Gqeberha, South Africa – 8 December 2024, the Mandela Bay Development Agency, operator of the NMB Stadium, on behalf of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, is pleased with the momentum and succeeding implementation of the stadium’s commercial turnaround plan. This past weekend saw fruits of proactive lobbying and bidding earlier in the year when CEO, Anele Qaba, and stadium management engaged several rugby franchises for the opportunities to bring topflight rugby to the Bay.

The Investec Champions Cup feature that saw the much-loved DHL Stormers facing RC Toulon, with nearly 30 000 enthusiastic fans, is an outcome of these bold initiatives and has proven to be a hit, both on the field and for the economy of the Bay. The stands of the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium shook with the excitement of enthusiastic rugby fans as the Frenchmen closed the day, winning 24 to 14.

“The event was a commercial triumph for the city and the stadium,” said Qaba, who leads the management of the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

“The success of events like this brings much needed tourism and hospitality revenue into the city as well as present us with an opportunity to showcase what we can do for teams and fans alike at this majestic multipurpose stadium. This is important for us as we rebuild market confidence with the aim of attracting even larger events and test matches into the Bay.”

The Investec Champions Cup event follows closely on the heels of the recent Home of Legends Cup soccer tournament, showcasing the stadium’s ability and capacity of the team to host major sporting events back-to-back.

Qaba added: “Adding to the fan experience of the day was the opening of the revamped Royal Lounge, designed to enhance the fan experience at the stadium. The new lounge offers premium viewing experience, ensuring that fans can enjoy the game in style and comfort, and we intend to activate this space as a permanent onsite restaurant and entertainment facility that is accessible for seven days a week.”

The stadium and the fans were commended for their warm reception and hospitality by both John Robson, coach of the DHL Stormers, and RC Toulon coach, Pierre Mignoni. Speaking at the post-match press conference, both coaches pointed to the spirit and enthusiasm of the fans who came out to support the game as a highlight of their visit to Nelson Mandela Bay.

Also complementing the stadium experience was the activation of the “Fans Village”, a collaboration between media partners and the sponsors.

The excitement didn’t end after the final whistle as Bay Executive Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe, accompanied by Provincial MP, JP Pretorius, MMC for SRAC, Bongeka Mankahla, and  the MBDA Board Chairperson visited both teams in their change rooms to much jubilation, especially from the winning Frenchmen.

Mayor Lobishe’s visit to the French team was met by jubilant celebrations and dancing as the mayor thanked the team for gracing the Bay, wishing them well for the rest of the tournament and encouraged them to stay longer in the Bay.

To conclude the team visits, the mayor and her delegation went on to visit the DHL Stormers’ change room for words of encouragement and an open invitation to the team to consider the Bay Stadium as an alternative home ground.

Mayor Lobishe commented: “The success of this Investec Champions Cup underscores the Nelson Mandela Bay’s potential as a premier destination for international sports and entertainment. With events like this, the city of Gqeberha can shine as a vibrant hub for sports enthusiasts and visitors alike.”

Issued by Luvuyo Bangazi, MBDA Spokesperson luvuyo.bangazi@mbda.co.za. (041) 811 8200.

For more info, please contact Nicole Klokow, MBDA Communications Manager at Nicole.klokow@mbda.co.za (041) 811 8200.

As the year winds down, many of us are counting the weeks to that well-deserved year-end break – whether it’s an exciting trip with loved ones or a peaceful retreat at home. However, before you shift into holiday mode, now is the perfect time to pause and take stock of something extremely important – your estate plan. Ensuring everything is in order now will give you peace of mind for the year ahead.

A common response to most estate planning questions is: “I have a will, I’m sorted, thanks.” But as a Chartered Accountant CA(SA) and Certified Financial Planner CFP, with a passion for comprehensive estate planning, I have seen the true value of having a well-considered estate plan ready to meet your loved ones’ needs.

