MEC POLLY BOSHIELO - Limpopo

EDUCATIONDEPARTMENT OF

REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICAPROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT

The O�cial Newsletter of the Department of Education

The heartland of southern Africa - development is about people

2nd Quarter Edition 2019/2020

Spelling Bee and Debate competitions, a success >>P6

Chronicles of Brazil >>P8

Learners with Autism challenges need support >>P16

MEC POLLY BOSHIELO

Thuto News | 2nd Quarter | Edition 2019/2020 Thuto News | 2nd Quarter | Edition 2019/2020

Page | The heartland of southern Africa - development is about people The heartland of southern Africa - development is about people Page | 20 2

South Africans on 08 May 2019 took to the polls to elect the sixth administration, 25 years

since the advent of democracy with much optimism. With boots strapped and sleeves rolled up, the work of advancing the provision of quality basic education across Limpopo must go ahead, building on the work we have been doing in the fifth administration. In his inauguration, President Cyril Ramaphosa on the 25th of May said: “Let us forge a compact for an efficient, capable and ethical state, a state that is free of corruption, for elected officials and public servants who faithfully serve no other cause than that of our people. We must be a society that values excellence, rewards efforts and rejects mediocrity”. As a sector, we understand that Education is a basic human right and it is a right which we must toil to realize and achieve for the 1, 7 million learners in our schools. The Department has announced its plans when

we tabled the 2019/20 Budget Vote on the 23rd of July 2019 at the Limpopo Legislature. Our approach is that we must go about our Departmental business as per what the National Development Plan 2030 which expects us to: “Work together to have schools that are characterized by learners and teachers who are highly motivated, principals who are effective managers providing administrative and curriculum leadership, parents getting involved in the schools their children attend, schools that are accountable to parents, committed and professional teachers who have knowledge of the subjects they teach and schools and teachers that are supported by knowledgeable district and circuit officials”

We must do so because government is expected to make progress in tackling poverty, inequality and unemployment. It is in this regard that the education sector will have to improve the quality of education and ensure that every 10 year old child should be able to read with understanding. As a Department, we are on track in this regard because we are involved in a number of interventions that are aimed at promoting reading. These include reading campaigns such as Read to Lead and Read Aloud, Spelling, Debating and puzzles competitions. The Department will expand the reading campaigns to all schools in this financial year with special focus to rural schools. Furthermore, we expect all 141 circuits to participate in the Spelling Bee competitions as this will assist the Department in

achieving its goals of ensuring that learners read with understanding and we will strengthen these initiatives to ensure that more schools participate. The Department will be implementing all these projects in the foundation phase because we understand that the success of any education system is determined by the strength of its foundation. This is a matter which was emphasized by both the State President in his State of the Nation Address and the Premier of our Province when he delivered his State of the Province Address.

The ANC 2019 Election Manifesto acknowledges that the world and our nation are at a critical point in the rapid digital transformation linked to the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This is shaping the future of schooling, of work, social interaction and industrial production. The rise of new technologies in robotics, artificial intelligence, big data, and the internet of things will all have a profound impact on the country.

We have said that the Department will in this financial year ensure that Head Office, 10 education districts and 141 circuits are all equipped with Wi-Fi facilities. The Department has to produce a learner that can function in the changing world that is hallmarked by the Fourth Industrial Revolution and it is in this regard that an amount of R75 million has been allocated to procure tablets, interactive boards and mobile science laboratories for schools especially in the rural areas. These initiatives will progressively assist in bringing learners on par

MEC’s foreword

Limpopo MEC for EducationMs Polly Boshielo



with learners from other provinces in terms of ICT skills and the implementation of e-Learning.

Addressing infrastructure backlogs is matter which the Department takes very seriously as per the norms and standards. We have to create a safe and favourable schooling environment for teaching and learning. Futhermore, and equally crucial is the eradication of pit latrines in all the 507 schools and replacing them with proper sanitation facilities which exude dignity and safety. The Department of Basic will in this regard provide 300 and the Provincial Department will provide the balance of 207 schools so that there is no talk of pit latrines in the next financial year.

The Department will be strengthening Representatives Council of Learners to enhance the culture of teaching, learning and safety. Safety is a big concern given an increase in the challenges relating to substance and alcohol abuse in our schools. The Department is strengthening partnership with SAPS to intensify the process of random searches and seizures for dangerous weapons in hotspots, especially in public schools around Polokwane.

We will accordingly ensure that the 2019/20 budget allocation prioritizes the following core mandates of the Department. These includes the improvement of quality teaching and learning from Grade R to Grade 12 so that learners exit the system with the firm foundation for further studies. We will also focus on teacher development and support as part of improving teaching and learning through continuous professional development. Inclusive education is a priority and it is equally prioritized in this financial year.

FIRST 100 DAYS REFLEFLECTIONS

After consulting with all key stakeholders and role-players, MEC committed herself to use her first 100 days in office to deliver on the priorities outlined in the Premier’s State of the Province Address and her budget vote speech. In line with her commitment to prioritise the foundation phase as the core focus for the sixth administration, the MEC supported the provincial language competitions for Grades R-3. She also kept her promise to strengthen the reading culture by officiating the Spelling Bee provincial competitions.

The undertaking in her budget vote speech to provide all Senior Managers (including District Directors) with tablets was fulfilled when these were given to all SMS members who attended the strategic planning of 4-6 September 2019. It is hoped that these technological tools will help the Senior Management team to lead in the implementation of the 4th Industrial revolution. Working with Vodacom, she handed over 100 tablets to 100 learners enrolled for the Targeting Talent Programme(TTP) with WITS

University. She interacted with Representative Council of Learners(RCLs) from 10 education districts. Zebediela learners, following her intervention with fellow MECs, went back to school after months of being barred from going to school by community members demanding a tar road. The handover of Phaladingoe Technical School in partnership with Anglo Platinum is an example of the Department’s commitment to work with the private sector to address infrastructure backlogs across the province. MEC Boshielo also led a delegation on a study tour to Brazil to learn best practices in the area of ICT. In her quest to ensure that schools are functional, she embarked on unannounced visits to schools across the province and these visits are to continue throughout the academic year.

