through their sector. The ministers plan to develop a health strategy aimed at contributing to Africa's socio-economic development, by dramatically improving the health of its people and ensuring access to essential health care for all Africans by 2015.

30-MAR-07·	EU to contribute over R9 billion for SA development
	Posted by | development
	The European Union (EU) is to contribute more than R9 billion for its development programme in South Africa over the next six years. It will be aligned to some of the pressing challenges currently facing South Africa including skills, support for Small Micro Medium Enterprise (SMME) development and strengthening the capacity of institutions in South Africa.

20-MAR-07·	Economic integration on SADC Foreign Ministers’ agenda
	Posted by | development
	Regional economic integration is one of the issues on the agenda of the Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) Council of Ministers meeting in Lesotho later this week. South African Deputy Foreign Minister Aziz Pahad will join Finance Minister Trevor Manuel, as part of a senior South African government delegation to the meeting.

06-MAR-07·	Corruption impedes Africa’s development: Minister Fraser-Moleketi
	Posted by | development
	Corruption has been described as an obstacle to Africa’s development, because it can divert funds from priority areas such as health, education and social welfare for personal gain. Speaking at the Africa Forum on Fighting Corruption in Kempton Park, Public Service and Administration Minister Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi said corruption undermined democracy, public order and the African value system.

06-MAR-07·	SADC members on right track to attain FTA by 2008
	Posted by | development
	Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries are said to be on the right track in the implementation of the SADC protocol on trade to attain a free trade Area in 2008. SADC Director of Trade, Investment Finance and Industry Nokokure Murangi said most SADC countries had a mid-term review in 2004 and it emerged that they were in the right direction.

23-FEB-07·	SA and Japanese agency agree to train African public servants
	Posted by | development
	South Africa and a Japanese agency have signed an agreement to develop the skills of trainers at public management institutes in order to build competitive states that respond to the needs communities in Africa. This agreement will see the roll-out of the “Training of Trainers’ Programme for Capacity Building of Management Institutes in Africa.”

16-FEB-07·	Public and private providers could be training 100 000 government employees
	Posted by | development
	Minister Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi has announced that a revised Public Service Human Resource Development Strategy will be developed this year and competency assessments for senior managers will be implemented in the public service. The South African Management Development Institute will be rolling out courses on supply chain management, anti-corruption, gender, disability and monitoring and evaluation for state emplyees.

07-DEC-06·	Cabinet approves establishment of youth development forum
	Posted by | development
	Cabinet is supporting a proposal to establish a Youth Development Forum (YDF) that will be chaired by Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Nqcuka. The Forum aims to ensure that the needs of young people are met and that they acquire the necessary skills that comply with the growing economy.

07-DEC-06·	Funding available for community-based organisation development
	Posted by | development
	The National Skills Fund has opened applications for funding projects that support community-based co-operatives. Training providers, implementing agencies and associations may apply for the funds which aim to support capacity building projects at 400 community based co-operatives.

04-DEC-06·	R1 billion payout to benefit 26 000 in rural areas
	Posted by | development
	Rural communities throughout the country are set to benefit from a R1 billion skills development programme by the Department of Labour. The funding has been made available by the National Skills Fund and will be used to train 26 000 learners over three years.

29-NOV-06·	Calls for more skills development to ensure sustainable tourism growth
	Posted by | development
	Environmental Affairs and Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk has welcomed the continued growth in the tourism sector. However, in order to sustain this growth and contribute to the goals of Asgisa, he emphasised the importance of continuous investment in skills in the sector. He identifies Ireland and Thailand as countries that can provide examples for South Africa.

17-NOV-06·	Money must go the intended recipients
	Posted by | development
	An excellent idea as long as the money actually gets to its destination for its required purpose. I deal with people in the rural areas through a craft empowerment project exposing them to the international world via the internet.