What many people overlook is that estate planning extends far beyond having a signed will in place. Vital aspects need to be considered while reviewing your estate plan. Below is a list of some important points – but there are more to consider:

• Is there sufficient liquidity in your estate?
• Have you considered the level of estate duty and capital gains tax applicable to your estate, and what can be done now to minimise these wealth taxes?
• Should the unexpected happen, how long will it take for your family to wind up a deceased estate, and will your heirs need financial support in the interim?
• Have you been made aware that there are some assets over which your will has no authority?
• These assets include: retirement funds, living annuities, life policies and offshore endowments, which we term ‘non-will assets’. Thorough estate planning involves considering the nominated beneficiaries of these non-will assets to ensure they align with your wishes.
• Who has the necessary skills and contacts to wind up your estate? Should you burden a family member with a sole executor appointment?
• What can an executor charge a fee for?
• Have you thought about other miscellaneous costs incurred in the winding up of an estate, such as: conveyancing fees, tax consultant fees and the Master’s fee?
• Are you associated with a private company or family trust, and how do the shareholdings in and loans to and from these legal entities impact your estate plan?
• If you own and manage a successful family business, have you considered proper succession planning for the children involved in the business? Having this in place is crucial and ensures that family wealth continues in the most tax-efficient way for future generations. Passing on intergenerational wealth via a local or offshore trust and investment holding company structure is one potential solution.
• If you’re a high-net-worth individual in possession of offshore immovable property, have you considered where that property is domiciled? This will directly impact the succession of the property. For example, immovable property in France is subject to French succession law. Forced heirship rules protect direct descendants and surviving spouses, which must be adhered to regardless of what your will states. For example, if you have one biological child, he or she automatically takes ownership of 75% of that immovable property, while your surviving spouse receives only 25%. Your heirs will also be personally liable for any liabilities relating to this immovable property according to France’s succession laws.
• In terms of bank accounts domiciled in the UK, probate in the UK is required. Probate is the official proving of a will. Planning ahead with a financial planner well-versed in cross-border estate planning can help avoid potential delays in winding up your worldwide deceased estate and reduce high costs associated with UK solicitors.
• For ownership of UK immovable property, we look to the succession laws in the UK. Fortunately, like South Africa, the UK adopts freedom of testation. However, it is recommended that a UK will be drafted to address this immovable property.
• Estate planning is invaluable for the global investor and is a discipline in itself. If you are a South African owning direct offshore shares, this can be attractive from a rand hedge and South African political and economic perspective. However, this is not the case from an estate planning point of view. It is important to note that there is a risk of foreign inheritance tax that could apply to these direct shareholdings upon your death, as the situs (location) of the shares will determine additional tax consequences. Only a few countries have double inheritance tax treaties with South Africa. Properly structuring these offshore shareholdings can make a significant difference and help avoid the risk of hefty foreign inheritance tax.

All of the above may seem overwhelming, which is why I advise my clients to dedicate time to their estate planning, starting with smaller, more manageable tasks and gradually working up to the bigger issues. Here are some practical tips:

Granting a general power of attorney to your spouse and adult children has proven to be incredibly useful should you ever fall physically ill but retain your mental capacity. South African banks, however, will only accept their own special power of attorney for your bank accounts, so it is important to have this in place. I also encourage my clients to update their digital estates template once a year to keep their various online usernames, PINs and passwords valid and stored with recent copies of their will and general power of attorney.

Drawing up a monthly spending plan detailing how bills are settled (debit orders vs EFTs) and keeping it up to date is a simple task I recommend my clients manage consistently. Should the unexpected ever happen, your surviving spouse and adult children will be better equipped to navigate their new normal with financial guidelines to assist them.

A letter of wishes can be a thoughtful and meaningful way to communicate your desires for the distribution of sentimental items. It allows you to provide clear guidance to family members and avoid misunderstandings or conflicts after you’re gone. Yes, it’s about the big things, but also the little things that prove to be so powerful when a loved one passes away. The overall aim is to have an airtight estate plan that makes things as stress-free as possible for those you leave behind.

Crop production in South Africa is overshadowed by storm clouds, and not the type that farmers crave. A multitude of uncertainties combine to darken prospects for the country’s crop farmers, which include climate change, water shortages, soil degradation, disease, economic instability and infrastructure and energy restrictions.

That is why researchers at the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences of the North-West University (NWU) pursue active solutions for the country’s most critical agricultural issues.

To be able to do this, the NWU must remain at the forefront of innovation, and two new agriculture-oriented projects testify to the commitment of the university in this regard: the NWU AgriHub and the HVAC Growth Facility.