The reflections on the first 100 days would be incomplete without mention of the external examinations that have been conducted thus far. This year saw the supplementary, multi-exam opportunities and senior certificate candidates writing examinations for the first in May and June 2019. The trial or preparatory examination for the National Senior Certificate commenced on 19 August 2019 and is planned to be completed on 16 September 2019.

We invite all stakeholders and role players to support schools in minimising disturbance and ensuring teachers and learners optimize contact time to improve learner performance.

Education is a societal matter!

It is of utmost importance that we deliver on our mandate and we shall put continuously the necessary measures that will ensure that we work hard towards our targets. We will tighten our monitoring and support systems in order to achieve our strategic objectives.

Let us grow South Africa together!



The department’s learner admission system is well positioned to ensure that teaching and learning

commence on the first day of the 2020 Academic year. Our learner admission continues to push back the barriers through providing increased access to quality Early Childhood Development as mandated by the National Development Plan Vision 2030. The Department of Education has noted with concern that some parents and guardians do not apply spaces for admission of their children in public schools within the stipulated time-frames. This has resulted in learners not accessing institutions on the first day of schooling. As the Limpopo Department of Education, our plans dictates that on the first day of every academic year, it must be full teaching and learning because one day lost in education is one day too many.

The process of admission in Public Schools in Limpopo

Department of Education for the 2010 Academic year started in May 2019. Information on admission was disseminated to parents/ applicants through a departmental circular and through the media where parents/ guardians were directed to submit their applications from 8 – 31 May 2019. All completed application forms were processed from June 2019 by schools and the Department commends all the parents and guardians who heeded the call and adhered to the time-frames.

The department is calling upon all parents (South African and Foreign Nationals) whose children are undocumented, i.e. learners without Birth Certificates and Immunisation Certificates to visit Home Affairs and their Embassies respectively to address this challenge as undocumented learners have a bearing on the department’s budget (e.g. NSNP, Learner Transport, LTSM etc.). The issue of undocumented learners is a thorny issue in the sense that parents are often found not to play their part in ensuring that their children have the right documents for admission in our schools.

Furthermore, parents are urged to refrain from submitting fraudulent information in order to gain admission in certain schools. Policy on admission will be applied in admitting learners and parents and guardians who provide fraudulent information may jeopardise the chances of their children to access the preferred school. We have to show responsibility in this regard as wrong information may not assist

the school in knowing exactly where learners come from. It is important for the Department, from a planning point of view to have the correct details about the children in our school.As the demand for space in towns and the city has increased (as a result of learners from villages, new townships and townships), this influx renders town and city schools hotspot areas. In some areas, this influx disrupts teaching and learning on the first day of schooling.

We plead with parents to refrain from violence when they do not get space in their schools of choice but we also want parents to report cases where they are requested to pay registration fees, pre-admission testing fees, or any other fee at the time of application. School fees, and any other fees may only be charged after the learner has been informed in writing of his or her acceptance for admission to the school.

Placement of learners started in July and will be completed in September 2019. A list of all the learners who shall not have been placed will be submitted to circuit offices by schools, the district will facilitate the process of placement based on the criteria outlined in the admission guidelines. Reasonable steps will be taken to place learners nearer to their residential areas. Schools may not use academic performance of learners to determine admission to a school. Lastly, Learners who have failed Grade 12 are allowed to repeat grade 12 twice.

Let us grow South Africa together!

HOD’s foreword

HOD for Limpopo Department of Education Ms Beauty Mutheiwana



Polokwane - The Limpopo MEC for Education Polly Boshielo in partnership with Vodacom handed over 100 tablets to 100 Grade 12 learners who are currently enrolled on the Targeting Talent Programme with Wits University. The handover ceremony was held on 31 August 2019 at Nirvana Primary School hall. The learners are from 23 secondary schools across the province and will be on the TTP programme until they finish their Grade 12 academic schooling, wherein they are taught Maths, Physical Science, English and Life Science during contact sessions. The Targeting Talent Programme is a Pre-University enrichment programme which aims to increase academic, social and psychological preparation of academically talented learners, especially from the socio economically disadvantaged background for admission to South African universities.

Addressing learners, the MEC said she is delighted that she has delivered on her promise to learners

“We have a responsibility to look after our learners from a technology point of view. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is here and we need our learners to move with the times and be active participants. Technology is part of us and in this modern world, we need to empower children more particularly the disadvantaged and marginalised learners with ICT so that they can improve their skills. Let the gadgets be used for the intended purpose and please use them effectively to access beneficial information for your studies and to know more about changes in the knowledge economy “said MEC Boshielo.

Kugan Soobraman of Vodacom South Africa urged learners to put more efforts in their studies and to encourage one another but also not lose hope since education is

a priority. Soobraman explained that Vodacom as a company has embarked on a programme to strengthen the level of education by investing more in basic education. He further explained that Vodacom will offer bursaries to learners who are willing to further their studies. “We want you to know that we will support you, provided you put in the necessary hard work. Do not look at your background but work twice as hard to be successful” said Soobraman.

Various learners who were given an opportunity to say a word, appreciated what the Department in partnership with Vodacom has delivered. One such learner is Sharon Rikhotso from Nghonyama Secondary School, Mopani East who said: “We are the chosen few and for us this must not be taken for granted. We have to make use of these tablets for the intended purposes” said Rikhotso who spoke on behalf of the 100 learners participating in the TTP programme.

MEC BOSHIELO HANDOVER 100 TABLETS

By Phuti Setati

MEC Polly Boshielo and Kugan Soobraman of Vodacom SA (centre) with tablets beneficiaries donated by Vodacom South Africa. Far right is HOD Beauty Mutheiwana and DDG Martin Mashaba.