15-NOV-06·	Mdladlana plays Santa with R1bn for skills development
	Posted by | development
	The Minister of Labour will be distributing nearly R1 billion from the National Skills Fund for skills projects in all nine provinces, at a ceremony to be held in the Eastern Cape. The projects aim to help provide various critical and scarce skills to about 360 000 South African rural youths between 2007 and 2009.

08-NOV-06·	Social Factors impeding our employees’ growth?
	Posted by | development
	Skills development focuses on developing the productivity of employees and, to a lesser extent, providing skills to the unemployed so they can gain employment or become entrepreneurs. But even with the skills in place there are still many factors impeding the development of our workforce. Sylvia Hammond investigates a number of social factors that could be just as significant as skills shortages in holding back productivity.

25-OCT-06·	Seta CEO resigns before disciplinary action
	Posted by | development
	The Labour Minister has announced the actions which lead to the departure of the CEO and CFO of the Health and Welfare Seta. When financial irregularities reported by the Auditor-General were not acted on as required, the board instituted a disciplinary enquiry. However before the enquiry could be completed, the individuals approached the board for a settlement.

24-OCT-06·	Death threats for Seta CEO
	Posted by | development
	Labour Minister, Membathisi Mdladlana has confirmed that the CEO of the Mappp Seta has received death threats and is receiving protection from a private security firm. Mdladlana expressed concern that funds meant for skills development were being used to pay for this protection.

28-SEP-06·	Workers must fully participate in learning and development processes
	Posted by | development
	I strongly believe in getting workers to fully participate in learning and development processes in the workplace. However, the systematic and objective process of determining learning needs within an organization should precede the delivery of all learning interventions.

27-SEP-06·	More than 60 000 jobs created in business sector
	Posted by | development
	More than 60 000 jobs were created in the formal business sector, excluding agriculture, between March and June this year, Statistics South Africa has announced. The Quarterly Employment Statistics (QES) report found that the estimated number of employees had increased from about 7 238 000 to 7 300 000 over this period.

20-SEP-06·	Can we effectively measure the success of training?
	Posted by | development
	Is the money spent on training worth it? This is a key question that most organisations struggle with because levies are paid and training budgets are used, but does the training provider deliver? The Institute of People Development's Mark Orpen has some answers.

07-SEP-06·	Seta participation by employers jumps to 92%
	Posted by | development
	The Department of Labour has announced that, with Seta activities now focused on medium and large employers, the participation rate of employers has jumped from 50% to 92%. The Department has also introduced an initiative to develop specific skills development initiatives for small businesses, in collaboration with the Small Enterprise Development Agency - Seda.

16-AUG-06·	Some Setas face ‘serious financial trouble’ – Mdladlana
	Posted by | development
	Concerns about skills funding are continuing, with the Minister of Labour highlighting inconsistent financial practices by Setas. While he believes that some are not spending fast enough, he is concerned that others are in "serious financial trouble".

02-AUG-06·	Mdladlana calls on business to match government's investment
	Posted by | development
	Labour Minister, Membathisi Mdladlana, has called on private sector companies to employ more young graduates. Mdladlana praised his government colleagues for the number of young people they had employed.

26-JUL-06·	Time to turn your organisation into a 'talent developer'
	Posted by | development
	The global human capital development revolution means that employees are no longer commodities - they are assets. Organisations will need to invest in the acquisition, development and retention of their own talent resources, and become open, learning based environments where talent is recognised, nurtured and utilised effectively. The question is how! A new programme has the answers.

26-JUL-06·	R133m for skills development in the North West
	Posted by | development
	A conference has been held in the North West province to co-ordinate skills development initiatives in the region. Funding from the provincial government and other sources will be focused on the crucial skills needed in sectors that form the backbone of the provincial economy such as mining, agriculture, tourism and manufacturing.

19-JUL-06·	Training and development allows us to fulfil a higher purpose
	Posted by | development
	The trainer has a unique position as far as they are able to influence the lives of the people they train in a profound and lasting manner. The person working in this field has to have some unique and differing talents. They have the creativity of Einstein, the patience of Job, the brilliance of Da Vinci and the fortitude of Mother Theresa, all aimed at one thing – the development of people.

