Staff Reporter

Crown Relocations offers varied career prospects & skills development

Crown Relocations South Africa is a leader in global mobility, providing relocation and moving services for individuals, families, and businesses worldwide. With a commitment to talent development and a passion for excellence, Crown Relocations South Africa is dedicated to helping individuals thrive in the relocations industry.

The dynamic and thriving relocations industry encompasses a vast array of career possibilities, from drivers with Code 14 licenses and skilled forklift operators to logistics and international business professionals. This sector provides a gateway to a promising global career landscape where individuals discover a wealth of diverse and exciting career paths. Let’s take a look at some of the opportunities that exist:

Drivers with Code 14 licences play an indispensable role in the logistics process and are core to this sector. Operating reticulated trucks, they ensure the safe and efficient transportation of goods which really is at the heart of relocations. With the continuous movement of people and businesses, skilled drivers are in constant demand, offering a stable and rewarding career choice.

Forklift drivers are highly skilled professionals responsible for managing the movement of goods within warehouses and during the loading and unloading of shipments. These individuals play a pivotal role in optimising operational efficiency, making their skills invaluable.

Professionals in logistics and international business hold the key to unlocking the world of global trade. Those with diplomas or degrees in Logistics are equipped to navigate the complexities of moving freight worldwide. They manage supply chains, coordinate shipments, and facilitate the efficient flow of goods on a global scale.

Managing Director of Crown Relocations, Ian Pettey shares: “In order to thrive in the relocations industry, you will need a distinctive set of soft skills. Among these, sales and marketing skills hold a paramount role, given the industry’s significant interactions with corporate clients. The ability to cultivate robust relationships and grasp the specific needs of these clients is a fundamental element for achieving success.”

An inherent interest in logistics forms the bedrock of proficiency in this field. A comprehensive understanding of the logistics and supply chain processes is essential for sound decision-making and effective problem-solving, both of which are critical in the day-to-day operations of this industry.

Pettey continues: “A strong foundation or a genuine Interest in geography proves to be invaluable. This expertise aids in the planning of efficient transportation routes, ensuring timely deliveries. A well-rounded familiarity with global geography enhances the ability to navigate the intricacies of international relocations and logistics.”

Of course, people skills are indispensable. The relocations industry is inherently service-oriented, and the capability to interact adeptly with clients and colleagues, all while maintaining a customer-centric approach, is pivotal. This not only contributes to the provision of excellent service but also the cultivation of enduring relationships that are at the core of the industry’s success. Crown Relocations South Africa acknowledges the potential of the industry and aims to address two vital aspects:

Skills Drain: Many individuals leave the country without exploring the thriving opportunities within the relocations sector. Crown Relocations South Africa aims to educate job seekers about the exciting career prospects available in the industry.

Skills Development and Leadership Programs: Crown Relocations South Africa offers various learnership courses designed to help individuals develop the necessary skills for a successful career in the relocations industry. These courses encompass:

Career Development: Customised programs to assist employees in managing their careers, acquiring new skills, and personal and professional growth.

Mentoring: Fostering the transfer of knowledge and skills from experienced mentors to less experienced mentees, providing behavioural, health, motivational, and career benefits.

Personal Development: Empowering individuals to take ownership of their personal development, continually assess their abilities, and employ techniques for self-improvement.

Management Communication and Growth: Tailored programs to nurture effective management skills, ensuring that leaders within the industry are equipped for success.

Managing Yourself to Success: Helping new team members and experienced professionals lay a strong foundation for their careers, covering topics such as managing performance, embracing change, building relationships, personal accountability, resilience, and self-development.

Crown Relocations South Africa is committed to creating opportunities for individuals to embark on a fulfilling career in the relocations industry. Once trained, they become a valuable skills commodity with global opportunities in abundance.

INSIDE EDUCATION

Staff Reporter

As this year draws to a close, the 2023 cohort of eight from the iSchoolAfrica Deaf Developers Programme have graduated. This programme emerges as a pioneering effort, inviting businesses to embark on a journey that not only addresses the pressing need for tech talent but also aims to create more inclusive work environments.