Polokwane - Limpopo Department of Education successfully hosted the 2019 edition of the Provincial leg at Hayani Guest House, on 3 September 2019. This annual competition which have been going on since 2014, was held in partnership with Old Mutual, Camp I Am, Thavhani Mall and was headlined by MEC Boshielo and Head of Department, Beauty Mutheiwana. Camp I Am and Old Mutual sponsored all the prizes for the Spelling Bee, and prizes for all learners for the debate. The Limpopo top three Spelling BEE Championship winners will on the 21 September 2019 represent Limpopo Province at the National Spelling BEE Championships in Unisa, Pretoria. Intermediate phase learners and senior debate teams from all districts competed at these competitions whose purpose is to help learners in language

development, which plays a role in a child’s eventual success. It further helps learners to improve their spelling skills and increase their vocabulary.

The competition starts at classroom level, continue to circuit, district until provincial level. The spelling and debate competition encourage learners to read and therefore place learners in the middle of learning process. The competition help learners to improve their spelling, increase their vocabulary while also assisting them to learn concepts and to develop correct English usage for lifetime.

Speaking at the competitions, MEC Polly Boshielo said spelling bee and debate is one of the interventions that the Department is involved in, to promote reading. “We have to promote reading with understanding, that is why these competitions are very critical and we must ensure maximum participation from all circuits across

By Ndivhuwo Mukhadathe province” said the MEC adding that early reading is the basic foundation for a child’s educational progress. The Executive Director of Camp I AM, Kai Crooks-Chissano urged parents, teachers, and officials to continue to encourage learners to participate and to thank themselves for having played a part in the province’s Spelling Bee journey including the Minister’s Read to lead campaign.

“We take our responsibility to South Africa’s communities very seriously, and we make significant investments in the upliftment of education, skills development and job creation” said Chissano who indicated that they have distributed 20,000 Spelling Bee workbooks to education departments across South Africa, which represents a contribution of over R990, 000 for Spelling Bee alone. Limpopo received 3420 Spelling Bee Workbooks for their learners.

SPELLING BEE AND DEBATE COMPETITIONS, A SUCCESS

MEC Polly Boshielo(middle) with Spelling Bee and Debate Championship winners, (backrow right to left) HOD Beau-ty Mutheiwana, DDG Dr Komane Mphahlele, Camp I Am Executive Director Kai Crooks-Chissano and Spelling Bee Thavhani Mall Sponsors. Pic: Manoko Chokoe



2019 Provincial Spelling Bee winners are as follows:Name of a learner Name of a school Position District Winning Prize

Komape Seemole Komape Molapo Primary 3 Capricorn NorthTablet, magnetic game, trophy & medal

Seodisa Linda Nelsonskop Primary 2 Waterberg Tablet, chess table, trophy & medal

Moloko Mogau Abiot Kolobe Primary 1 Mogalakwena Tablet, scrabble, trophy & medal

2019 Provincial Debate winners are as follows:Position District Winning Prize

3 Vhembe West Huawei smart phone, trophy & medal

2 Capricorn North Tablet, trophy & medal

1 Mopani West Laptop, dictionary, trophy and medal

MEC Polly Boshielo giving keynote address. Pic: Manoko Chokoe

Position 3-1 from left to right: Komape Seemola, Linda Seodisa and Mogau Moloko. Pic: Manoko Chokoe

Position 1: Mopani West debate winners. Pic: Manoko Chokoe

Position 3: Vhembe West debate winners. Pic: Manoko Chokoe

Position 2: Capricorn North debate winnners. Pic: Manoko Chokoe



Brazil - On 12-18 August 2019, the MEC for Education, Polly Boshielo led a delegation of Education officials on a study tour to Brazil. The main purpose of the study tour was to learn best practices used to deliver forty million people of Brazil out of poverty. Brazil also is the fourth largest producer of food as well as the third largest exporter of materials and products in the world within a space of three decades.

During the study tour, the delegation visited various education and training institutions in the following cities: Brasilia (the capital city of Brazil), Curitiba and São Paulo (the largest city state in Brazil with a population of about 44 million people).

The institutions visited include: State buildings in Brasilia where the judiciary, executive and legislature are housed, CEAN (Centro Ensino Mẻdio Asa Norte) school in Brasilia, Colẽgio POSITIVO University in Curitiba city, the Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology and SENAI (National Service for Industrial Apprenticeship) in the São Paulo city-state. Brazil is a massive country in both geographic size and population terms. It stretches 8,516 km² as compared to South Africa’s 1.22km². The latest data reveals that Brazil has a population of 211 million citizens as compared to South Africa’s 58 million.

In racial and development terms, Brazil is largely Black and urbanised. 50.7% of Brazil’s

population define themselves as black or of mixed race in a country which is 86% urban. On the other hand, South Africa is overwhelmingly Black and its urban landscape is smaller than that of Brazil. Latest census data reveals that Blacks in South Africa form about 92% of the population in a landscape that is 65% urban. In linguistic terms, Brazil is largely monolingual while South Africa is extensively multi-lingual.

The form of state in Brazil is federal and comprises 26 states to manage its vast area and large population, South Africa on the other hand has three spheres of Government with nine provinces and municipalities to manage service delivery to its population.

Despite the above-mentioned differences, Brazil and South Africa have the following similarities: (a) They are middle income countries and have three arms of Government: namely the legislature, executive and judiciary. (b) Schooling in both countries is mandatory for the nine to ten year olds. (c) Both countries have organised their schooling system into home, public and private schools which in South Africa are now termed independent schools.

The Limpopo Department of Education delegation witnessed first-hand the vibrancy of democracy in Brazil. At schools that were visited by the delegation, it was learnt that principals contest for their posts and are appointed for a period of three years. The

4th industrial revolution is not an academic concept discussed in lecture rooms but a reality in the classrooms of Brazil. In the high school the LDoE delegation visited, technology is used by learners to run a radio station. Teachers use interactive boards to present and evaluate lessons. Parents track school attendance of their children using information and communication technology.