Prof Jacques Berner, sub-programme leader, is an expert in the field of crop physiology, with a focus on photosynthesis and the adjustment of ancient grain crops to environmental stress. His expertise lies in the investigation of physiological reactions of crops to drought and extreme temperatures. He explains more about the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Growth Facility (HVAC Growth Facility): “This advanced facility will offer controlled environments that mimic various climatic conditions, including variations in temperature, light, humidity, drought and flooding. It will create the ideal environment for research on the impact of climate change on plant growth and development. By simulating different environmental variables, the facility will enable researchers to study how plants react to varying light conditions, temperature stressors and water shortages. This will provide valuable insights into their resilience, adaptability and overall health in changing environmental conditions. This research can potentially make a considerable contribution to agricultural practices and strategies to mitigate climate change,” says Berner.

The university is also looking beyond the immediate future at other possibilities of supporting the agricultural sector.

Prof Gerhard du Preez of the Agricultural Sciences group adds: “We want to establish the NWU AgriHub of Excellence, which is located just 4km from the Potchefstroom Campus of the NWU, as a centre for agricultural innovation, research and training. This season, we are starting a grain-based long-term trial and will focus on diverse agricultural systems to promote sustainable food production. Our vision is to develop solutions that will ensure food security and environmental sustainability while we bridge knowledge gaps between the academic world, the industry, the government and farmers. This centre will serve as a platform for influential research, industry co-operation and the development of agricultural systems that are designed for the challenges of the future,” Berner says.

According to Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU, the university is investigating the possibility of establishing a veterinary school, which will work with, among other institutions, the NWU’s subject group Animal Health, and the agricultural programme will work to make food security a priority.

“In the country and in the North West, agriculture plays an important role in adding economic value, providing job opportunities, promoting rural development and creating food security. If we look at food security, there is currently a great need in our province and in our country, but the university has the capacity and expertise to make an appreciable difference in this sector, and we increase our involvement in the agricultural sector by further developing our partnerships with the government and the private sector,” says Prof Tyobeka.

In addition to these efforts, the NWU is also looking at co-operation with the struggling agricultural colleges in the province, and considerable progress has already been made in this regard.

Agriculture is one of the pillars supporting the South African economy, and the NWU is committed to ensuring that this sector is not only healthy, but also grows. 

• For the full article in English, follow the link here: https://news.nwu.ac.za/north-west-university-forefront-agricultural-innovation

Things are changing faster than ever before. Most industries are experiencing rapid and substantial disruptions. Education is no different. In most parts of the world, the traditional view of education in a classroom with a teacher and 25 to 35 children is becoming outdated. Parents and employers are demanding more from the learners who emerge from our education system. Gone are the days when we produced wave upon wave of school leavers who were expected to fit into a highly standardised world. The new buzzword is individualisation, a strong post-modern shift in society and one of the most important challenges for 21st century education.

The ancient Greeks understood how to individualise the learning journey and develop learners’ full potential. They employed tutors to guide individuals or small groups, covering a broad set of skills and topics. Learning was often based on the Socratic Method, a way of questioning learners to help them arrive at new insights. Similar examples of individualised learning techniques can be found in most ancient civilisations, from India and China in the East to Africa and the Islamic world, Europe and the Americas. Since then, children of wealthy parents have often been schooled by a highly skilled (and often very expensive) private tutor. Even children from less wealthy families could become apprentices under a master, receiving personal instruction in their craft. This level of focus on the abilities and needs of individual learners typically results in superior-quality learning outcomes.

Unfortunately, most people cannot afford a private teacher. The introduction of formal schooling over the past 200 years aimed to create a system in which most of the population could be schooled to an acceptable standard at an affordable cost. Affordability and consistency meant that we had to compromise on quality: larger groups of learners were assigned to teachers (with less individual focus), and learning topics were standardised into a curriculum.

This carbon-copy learning approach is becoming obsolete and is being challenged in the modern economy. Most people agree that the future will require adaptable and multi-skilled individuals to contribute to society. We must transform the education system to match this requirement; however, we do not have to reinvent the wheel. We will do well to incorporate the wisdom of ancient civilisations when building education for the future. They understood that the focus should be on truly individualised learning across multiple topics, competencies and character qualities, at the learner’s optimal pace to reach their full potential.

How will this happen? Technology will play a critical role in the individualised learning environment. Technology can effectively customise the ongoing guidance of each learner. It can transform the content learners engage with and effortlessly link learners to each other and the wider global community, irrespective of location. It can also continuously gather information about a learner, using this to customise the learning journey. This means that the traditional role of the teacher can change from having to control the highly complex combination of learning journeys for everyone in their classroom to that of a facilitator for individuals or smaller groups when they need specific assistance. Our traditional narrow focus on subjects must also be re-evaluated to ensure that learners can apply knowledge and skills across a broader set of modern encounters.