In a stride toward creating a more inclusive society and workforce, iSchoolAfrica, an innovative education initiative, has launched the transformative Deaf Developers Programme funded by a grant from SAB Foundation, as well as support and funding from Core Group. This pioneering initiative is poised to empower unemployed Deaf youth with cutting-edge skills in iOS app development, opening pathways to future income and success, while fostering inclusivity within our society.

Initiatives like the iSchoolAfrica Deaf Developers Programme carry immense significance. They break down barriers, empower individuals and foster workplaces where every person is valued and included.

In a landmark development, coinciding with the official recognition of South African Sign Language as the 12th official language in South Africa, the Deaf Developers Programme stands as a beacon of hope, bridging the gap between skills, opportunities and inclusivity.

The 2023 cohort of eight Deaf students immersed themselves in a comprehensive post-graduate certificate programme in app development, centred on Apple’s coding language, Swift.

The programme not only equips these young talents with the vital skills needed for app development but also cultivates their confidence and competence to thrive in the competitive tech industry.

Michelle Lissoos, Director of iSchoolAfrica, articulated her enthusiasm, stating, “The iSchoolAfrica team has designed the Deaf Developers Programme to transform the narrative of disabled youth unemployment in South Africa. We are often asked what success will look like for this programme. There are a few levels of success. There is a critical need for app developers with disabilities to be creating applications that will solve barriers faced by people with disabilities. We hope to see apps created by our students to serve this community. We also hope that they will thrive as developers in accessible workspaces – and that biases are broken down for the employment of future youth with disabilities. We know that their success will not only benefit the disabled community but society as a whole. And that this is the first of many cohorts the Deaf Developers Programme will enable.”

The Deaf Developers Programme is a meticulously crafted nine-month journey that encompasses various elements aimed at ensuring holistic learning and practical application. Each participant is provided with a MacBook for the duration of the programme, ensuring they have the tools to participate effectively in their learning journey.

This innovative programme employs a hybrid approach, seamlessly integrating South African Sign Language (SASL) interpreters, thereby ensuring clear and effective communication channels.

As a testament to their growth, participants are poised to tackle industry-related projects upon completion of the course, applying their newfound skills and gaining hands-on experience.

Through the programme it came to light that there were certain specific coding terms that were not part of South African Sign Language. An innovation of this programme included the contribution of more than 100 new coding terms to our sign language dictionary.

iSchoolAfrica Disability Inclusion Programme Manager, Chelsea Williamson underscored the significance of this initiative, affirming, “Inclusion is not just a word; it’s an imperative. The Deaf Developers Programme opens doors for Deaf individuals to shine, enabling them to contribute their talents to the tech ecosystem.”

Corporate Partnership Opportunities

A partnership with the iSchoolAfrica Deaf Developers Programme offers corporations various ways of collaborating, with numerous benefits. Besides corporates receiving associated BBBEE points and tax certificates – the programme paves the way for employers to contribute to their brand by leading the way in inclusion. There are different collaboration levels, from sponsoring coding at schools for learners with special needs, to bursaries for Deaf students to study app development, to tapping into this pipeline of highly qualified app developers. iSchoolAfrica offers comprehensive support to partner corporations, ensuring a seamless and inclusive transition for Deaf app developers in the workplace.

iSchoolAfrica invites corporates to be part of a ground-breaking initiative that addresses tech talent shortages and contributes to reducing unemployment rates among people with disabilities in South Africa.

For more information on the iSchoolAfrica Deaf Developers Programme and partnership opportunities, please contact Chelsea Williamson (iSchoolAfrica Disability Inclusion Programme Manager) on chelsea@ischoolafrica.com

INSIDE EDUCATION

Staff Reporter

Putting up brave fights on the international stage, the South African U-17 hockey teams represented the country with pride by delivering impressive performances throughout the Mirnawan Cup tournament in Malaysia.

The national U-17 boys’ team, under the guidance of head coach Justin Collins and captain Reuben Sendzul, were exceptional. In a nail-biting final, they lost in a narrow 4-3 defeat to India.