At the medical university visited, robots are used to train doctors. These robots are a replica of humans with all “feelings” of a homo sapiens. The operations of these robots are video-taped by doctors to be assessed by the supervisors afterwards. Manufacturing goods for the market use the latest technology for the Brazilian market.

These experiences provided the South African delegation with lessons that have a potential to make real the vision of the LDoE. The Brazil experiences demonstrated the feasibility of using technology to off-set challenges such as distance, low capacities and capabilities as well as lack of appropriate physical infrastructure. In the long run, the implementation of the lessons learnt has a potential to directly link schooling with employment/economy, and, thereby, contribute towards addressing triple challenges facing South Africa.

We are hopeful that having taken along a provincial winner of the National Teaching Awards, would contribute towards growing our own timber. In time, we hope to grow more timber in Limpopo that would be able to multiply manifold the learnings from Brazil.

CHRONICLES OF BRAZIL By Dr Komane Mphahlele



LEARNINGS FROM BRAZIL IN PICS



ECD COMPETITIONS, A MAJOR SUCCESS

ECD and Foundation phase winners of various categories together with departmental officials at the 2019 competitions.

Grade R learners competing in fitting puzzle at the 2019 ECD competitions

Polokwane - Limpopo Department of Education through Early Childhood Development Unit held the annual Foundation Phase Reading, Writing, Mathematics and EFAL Letter Sounding competitions at Tiveka Lodge outside Polokwane from 4 -6 September 2019. The competition which involves all ten districts in the province span from Grades R to 3 and is aimed at creating a positive hype around the area of early literacy and numeracy. This further build children`s speaking and listening skills in their own right while also preparing them for learning to read by developing their phonic knowledge and skills. Through the completion, learners and educators are motivated and encouraged to love reading for comprehension and enjoyment.

Grade R learners participate in reading a picture (emergent reading), telling a story from the picture and emergent writing that involves colouring, cutting and pasting which is very important

in the formative years leading to Grade 1.

Learners in Grade R also compete in fitting a puzzle, skills which appeal to logical thinking, reasoning and summing up a broader picture with the ability to make connections.

In Grade 1-3, learners read grade level specific texts in all the dominant language offerings of the province (Sepedi, Xitsonga, Tshivenda, English and

Afrikaans) while some learners take part in creative writing and Mathematics. Grade 3 further participates in EFAL Letter Sounding which is the highlight of the activities in the phase.

Grade R teachers who made it through the district also bring their portfolios for assessment and the winning teacher gets a lap top donated by NGOs that support the department of Education.

By Seshoka Lephale



PHALADINGOE TECHNICAL HANDED OVER

Mapela - “We thank you very much for this immense investment, your generosity and for working with us in our bid to fast track the provision of school infrastructure”. These were the words of Limpopo Department of Education MEC Polly Boshielo when giving her keynote address to stakeholders, parents, officials and community members during the official handover of infrastructure by Anglo American Platinum to Phaladingoe Technical High school at Mashahleng village, Mapela circuit.

Learners with technical talent now have the ideal facility in which to persue their dream careers because the company has given them a significant boost by upgrading the facility. Chris

Griffith, Chief Executive officer of Anglo American Platinum in giving message of support explained that while the Limpopo Province is richly endowed with minerals, these are non-renewable resources that will run out one day. According to Griffith, it is important that people use these resources to create sustainable benefits for the host’s communities around mines, and one way of doing this is through investing in education.

“Today it is an honour for Anglo American Platinum to present the upgraded facilities of the Phaladingoe Technical High School to the host communities of Mogalakwena and the Limpopo Department of Education” said Griffith. He further indicated that the project includes learner and educator development, training of school management, and the refurbishment and

upgrading of infrastructure, renovations of classrooms.

Since Anglo American Platinum started collaborating with Phaladingoe and local community, the results at the school has improved tremendously resulting in the school obtaining position one (1) in Mapela circuit. The Company School Project include refurbishing of classrooms and construction of four multi-functional workshops, two science laboratories, a library, kitchen, dining hall and administration block. The multi –functional workshop are in line with the School`s Project drive to deliver future engineering and artisans, while the workshops cater for vocational training in the civil, electrical and plumbing fields.

By Seshoka Lephale

Left: Anglo American CEO Chris Griffith, Kgoshi Hans Malesela Langa, MEC Polly Boshielo, Acting Mayor of Mogalakwena Cllr Malesela Mokwele and Reginal Manager for DMRE Azwihangwisi Mulaudzi. Right: MEC touring the laboratory Pic: Sam Makondo



Polokwane - In an endeavour to maximise participation by learners on matters of education, Limpopo MEC for Education Polly Boshielo held an interaction with Representative Councils of Learners from 10 education districts to discuss some of challenges that Limpopo schools continue to face across the province. The MEC and RCLs dialogue took place at Hayani Lodge outside Polokwane and was an opportunity for MEC Boshielo to listen to learners and for learners to present to the MEC their day to day challenges while at school and suggest possible solutions and support that might be required to advance quality education in schools. Speaking at the event, MEC Boshielo emphasised the importance of active participation by RCLs in a manner that will make schools conducive to teaching and learning. “We must unite and collaborate behind a common cause of ensuring that teaching and learning remain a priority. We expect RCLs in our schools to lead from the front on matters of schools violence, substance abuse and teenage pregnancy. Talk and advice one another as learners on these social ills” said

By Dimakatso Maleka

MEC Polly Boshielo(4th from right) with Representative Council of Learners (RCL) signing a pledge . Pic: Sam Makondo

MEC Polly Boshielo(far left) during the RCL meeting. Pic: Sam makondo

MEC Boshielo. Learners were able to live up to expectations as they expressed themselves in an organised manner through topics which included the impact of child headed families towards teaching and learning and the role of RCLs to support such families. This topic touched the MEC and ended up adopting three learners who she promised to look after as they have no parents. The three learners adopted by MEC are Mercy Mametjie from Zava High School in Mopani East, Kally Mogale from Relebogile High from Mopani East and Kgothaso Sathekge from Mokonenkwenoko High School. Touched by the stories, these three learners presented, the MEC said: “I am speechless and I had no idea that you were going through all these. I am taking you under my wing from today”. Other topics that RCLs presented to the MEC

included matters of school safety, teenage pregnancy, substance abuse and the role of RCLs in improving learner performance. RCLs called for the department to have integrated programmes in collaboration with other Departments such as Social Development, Community Safety and the Department of Health when addressing some of these issues.