05-JUL-06·	Action learning reduces training time spent out of the office
	Posted by | development
	Properly trained staff enhance productivity & performance in their organisations, says Institute of People Development CEO Mark Orpen, and with action learning methodologies they don't have to spend weeks out of the office.

28-JUN-06·	Asking some tough questions of Seta boards
	Posted by | development
	Who serves on Seta boards? Who puts them there and what relevant experience do they have? Do unions have the resources to fully participate in all Seta boards and do employers have a responsibility to monitor the work of the board representatives? Skills development expert Sylvia Hammond poses some questions about Seta governance systems.

21-JUN-06·	Facing the reality of job creation and training
	Posted by | development
	The future of the South African economy in part depends on the creation of jobs in the SMME sector. Mark Orpen from the Institute of People Development believes that private training providers hold the key to developing this group.

19-JUN-06·	Biggest problem is with the Setas themselves
	Posted by | development
	The biggest problem is with the SETA'S themselves. They include/expect a lot of clerical duties in the activities of an SDF and it is this vast clerical tasks that are likely to discourage Senior Management into becoming SDF's.

19-JUN-06·	Consultant SDF's have no vested interest in the company
	Posted by | development
	The position of SDF should be a key performance area of Training Management and / or HR staff within organisations, rather than contracting a part-time consultant to fulfil this role.

15-JUN-06·	Guidance of the SDF on training remains imperative
	Posted by | development
	The guidance of the SDF in getting training off the ground remains imperative. In this particular instance, the HR role is best put use in an administrative capacity but still requires the advisory capacity of a knowledgeable SDF.

15-JUN-06·	Being an SDF is extremely hard work
	Posted by | development
	It is extremely hard work - both challenging and fulfilling work. Any one who thinks that an SDF does not contribute to strategy is obviously not interested in the contribution of people to company objectives.

14-JUN-06·	Access to finance, mentorship concern for youth
	Posted by | development
	Access to finance and proper mentorship remain major obstacles to developing the youth of this country according to Umsobomvu Youth Fund director for business development support Mbongeni Mtshali. He added that these problems were exacerbated by the lack of “visibility and accessibility” of the UYF.

14-JUN-06·	Plans afoot to merge the NYC and Umsobomvu Fund
	Posted by | development
	The National Youth Commission has proposed a merger with Umsobomvu Youth Fund to form a new body called the Youth Development Agency (YDA), saying the merger would help fast-track the implementation of youth development programmes. Sello Tang takes a look at the feasibility and implications of the formation of such a structure.

14-JUN-06·	Conference ponders future of the skills development facilitator
	Posted by | development
	The annual conference of the Association for Skills Development Facilitation (ASDFSA) held a panel discussion with three Seta CEOs and a number of leading SDFs to discuss the future of the skills development facilitator.

08-JUN-06·	Skills investment a matter of survival, says Deputy President
	Posted by | development
	South Africa's private sector must see the investment in skills not as part of corporate social responsibility but as a fundamental business imperative for their survival, Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka has said.

30-MAY-06·	Unisa, Nissan agree on skills development
	Posted by | development
	Unisa and Nissan South Africa have signed an agreement which will see 25 Nissan employees benefitting from bursaries to study at the university - and the university has called on other companies to follow suit.

30-MAY-06·	R1,2bn to stimulate research and development
	Posted by | development
	Science and Technology Minister Mosibudi Mangena has outlined the 2006/7 budget allocation for his department, which has seen an inflow of R1,2 billion of new money for the country's publicly funded science and technology (s&t) system.

17-MAY-06·	RPL makes sense for employers as well as employees
	Posted by | development
	For employees who have been performing in a job for many years without any formal qualifications for what they do, recognition of prior learning (RPL) is good news. But Mark Orpen from the Institute of People Development explains that there are strong spin-offs for the employer as well.