“Our journey in the Mirnawan Cup has been an incredible adventure. The competition was fierce and we gave our all. Despite the result, we’ve gained valuable insights and memories that will last a lifetime,” said Sendzul, who scored all three of his team’s goals in the final.

The SA girls’ team, led by head coach Omari Pienaar Geyer and captain Tanya Pieterse, also did well to finish fourth.

After beating India 2-1 in a thrilling contest earlier in the tournament, the girls’ side were edged 2-0 by the same team in another tightly-contested battle in the third-fourth place playoff.

“This was a tremendous learning experience. The opportunity to compete on a global stage has not only sharpened our skills but has been a source of immense pride,” said Pieterse.

The coaching staff and players from both teams expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate at the Mirnawan Cup, which featured 11 teams from five countries.

The South African sides not only demonstrated their talent and potential on the field but also emphasized the importance of enjoying the game, and both head coaches stressed the significance of the players’ enjoyment and growth during the tour.

“Being part of this tournament was a great opportunity for our young players to showcase their talent and compete at an international level. The experience gained will undoubtedly contribute to their growth as athletes,” said Pienaar Geyer.

Collins echoed these sentiments, stating: “The Mirnawan Cup has provided a fantastic platform for our boys to learn, compete and enjoy the game. The resilience they displayed and the lessons learned will undoubtedly shape their future in hockey.”

Returning home this week, both teams carried with them not only the lessons learned on the field but also a sense of camaraderie and pride in representing South Africa on the world stage, and the experience gained by the players will undoubtedly contribute to the bright future of South African youth hockey.

An affiliate member of the South African Hockey Association (SAHA), the South African Schools Hockey Association (SASHOC) is a regulatory board which promotes, upholds, supports, controls, and maintains rules for all schoolgirls and schoolboys playing hockey in South Africa.

Laying the foundation in hockey development at schools’ level in South Africa and ensuring that there is opportunity to maintain the growth of the game, will ensure that Hockey will continue to grow from strength to strength.

SASHOC also firmly believes that transformation plays an important role in our organization achieving its goals.

INSIDE EDUCATION

Johnathan Paoli

Civil society organisations, including Equal Education, Section27, The Bookery and Right2Protest, on Wednesday called on the Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga to urgently fulfil the legal obligations set out in the Norms and Standards for Public School infrastructure, which she signed into law 10 years ago.

29 November 2023 marks 10 years since the Norms & Standards for Public School Infrastructure was published.

“This letter expresses our concern and disappointment that despite it being 10 years since the promulgation of the Regulations relating to Minimum Uniform Norms & Standards for Public School Infrastructure, many schools’ infrastructure conditions have not improved,” the letter read.

EE said that despite this important law, the government continued to struggle to ensure all learners have access to quality schooling, leaving many school communities to contend with deplorable infrastructure conditions.

Earlier this month, Equal Education released a 48-page report under the title “Schooling under Unusual Conditions: Research into how school infrastructure shapes teaching and learning in SA”.

The report sought to examine the relationship between infrastructure and teaching and learning, using a nationally representative sample of individuals aged 20 and younger and drawn from the 2019 General Household Survey.

The report found that a review of the empirical literature showed that the physical conditions of schools, including classroom size, affect schooling outcomes, although the impact varies widely across contexts.

The report said that nearly three decades into democracy, the post-apartheid government was still struggling to undo the inequalities in the schooling system that were created by the apartheid regime.

The report continued that the quality of schooling was compromised because pupils were not gaining enough of the basic skills and knowledge needed for further education or to lead productive lives.

“Generally, insufficient classroom infrastructure or overcrowding conditions (measured as classes too big/too many learners) emerged as a consistent and important environmental factor at the school level, with a negative impact on motivation for both learners and teachers,” the report read.

Equal Education said the Department of Basic Education committed to replacing all schools constructed from inappropriate materials, including mud, asbestos, zinc, and wood, and to provide schools with electricity, running water, and proper sanitation facilities by 2016.

Sufficient resources including classrooms, electricity, running water, and functional toilet facilities, in order to supply schools with electronic connectivity (telephones and the internet) and perimeter security (fences) by November 2020 as well as providing schools with labs and libraries by November 2023.