RCLs made a commitment by signing a pledge that they will be involved in transforming and democratizing Limpopo province through strategic leadership and corporate governance, also by dedicating themselves to the achievement of the vision and mission of the province and further more by observing the South African Constitutional values in their day-to-day activities.

MEC BOSHIELO INTERACTS WITH RCLs



we need from you is commitment, to say ‘NO’ to teenage pregnancy, alcohol and drugs, violence and gangsterism” pleaded MEC.“I wish you the best of luck, go make your parents and Limpopo proud”, said Boshielo.

Polokwane - The Limpopo Department of Education together with University of Witwatersrand (WITS) and Student Equity and Talent Management Unit (SETMU) held an annual provincial Targeting Talent Programme (TTP) in Bolivia Lodge recently. MEC for Education Polly Boshielo, SETMU Director Zena Richards, WITS and SETMU Programme Coordinators came collectively to support and facilitate the educational opportunity to 100 identified 2019 learners across the province from Grade 10 - Grade 12. This three year cycle programme assists and prepares learners from underprivileged backgrounds to access higher education opportunities and to provide them with the support needed to be successful in their high school studies. TTP previous and current learners who benefited from the Programme also came to the event to encourage new learners to complete the programme as it will benefits them academically, socially and personally. Zena Richards highlighted and confirmed that various sessions which includes educators and mentors will motivate and support the learners in the programme throughout their cycle.

MEC Boshielo in her message encouraged learners to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by the Department in partnership with WITS Universty. She said they must fulfil and expand their knowledge, to make use of all resources provided and ensure that they excel in their studies as future leaders of this country. “You are going into this programme not to brag, not to

sleep, not because you are better than anybody. I am going to help you rise ‘ka nkane’ and if there is anything or anybody that makes you not to rise come to me”. “With the help of your parents together with the Department, we will ensure that you succeed. What

TALENT PROGRAMME ADVANCES LEARNERSBy Mankoe Manamela

MEC for Education Polly Boshielo(Left), SETMU Director Zena Richards at the TTP in Bolivia. Pic: Mankoe Manamela

TTP learners from Hluvuka High School. Pic: Mankoe Manamela



Ramotlhale Primary School learners receiving their School shoes and Sanitary towels from Old Mutual Pic: Refilwe Manaka

OLD MUTUAL DONATES SHOES

This initiative was in celebration of Nelson Mandela Day at Ramotlale Primary school, Ga Ramokgopa in Capricorn North recently. Nelson Mandela is an icon who once said that: “Education is the most powerful tool that we can use to change the world”. In support of Mandela Day, Ward Councillor Masilo Rathaga said that Nelson Mandela has done a lot for the country and the people. We have to follow his example and give back to the community. He said as people contribute, they must also think about the social ills that affect learners in schools and related problems such as drug abuse, alcohol abuse and teenage pregnancy in our societies that have a potential of destroying future generations. Rathaga advised parents to lead by example by providing good care to their children, monitor and

support children school work. He urged parents to monitor children outside family environment during playing times because some adults take advantage of the situation to engage them in illegal activities. “Parents must really check what types of friends their children are playing or associating with” concluded Rathaga.

Speaking at the celebration Lawrence Gabela of Old Mutual said: “We have supported government for almost 104 years, today we have brought brand new school shoes and sanitary towels for our learners. Positive self-esteem and dignity has a potential to improve the confidence of learnes tremendously. Old Mutual is fully committed to working with Limpopo Department of Education to achieve quality education including Mathematics and Science subjects so that ultimately the standard of learning and teaching is taken to a high level

in our schools” said Gabela. He urged educators to accept and to work with Old Mutual consultants because the company recently unleashed team to assess the school buildings, paintings and other infrastructural challenges with the intention to address them for the greater good of education in the province.

Dan Madiba from Capricorn district on behalf of the Department of Education appreciated the campaign by Old Mutual to assist schools. “We come a long way as the department and therefore any efforts by Old Mutual to assist our schools is highly appreciated. Although our department is doing well in other programs such as NSNP, delivery of LTSM amongst others there is a need to improve performances in our schools to achieve quality education for our learners and it starts with learners coming to school daily” said Madiba

By Phuti Setati and Debra Setati

Ga Ramokgopa - The partnership between Limpopo Department of Education and Old Mutual continues to provide much needed support for learners in rural communities. The collaboration assists the department to reach out to schools with learners from disadvanteged backgrounds in order to achieve access to quality education.



DEPARTMENT HOLD FULL - SERVICE SYMPOSIUM

This Symposium themed “Full Service Schools as centers of Inclusive learning, care and support” was attended by prominent officials from the Department, as well as Principals, Circuit Managers and SGB Chairpersons.It focused on litany of salient matters, including schools developing business plans to transform towards inclusivity, establishment of functional support SBST (School based support structures) implementation of the SIAS Policy (Screening Identification, Assessment And Support) as well as the critical area of Curriculum Differentiation

By Refilwe Manaka

Dan Mabote Director for Inclu-sive Education and Public Special Schools addressing delegates during the Symposium.