At Optimi, we keep challenging ourselves to develop the future of learning. We are building an ecosystem to support GuidED Learning, a term we use to describe the individualised learning journey of a child or adult to achieve a specific outcome. We believe that individualised learning can be solved at costs that are affordable to every person in the world. Our focus in changing learning should be to emulate the highly individualised and successful learning environment that was created by tutors or masters with individual learners or smaller groups throughout ancient history. A big challenge, but we are up for the task! 

For more information, visit www.optimi.co.za or send the company an e-mail at info@optimi.co.za.

On Thursday, 28 November, the North-West University (NWU) conferred an honorary doctorate on the renowned economist Prof Raymond Parsons.

The honorary doctorate was awarded in recognition of the exceptional contribution Prof Parsons has made to the country throughout his distinguished career as an organised business leader, academic, media personality, economic commentator and author. Among his many achievements is the groundbreaking work he has done on the development and refinement of the NWU Policy Uncertainty Index, the first of its kind in South Africa.

He has also made a significant contribution to thought leadership at the NWU Business School, helping to keep the school and the university at the centre of discussions and debates about South Africa’s economic and political choices and future.

“At the outset, I must convey my deepest thanks to the university council and management for the honour of receiving an honorary doctorate from the university today. I am extremely grateful and humbled to have joined the distinguished list of previous recipients of honorary degrees from this esteemed institution. But there are many others to whom I owe my thanks and gratitude,” said Prof Parsons, before adding:

“I see this prestigious award as recognition of the important role that economics and economists play in making South Africa a better place in which to live and work, especially given the country’s well-known and formidable challenges of unemployment, poverty and inequality. Often described as the ‘queen of social sciences’, economics tries to answer the fundamental question of how best to satisfy the unlimited wants and desires of society using limited available resources.”

Prof Babs Surujlal, executive dean of the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences said: “Renowned for his deep expertise, Prof Parsons is widely recognised as an authority on the South African economy and its implications for the business community. Professor Raymond Parsons has had a distinguished career as a leading South African economist, respected for his political independence. This impartiality has enabled him to engage critically with economic policies across various administrations, earning a reputation for balanced, objective analysis. His non-partisan approach has enriched public understanding and solidified his credibility over decades. By upholding rigorous analysis and open dialogue, Prof Parsons has achieved lasting influence as a trusted policy advisor and economic commentator, respected across sectors and political divides.”

Prof Parsons is currently a professor at the NWU Business School. He is also chairperson of the advisory board of the Business School. He studied economics at the universities of Cape Town, Oxford and Copenhagen before playing a leading role in organised business in South Africa for many years. Professor Parsons is a former director-general of the South African Chamber of Business (SACOB).

Until 2012, he was the deputy CEO of BUSA and subsequently a special policy adviser to that organisation until April 2014. He has also lectured at the Department of Economic and Management Sciences at the University of Pretoria. From 2000 to 2003, he was a visiting professor at the School of Economic and Business Sciences at the University of the Witwatersrand.

Professor Parsons was the overall business convenor at the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) until 2010. This is the major social dialogue institution in South Africa. He is a key contributor to public and academic debate on a broad spectrum of issues of critical importance to the political economy of South Africa. He is a recognised authority on the South African economy and its implications for the business community.

Professor Parsons was mainly responsible for the creation of South Africa’s first quarterly Policy Uncertainty Index, which was launched under the aegis of the NWU Business School in 2016.

He also holds an honorary doctorate from the Nelson Mandela University (NMU) and is an honorary professor there. He is a past president of the Economic Society of South Africa (ESSA). In 2017, ESSA conferred honorary life membership on him in recognition of his distinguished contribution to the economics profession in South Africa.

In 2004, former President Thabo Mbeki appointed Professor Parsons to the board of directors of the South African Reserve Bank, and he was reappointed in 2008. He was also a director of the South African Mint.

In August of 2024, Prof Parsons was appointed by the North West premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, to his new Economic and Investment Advisory Council to advise on economic development in North West.

He is the author/editor of eight books.

According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being. This indirectly affects day-to-day functioning in terms of how we think, feel and act.