17-MAY-06·	Ongoing training encourages success and support
	Posted by | development
	Communities countrywide are harvesting the rewards of a sustainable project; the concept of food garden training was implemented by the Clover Mama Afrika - Ukwakha Isizwe social responsibility programme.

10-MAY-06·	Work Readiness programme teaches the skills that grads lack
	Posted by | development
	After three or four years at university many graduates find that they still don’t have the competencies they need to get employment. A work readiness programme, supported by Fasset, is showing that a targeted intervention can turn the unemployable into the kind of candidates that companies want, in only 12 weeks.

10-MAY-06·	Fasset celebrates success and heaps praise on stakeholders
	Posted by | development
	Finance and accounting Seta, Fasset held a celebratory event to look back at their successful social development projects. While they said they were being a bit ‘smug’, in fact they were quick to heap praise on the stakeholders who partnered them in these ventures.

01-MAY-06·	Developing our labour force has huge knock on effects for the economy
	Posted by | development
	I do not believe that our current culture of instant gratification is the correct one.

06-APR-06·	Skills development has to be targeted
	Posted by | development
	As a life long learning proponent, I would be the last person to say any kind of skills enhancement effort is not good.

06-APR-06·	Training does provide sufficient knowledge and skills
	Posted by | development
	People do need training for them to be productive in the cooperate world but we turn to utilize such skills for monetary interests.

06-APR-06·	We are driven by so called international qualifications
	Posted by | development
	We are going to reap the awful fruit of our money driven training instead of reaping the high-quality fruit of proper skills training.

29-MAR-06·	HR professionals – Now is the time...
	Posted by | development
	With Jipsa, the Joint Initiative for Priority Skills Acquisition, the major focus of attempts to stimulate the economy, people skills are now in the spotlight. What challenges does this new programme pose for the human resource department? Our commentator shares some views.

15-MAR-06·	Asgisa aims to grow youth skills in water sector
	Posted by | development
	The water sector has its eyes firmly on the new Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative, Asgisa, and is ensuring that education and training is at the core of their work.

15-MAR-06·	Skills development goes on national roadshow
	Posted by | development
	Workshops have been held in various provinces in an attempt to ensure that all areas of the country are able to participate in skills development initiatives. The events combined details of the National Skills Development Strategy with provincial growth plans to ensure all activities are aligned.

15-MAR-06·	Driven by a need to achieve
	Posted by | development
	Learnerships require a lot of work, from the learners and from the employers, and the temptation is always there to throw in the towel. Selby Mthunywa experienced difficulties with his studies but he just worked harder and is now succeeding.

08-MAR-06·	Western Cape launches Human Capital Development Strategy
	Posted by | development
	The Western Cape is planning to increase the number of learners in FET Colleges and learnerships by 40 000 as part of their Human Capital Developmen Strategy, which also targets a matric pass level of more than 50 000 people.

08-FEB-06·	Seta funds down to R200 million
	Posted by | development
	The Minister of Labour was on hand for a briefing on the successes achieved by the Department’s skills development activities over the last year, including an increase in learners on learnerships and a big decrease in funds sitting in Seta bank accounts.

08-FEB-06·	Skills shortage identified as public enemy number one
	Posted by | development
	Education and Skills Development form a key focus area for the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative, Asgisa. Once again the lack of skills is identified as a major problem for the country and a number of initiatives are planned to address the problem.

02-FEB-06·	Surfer launches programme to help street children
	Posted by | development
	A Durban surfer has embarked on a programme to take children who live on the streets away from their harsh living conditions and teach them how to surf.

25-JAN-06·	South Africa Works by Harlan Cloete
	Posted by | development
	Recent publiction by Harlan Cloete, "South African Works" covers the areas of skills development and HR policy in a 'concise and succinct manner' according to our reviewer.

08-DEC-05·	War for talent lost in burdened HR departments
	Posted by | development
	The war to get the best talent for an employer is being lost in increasingly over burdened Human Resources departments that often don't have the time to project manage all the skills development processes.