IM&E practitioners from variuos districts across the province listening attentively to the presenters.

and Differentiated Assessment. Speaking at the Symposium, Dan Mabote Director for Inclusive Education and Public Special Schools said Inclusive Education will improve learner performance because the focus on teaching in classrooms will be on vulnerable learners, those learners with either moderate disability conditions, or those experiencing barriers to learning, participation and development. He further indicated that it is encouraging that mainstream schools are opening their doors to a variety of learners thus destroying the traditional myth that Inclusive Education is about Special Schools. Mabote cited schools such as Thabo Mbeki Primary, Eureka Primary

Polokwane - A historic Symposium of the 25 Full-Service Schools in the province held at the Royal Hotel Polokwane from 14 to 16 July 2019 has proven to be a momen-tous milestone to enhance Inclusive Education in public ordinary schools

Seshego - The Integrated Monitoring and Evaluation (IM&E) Unit in the department of education conducted a two day capacity building workshop at Mastec Institute at Seshego. The workshop aimed at improving practitioner’ skills on matters of research, data collection and data analysis. These are critical skills needed in enhancing the monitoring and evaluation of the departmental programmes as set out in the strategic documets of the department such as annual plans. The workshop was attended by IM&E practitioners from all

By Evans Phalengthe district who are charged with the responsibility of monitoring departmental programmes on the ground in terms of impact and assessment.

“We intend to improve service delivery in the sector as a whole and this is one of the programs tocontinue and cover whole range of programme performance measures. In elevating education to its rightful place, we want to see an improvement in the quality of learning and teaching, hence all successful societies have one thing in common, they invested in education “said Dr Naledzani Rasila, Director of IM&E in the Limpopo Department of Education.

CAPACITY BUILDING WORKSHOP FOR IM&E PRACTITIONERS

Mammoka Secondary, Raeleng secondary as schools that fall in the category of Full-Service schools.



Polokwane - Limpopo Department of Education successfully hosted the Provincial awareness Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Day workshop at Hayani Guest House and Conference Center in Polokwane. People with ASD might have problems talking with you, or they might not look you in the eye when you talk to them. They may also have restricted interests and repetitive behaviours. They may spend a lot of time putting things in order, or they may say the same sentence again and again. They may often seem to be in their “own world.”

The long awaited workshop was attended by many stakeholders such as Epilepsy Limpopo, Autism South Africa, SANASE Limpopo, Circuit managers among others aimed at training officials of the department and educators on Autism neurological condition, its characteristics as well as educational intervention for learners living with this condition.A series of legal and policy mandates enjoin the department of education to enhance inclusivity both in theory and in practice in all school classrooms, especially the phenomenon of hero diversity. One of the critical omissions regarding learners with intellectual, cognitive and neurological impairments has been learners with the condition of autism spectrum disorders.

The Director for Inclusive Education and Special Schools in the Limpopo Department of Education Dan Mabote in his presentation outlined the theme of the workshop as: “Show You Care, Be (ASD) Autism Spectrum

Disorder Aware”. Mabote urged the people attending the workshop to provide information about Autism condition in order to eradicate false information on learner’s having the challenge by intervening medically and educationally. He further informed the audience that Autism is not curable but it is treatable and that every school must take full responsibility to publicize the challenge by conscientising people about the challenge. “All teachers, circuit officials and principals must learn about Autism and should inform people around school premises to implement the strategy to ensure proper handling” said Mabote Chief Director for Curriculum Support Services Cebile Khanye expressed her delight because the workshop was designed to teach people on how to live with Autistic people. In her address, Khanye mentioned New Horizon Special School as one of the school identified as a pilot project. She requested the participants to be knowledgeable about Autism so that everyone can begin to

LEARNERS WITH AUTISM CHALLENGES NEED SUPPORTBy Phuti Setati and Debra Setati

nurture and ensure that they really move towards having a dedicated schools for Autism in the province. “No Child Left Behind” that is the motto she mentioned emphasizing that no child must be left behind because of the disorder or disability. She encouraged people to provide an appropriate support to the needy learners. Khanye reminded principals and teachers about the challenge of Autism by indicating that Education is the only place where God placed the child of which educators must ensure that teaching and learning becomes priority in public schools. She reminded people that teaching is a calling from God.

Mary Moeketsi from Autism South Africa explained that Autism is not a disability but a disorder that cannot be cured but it can be treated. She pleaded with people to pay much attention to the people with Autism and to understand them carefully. Moeketsi and Autism South Africa encouraged people to talk about Autism and to provide full support to the people living with Autism.

Left: Cebile Khanye Chief Director for Curriculum Services speaking during the Autism workshop. Right: Maluta Mulibana, Deputy Manager for Special Programmes from the Office of The Premier presenting during the ASD workshop. Pic: Refilwe Manaka



LEARNERS WITH AUTISM CHALLENGES NEED SUPPORT

Polokwane - Limpopo Department of Education MEC Polly Boshielo recently welcomed a group of 38 Peace Corps from United States of America(USA) in a ceremony held at Zororo Lodge, Dalmada in Polokwane. The group which arrived in the country on the 10th July is the 40th education group since the signing of Memorandum of Understing(MOU) between South Africa and United States of America.

In welcoming the group to Limpopo schools, MEC Boshielo said education remains a responsiblity of everyone worldwide. “In South Africa, we say education is a societal issue and as such everybody must get involved in the teaching and nurturing of young minds. We must also work together as various nationalities to enhance the quality of teaching and learning in schools and it should where such a school is located” said the MEC adding that the

By Selina Molope

MEC BOSHIELO WELCOMES PEACE CORPS

Department is ready to work with the Peace Corps to advance quality education across the province.