The civic organisations expressed their deep concern over school infrastructure backlogs, especially sanitation backlogs, despite focused interventions like the Accelerated School Infrastructure Delivery Initiative (ASIDI) and the Sanitation Appropriate for Education (SAFE) initiative.

EE held that 728 schools across the Eastern Cape, Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal still relied on pit toilets as their only form of sanitation and that education departments have consistently missed key targets, including those for libraries and laboratories by 2023, as well as those set for 2020 and 2016.

The organisation said that 82% of schools do not have a laboratory, while 74% of public schools lack a library, and the ones that do have libraries are often inadequately stocked, in a country where 81% of children cannot read for meaning in any language by the age of ten.

“The consistent failures to meet the deadlines in the regulations not only represent missed opportunities to address the historic backlogs endangering the lives and future of learners but also missed chances to improve learning outcomes in the sector,” the open letter read.

EE said that although they recognised that lack of funding has been cited as the reason for the provincial and national departments of basic education’s failure to achieve targets and plans, particularly regarding school infrastructure, the sector needed to take responsibility for its spending problem that leads to poor service delivery.

“Even though funding for basic education is insufficient to address the numerous issues, both national and provincial education departments are notorious for irregular, wasteful, and fruitless spending,” the letter read.

In addition, the organisation said that before the discontinuation of the National Education Infrastructure Management System (NEIMS) reports, public data on infrastructure backlogs was frequently inconsistent with current realities, and that it not only hindered civil society’s ability to hold education officials accountable but suggests that departments do not know the true extent of the crisis they are meant to address.

EE further said that adequate school infrastructure was a critical component of the full enjoyment of the right to basic education, an immediately realisable right that requires proactive measures for its progressive realisation.

“Persistent infrastructure backlogs not only infringe on learners’ constitutional right to basic schooling; they threaten the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goal 4 target of ‘free, equitable and quality primary and secondary education for all girls and boys leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes by 2030’,” the letter concluded.

Apart from realising the targets of the Norms, the open letter also called for the national and provincial Treasuries to prioritise and provide adequate infrastructure funding, as well as for the DBE to conduct a thorough audit of schools to ascertain the true extent of the infrastructure crisis.

INSIDE EDUCATION

Lerato Mbhiza

Higher Education Minister, Blade Nzimande, has laid a criminal complaint against businessman Thuja Holdings CEO Mthunzi Mdwaba, at the Brooklyn Police Station for his failure to report corruption to law enforcement authorities.

This is in relation to the allegations that Mdwaba made earlier this month against Nzimande and two ministers who allegedly attempted to solicit a bribe of R500 million from him.

Mdwaba alleged that Nzimande, Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, and the ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula were among those who sought to bribe him to give the green light to his R5 billion seed funding from the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF).

All the ministers and Mbalula have denied the allegations and threatened legal action against Mdwaba if he did not issue a statement of apology.

Addressing the media outside the police station, Nzimande described Mdwaba’s allegations as a blue lie.

“I have come here to open a criminal case against Mthunzi Mdwaba, who has come up with allegations that I and a few of my other colleagues asked for a bribe from him. This is a lie, a blue lie, actually; there is no such thing, and I never sent anyone,” Nzimande said.

According to Nzimande, when Mdwaba’s team asked him why he didn’t open a case against the implicated ministers, he responded that he didn’t trust the law enforcement agencies.

Nzimande said this was very strange for someone who claimed to be a lawyer, a professor, as well as a businessman and called Mdwaba’s allegations a smear campaign against him, the ANC, and the South African Communist Party (SACP).

“This has the potential to damage my image as a political person. We are going to elections. I don’t want this to be hanging over my head. This is a smear campaign against me, the ANC as government and the SACP. He is doing it deliberately. He has never come to me… to ask for money. This is very strange,” Nzimande charged and also denied that he had ever worked with Mdwaba.

“We might have bumped into each other in forums or other activities, but I have no relationship with the guy,” Nzimande said.

INSIDE EDUCATION