08-DEC-05·	Trained community workers take to the field
	Posted by | development
	More than 350 Community Development Workers have “graduated” from the University of the Western Cape after a 12-month programme that has prepared them to be the mouths of government and the voices of the communities they serve.

17-NOV-05·	“Failure not an option” in SA skills crisis
	Posted by | development
	Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka has powerfully asserted the need to end the country's skills crisis if national growth targets are to be met. She is proposing systemic changes to assist new labour market entrants and support FET Colleges.

26-OCT-05·	Work readiness programmes could save millions
	Posted by | development
	Work readiness programmes are being promoted as a way to smooth the progress of graduates into the workforce. The upside is that they could also save business hundreds of millions of Rands, according to Skills Framework MD, Sarah Babb.

25-OCT-05·	Time to allow SDFs to do their work
	Posted by | development
	According to Skills Development Association CEO Gill Connellan, few facilitators are able – or allowed – to fulfill the role’s potential. Speaking at the Chieta national conference, she called on business to recognise the essential role of the SDF in dealing the the skills shortage in the country.

12-OCT-05·	Are the skills development pieces beginning to fall into place?
	Posted by | development
	In the first of three mini-analyses of the evolving dynamics of skills development in South Africa, Jim Freeman smiles on the involvement of the Department of Education and asks whether they shouldn't have a much greater role in learnerships for the previously unemployed.

05-OCT-05·	Credit Bill provides challenge for HR practitioners
	Posted by | development
	Many credit providers like banks, retailers and microlenders, are totally underprepared for the staffing implications of the National Credit Bill which is currently under debate in parliament. The Skills Framework's Sarah Babb explains.

28-SEP-05·	SDFs & providers need to understand the business of business
	Posted by | development
	CTFL's Hoosen Rasool and Busa's Vic van Vuuren have a clear message for skills development facilitators and other players in the vocational training arena. They need to broaden their knowledge of the context and practices of business in South Africa if they wish to gain credibility in the workplace and be taken seriously by their employers.

26-SEP-05·	Mbeki urges accountants to support SMMEs
	Posted by | development
	President Thabo Mbeki has called on the accounting profession to pay particular attention to SMME development in the country. Speaking at the SAICA 25 anniversary celebrations, the President also praised the organisation for its committment to skills development in the country.

21-SEP-05·	Can skills development contribute to sustainable development?
	Posted by | development
	A group of mostly non-governmental organisations recently launched the Environmental Learning Forum to provide a platform for networking and collaboration for all stakeholders dealing with environment and sustainability.

14-SEP-05·	Let’s not treat Setas as font of all knowledge
	Posted by | development
	They may only be five years old, but we still expect Setas to have all the answers on skills development. Alan Hammond thinks it is time that we all took responsibility for making the system a success – rather than relying on the Setas to do it for us.

09-SEP-05·	Targets exceeded for community development workers
	Posted by | development
	Government is set to exceed the target of recruiting community development workers by March next year.

31-AUG-05·	What are 'Institutions of Excellence'?
	Posted by | development
	The new version of the National Skills Development Strategy calls on Setas to establish Institutes of Sectoral Excellence, but doesn't give any indication of what these bodies would look like. Services Seta CEO Ivor Blumenthal is the first to flesh out exactly how these institutes could work.

30-AUG-05·	Pandor supports early childhood development
	Posted by | development
	Education Minister Naledi Pandor says there is a need to intensify efforts aimed at addressing gaps in Early Childhood Development (ECD). She was speaking at the Ntataise conference in Vanderbijlpark.

24-AUG-05·	Consulting workers on skills development
	Posted by | development
	Despite changes to the Skills Development Act Regulations, Setas still require consultation with workers when preparing Workplace Skills Plans. But does that mean that the company has to have a committee? Maybe not.