The Peace Corps have already undergone a Pre-service training which involved learning local languages and cultures, CAPS Curriculum in Foundation Phase and Remedial work in grade 4, 5, 6 and 7. The training was followed by the swearing in of the group before their deployment to

respective districts for a period of two years. This is the Literacy Enrichment Project by the US Peace Corps and South Africa. Its main objective is to focus on increasing the capacity of Grade R teachers to teach literacy skills more effectively and to strengthen the general teaching skills of Grade R teachers including positive classrooms culture, student-centered teaching techniques and gender - equitable practices.

MEC Polly Boshielo(centred)flanked by US Peace Corps and officials of the department. Pic: Sam Makondo

MEC Polly Boshielo(standing) welcoming US Peace Corps. Pic: Sam Makondo



Seshego - In an attempt to practicalise the slogan ‘Education For All’ the Limpopo Department of Education launched the disability Forum for learners with critical Intellectual Impairments(Forum II) at Grace & Hope Special School in Seshego.The forum was launched in line with international trends and universal philosophy of inclusive education in Special Schools and has been tasked among other responsibilities to deal with the implementation strategy on learners with Intellectual Impairments and how to embark on strategic ideas and opinions in helping learners with different categories such as Mild Moderate Intellectual Disabilities(MMID), Profound intellectual Disability (PID) and Severe Intellectual

Disabilities(SID). This categories can be distinguished in different ways such as intellectually giving signs of growing sounds.

This is the third historic forum to cater learners with special educational needs, because the department had previously launched the forum for hearing impairments and the forum for usual impairments. The Forum II for learners with intellectual impairments will constitute 25 Special Schools and this will be divided into MMID, SID and PID categories. The forum launched will among other topical issues deal with categories of conditions of Intellectual Duality including Down syndrome, Autism, Epilepsy, Cerebral Palsy etc.

The forum will specifically further consider educational support

programmes and interventions, as well as the appropriate curriculum for these learners as an educational ripple. Inclusive education policy dictates that everyone has a right to education, special schools and schools such as Mhinga, Pfunanani, Lebone, Nthabiseng will benefit from this forum

Supporting the launch of the Forum II, Selaelo Makgato from the Office of the Premier requested parents to support learners hence they say when a child with either of the categories of impairments is enrolled, they don’t notice any progress but deterioration while their learning programs needs to be understood and supported. Makgato urged all the participants in Special Schools to play a role in contributing ideas, problem solving and strategy implementations.

FORUM TO BENEFIT LEARNERS WITH INTELLECTUAL IMPAIRMENTS (II)By Lephale Seshoka

Selaelo Makgato from Office of The Premier urging participants to support Forum II. Pic: Supplied

Dan Mabote Director Inclusive Education and Special Schools. Pic: Supplied



Pretoria - Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has released the Teaching and Learning International Survey report (TALIS), a global study coordinated by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Releasing the results at Nellmapius Secondary School in Pretoria, the Minister indicated that South Africa is the only African Country represented in a list that includes Australia, Japan, Korea, Norway, USA and the United Kingdom among the 48 countries that participated in the 2018 survey.

The study in the main is a large scale survey, investigating the conditions of teaching and learning environment in schools

across participating Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development countries and partner countries.

“We are pleased that we have participated in the 2018 Teaching and Learning International Survey. We have once again positioned our country as a learning system, eager and willing to measure our capabilities among the best in the world. We are committed towards building an excellent education system that stands up to high international benchmarks and standards” Among other things, the survey concluded that our teachers are committed to the noble cause of public schooling and they correctly see themselves as the frontline soldiers in improving learners’ outcomes.

The survey also concludes

that many of our teachers are motivated by an intrinsic need to influence learners’ cognitive and overall well-being as citizens.

The Minister also indicated that the survey strengthens the narrative of a basic education that is on the rise. “Our duty therefore is to accelerate the implementation of existing basic education policies such as scaling of the teacher development initiatives so that we may inspire and enable them to innovate” said the Minister adding that the department will use the survey to identify and share best practice to reduce existing gaps between professional vision and pedagogical practice.

For more information on the TALIS Research Report visit: www.education.gov.za/talis.aspx

By Sam Makondo

MINISTER MOTSHEKGA LAUNCHES TALIS REPORT

Limpopo MEC for Education Polly Boshielo, Deputy Minister Dr Reginah Mhaule and Minister Angie Motshekga. Pic: Sam Makondo



Randburg - The Department of Basic Education held the 19th annual ABC Motsepe South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod (SASCE) National Championship competition in Rhema Bible Church, Randburg. The competition remains one of the most crucial school enrichment programmes coordinated by the Department of Basic Education to promote unity in diversity, national reconciliation, positive values, social transformation and social cohesion among school going South African young children. The competition event which lasted for four days was held under the theme “Celebrating 25 years of our Democracy”. The event was graced by the Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga, Limpopo MEC for Education Polly Boshielo, Department of

Education senior officials from different provinces, parents and music composers. Learners competed in various categories that includes Folklore (traditional music), Solo Soprano, Mezzo Soprano, Solo Tenor, Solo Bass, Duet, Small ensemble. More than 7 000 learners from the nine provinces including Primary and Special schools participated in this year’s competition.

Minister Angie Motshekga in her keynote address said: “The Department is humbled by the interest shown by schools in all provinces to take part in this prestigious event. The ABC Motsepe SASCE is the flagship programme of the basic education section, intended to promote unity in diversity, national reconciliation, social cohesion and national identity. I applaud schools in all provinces that registered to participate in the 2019 ABC

Motsepe SASCE competition and encourage all schools to take part.”

2019 ABC Motsepe SASCE Winners who represented the Limpopo Province are Mahlase Secondary (Capricorn North District) in Folklore category and soloists from Mphari (Mogalakwena District) Secondary School in Duet “Pelo e ja serati”, both schools won position 3.

Minister Angie Motshekga congratulated and extended her gratitude to the school management teams, school governing bodies, teachers, parents and learners for their contribution towards the success of the event and acknowledged the hard work done by schools, choir conductors that always go an extra mile in ensuring that the choirs were prepared well to compete.