17-AUG-05·	Should all SDFs be HR practitioners?
	Posted by | development
	As the role of the Skills Development Facilitator matures, their status in business will change. Should SDFs now be housed under the Human Resources profession ETQA and have a qualification before fulfilling the skills planning role?

17-AUG-05·	Pandor praised Sappi-Protec education partnership
	Posted by | development
	Education Minister Naledi Pandor has applauded a partnership that promotes the learning and understanding of maths and science in the country.

17-AUG-05·	KZN FET Sector benefits from course design expertise
	Posted by | development
	Programme design and materials development is a specialised field and requires specific training. An intervention by the Institute for People Development for FET institutions in KZN was shown to make a significant contribution to skills of the participants.

10-AUG-05·	Do employers still have to consult over Workplace Skills Plans?
	Posted by | development
	Do the new regulations released in July mean that employers no longer have to consult with their employees about their Workplace Skills Plan? And what about the role of the SDF under these new rules? We have a look at the new rules and assess their implications.

27-JUL-05·	Labour market reform still on the cards
	Posted by | development
	After a cabinet Lekgotla, President Thabo Mbeki has confirmed that labour market reform is still on the agenda and importing individuals with scarce skills is to be part of the government's plan to improve delivery in municipalities.

13-JUL-05·	Mangena calls for more women role models
	Posted by | development
	Science and Technology Minister Mosibudi Mangena says the lack of role models for young girls has contributed to women being under-represented in the upper echelons of scientific careers.

07-JUL-05·	Growth & Development Strategy for N West
	Posted by | development
	The North West provincial government will launch the Growth and Development Strategy, a move set to highlight and encourage growth in the province's key economic areas of mining, agriculture, manufacturing and tourism, among others.

30-JUN-05·	Sacob joins forces to battle for training SMMEs
	Posted by | development
	National business organisations have highlighted the positive impact that skills development has had on the SMME sector – but they are very worried about some recent developments. And it seems that government is listening!

28-JUN-05·	Community Development Workers hit target
	Posted by | development
	Government is on track to meet the target of introducing community development workers, says Public Service and Administration Minister Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi.

27-JUN-05·	SA to spend 1% of GDP on research by 2008
	Posted by | development
	South Africa needs to achieve "a critical mass" of researchers with master, doctoral and post-doctoral degrees, and is intending to spend up to one percent of gross domestic product on research and development by 2008 in order to reach this target.

07-JUN-05·	SA, Lesotho strengthen sci-tech ties
	Posted by | development
	Science and Technology Minister Mosibudi Mangena and his Lesotho counterpart Motsoahae Thabane have signed an agreement to strengthen bilateral relations.

07-APR-05·	Call for more investment in research, development
	Posted by | development
	Science and Technology Minister Mosibudi Mangena has emphasised the need for government and the private sector to channel more funds into research and development in the country.

10-MAR-05·	Juggling quality and quantity in the NSDS
	Posted by | development
	Exactly how should we judge the success of the National Skills Development Strategy? Dr Danisa Baloyi tells The Skills Portal that the focus now is on how skills development has changed the lives of working people?

09-MAR-05·	Where’s the beef with SME levy exemptions?
	Posted by | development
	Some believe that the raising of the skills levy threshold to R500 000 will cause many hundreds of SDFs to lose their livelihood. However Jim Freeman writes that while one door is closing, a number of others are opening.

16-FEB-05·	NYC, Umsobomvu Youth Fund to merge
	Posted by | development
	The National Youth Commission has announced that it will merge with the Umsobomvu Youth Fund to work towards better youth development in the country.

23-JAN-05·	Developing people takes a long time
	Posted by | development
	I feel that the focus is on ownership rather than skills development because skills development is essentially a process which takes longer periods than the period it takes to acquire ownership.

31-AUG-04·	Skills can fight poverty, says Mdladlana
	Posted by | development
	Labour Minister Membathisi Mdladlana says skills development is a key component to realise government's mission of halving poverty and unemployment by 2014.

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