By Mankoe Manamela

MINISTER HAILS CHORAL COMPETITIONS A SUCCESS

Mphari High School Soloist Mashela Kekana, Thapelo Ramotebele and DDG Martin Mashaba at the 2019 ABC Motsepe SASCE Championship in Rhema Bible Church, Randburg. Pic: Manoko Chokoe

Minister for Basic Education Angie Motshekga at the ABC Motsepe SASCE Championship. Pic: Manoko Chokoe



A TEAM OF THREE MECs VISIT ZEBEDIELA

The community has been demanding a tar-road in the area and have since from 10 of April 2019 prevented children from attending schools, which is a direct violation of a children’s right to basic education. Seven schools, four of which are primary and three secondary schools were affected during the process.

Speaking at the gathering, MEC Boshielo was clear in her message that schooling cannot continue to be affected in the manner it has happened in the past three months and she urged parents to look at the issue from an education point of view. “This is simply too much

Zebediela -Education MEC Polly Boshielo, together with MEC for Transport and Community Safety Dickson Masemola and MEC for Public Works Roads and Infrastructure Monica Mochadi met and engaged with the community in Zebediala to tackle the issues that led to service delivery protests that had ravaged communities on for a long period of time.

By Sam Makondo

From left: MEC for Education Polly Boshielo, MEC for Transport Dickson Masemola and MEC for Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure Monica Mochadi addressing community of Zebediela. Pic: Phuti Setati

for our learners and wherever our learners are, they are seriously traumatised and it will be difficult for them to cope with matters of learning” She urged the community to allow schooling to resume immediately while the community is busy with discussions on the matter of a road. “We are ready to resume with classes, utilise school holidays to catch up on the lost time, offer extra lessons over weekends and also to offer the necessary counselling to all the learners in order for them to cope with the normal schooling. We will provide psychologists and social workers in this regard but schooling must resume” said the MEC in her quest to ensure that a

Black Child rises ‘ka nkane.’The community presented their conditions part of which include allowing schooling to resume on condition that four community members who are arrested must be released with immediate effect. The MEC indicated that as the Department of Education, we cannot temper with the judicial processes of the country, its procedures and the rule of law. “Our concern is the right to basic education which is being infringed upon. The rights of our children are not respected and we need to explore all avenues to ensure that they are protected”. Indicated the MEC adding that the communities need to understand that education is a pre-condition for development.



ZEBEDIELA LEARNERS ARE BACK AT SCHOOL

Zebediela - Subsequent to the intervention by team of three MECs, finally teaching and learning has resumed in all 7 schools that were affected by

By Seshoka Lephalethe service delivery protest in Zebediela. The department was accordingly able to implement its recovery plan that ensured learners are on par with other learners in the province.

‘We thank all parents and leaders

who worked with us in ensuring that learners are back to school and I appeal to community leaders and parents to act swiflty by disallowing any acts that are hell-band to destroy the future of our children” said MEC



Polokwane - In her Budget Vote, MEC for Education Polly Boshielo said: ‘We will ensure that all Senior Management and District Directors are provided with tablets to lead in the implemenattion of the 4th Industrial Revolution” This undertaking was fullfilled when tablets were handed over to all Senior Management Stuff members during the Department’s strategic planning session that was held at Karibu Lodge from the 4th to the 6th September. Handing over the tablets, MEC Boshielo said we need top management that move with the times in terms of the technological advancement that are taking place across the world. “These technological tools must help everyone in senior management to communicate programmes of the Department effectively, efficiently and timeosly” indicated MEC Boshielo after handing over the tablets to each and every

manager. She added that these are working tools and she expects top management to be availabe at anytime of the day so that they can be able to timeously respond to all issues and challenges that will need their attention. “Issues of education are everyday and must be resolved with speed. We have a serious responsibility of

protecting and promoting the right to basic education. Education is a societal matter and accordingly we expect understanding and cooperation from all members of our communities where our schools are located. We must work together to ensure that a Black child rises ‘ka nkani’” concluded the MEC.

MEC HAND OVER TABLETS TO SENIOR MANAGEMENT

By Sam Makondo

MEC Polly Boshielo flanked by departmental senior officials after they have received their tablet from the MEC.

HOD Beauty Mutheiwana receivng a tablet from MEC Polly Boshielo



Thuto News | 1st Quarter | Edition 2018/2019

The heartland of Southern Africa - development is about people

Sekhukhune - In her quest to enhance quality teaching, learning functionality of schools and good governance the MEC for Education Polly Boshielo paid unannonced visit to Rantobeng and Masemola Secondary School. During her visit to these schools she met with Senior Management Teams, learners themselves and school principals and urged them to take their work seriously and for learners to be disciplined and commited to receiving education.

Speaking to the School Management Teams at the two schools, the MEC emphasized the importance of having

By Seshoka Lephale

MEC’S UNANNOUNCED VISITS TO SCHOOLS

COMMUNICATIONS TEAM:Editor: Sam Makondo

Sub-Editors: Seshoka Lephale, Mosebjane KgaffeGraphic Designer: Manamela Mankoe

Corporate Writers and Photographers: Manamela Mankoe, Selina Molope, Ndivhuwo MukhadaIntern Journalists: Dimakatso Maleka, Evans Phaleng, Manoko Chokoe, Debra Setati,

Refilwe Manaka, Phuti Setati

Physical Address: 113 Biccard Street, PolokwaneTel.: 015 290 7600

Twitter: @edu_limp, Facebook: Limpopo Department of Education, Instagram: limpopoeducationhttp://www.edu.limpopo.gov.za/

schools that are functional, a school that caters for the needs of the learners and schools that performs as expected year in and year out. Addressing learners, MEC Boshielo urged

them to focus on learning. “As learners, you are here to learn. Allow educators to teach you so that everyday you return home with the necessary knowledge”

MEC POLLY BOSHIELO - Limpopo

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