The importance of mental health cannot be stressed enough – from childhood, through adolescence and into adulthood. Poor mental health does not necessarily mean that you will be diagnosed with a mental illness. However, it may be detrimental to your overall physical health.

Many families and cultures shun the idea of seeking professional help from psychologists, psychiatrists or therapists. This has had a significant impact on how these individuals grow up and experience life.

The important questions we must ask are:

• What is the quality of life of someone with mental health-related issues?
• How much are they affected when they do not deal with the issues using professional help?
• How do we even begin to recognise that we need professional help?

Young adults sometimes feel that their busy lives keep them from attending to their mental health. It becomes something they hardly think about, until one day they are fit and energetic and the next, they suffer a panic attack. Life has a curious way of reminding you to look inward and become more intentional about taking care of yourself.

What signs can we look for in children and young people that tell us their mental health needs special attention?

1. Anxiety or worry: your child might be preoccupied or overly anxious about managing their schoolwork.

2. Depression: challenges at school may lead to sadness, hopelessness, lethargy and other symptoms of depression.

3. Confused thinking or reduced ability to concentrate.

These are only a few of the signs to look for – read about mental health and educate yourself to recognise the signs.

As a society, we must step back and consider what is most important for the child. We must let go of the notion that the image or reputation of the family is important, or what our parents and great-grandparents did or didn’t do when it came to their mental health.

We live in the 21st century, with its unique and harsh realities and challenges – how often do we as parents or our children take the time to count the cost? Children today have endured a global pandemic – a first for all of us. They were affected by the stringent rules of lockdown, and we do not think about how they have managed to keep going and live their lives.

Some of us have family members who count among the unemployed youth, which, according to an article written by Ed Stoddard (Unemployment rate in South Africa hits record 35.3% in Q4 2021 2022), currently remains at a staggering 65.5%. We often overlook children and young adults who are facing a mental health crisis because we think they are either too young to be affected or that they are not at risk.

Mental health knows no age, colour or ethnicity. If your child’s cup is running on empty, do not wait until the eleventh hour to step in and assist, take charge now. 

“The more you read, the more you will know. The more you know, the more places you will go.”  – Dr Seuss

What type of reader is your child?

• Loves to read!
• Could take it or leave it.
• Actively dislikes reading.

Reading is an essential part of our lives, and we must help our children find an enduring love for the stories between the pages. Our goal at Arrow is to ignite a long-lasting love of reading and literature. But what if your child is not a reader? Don’t lose hope; there are many ways to approach the issue.

Why doesn’t my child like to read?

Before you can help your child, you must first understand why they resist reading in the first place.

Which scenario best describes your resistant reader?

‘Reading is too difficult’

Most people wouldn’t choose hard work as a hobby, and that’s true for your child too. If they struggle to read, they won’t enjoy it or find it interesting. If your child is struggling, try to determine the root of the problem. Do they have fluency issues or educational gaps in their phonics knowledge? Does your child struggle because they guess words and do not have the necessary vocabulary? Have you ruled out a learning difficulty? Whatever the cause, if your child feels that reading is too difficult or too much work, first address the areas that need support and provide the help they need with the assistance of their class teacher. As your child becomes better at reading and gains more confidence, they will enjoy it a lot more.

‘Reading is boring!’

Some learners find reading easy; they just do not like it. It can be that they haven’t found something they really want to read. Ask your child what they love and enjoy doing. Do they have a hobby or a special area of interest, such as dinosaurs, outer space, or nature? Encourage them to find books on topics that interest them and that they want to read. This will give them the boost they need to fall in love with reading.

Ten tips to turn your child into a bookworm

1. Make time for reading.

If your child has a jam-packed schedule and reading is sandwiched between sports and music practice, it may become an unwelcome chore. Make reading a relaxing and enjoyable time, free from pressure.

2. Set aside regular read-aloud time with your children.

Choose different high-quality, age-appropriate books about your child’s interests. Audiobooks are a fantastic option for reluctant readers. Don’t abandon read-aloud time when your children get older. No one is too old for a great read-aloud!

3. Make sure the reading material isn’t beyond your child’s abilities.

The interest may be there, but if the book is too difficult to read, your child’s motivation will fade.

4. Create a fun and comfortable reading corner.

A cosy reading corner in your home may be all the encouragement your child needs to settle down and spend time with a good book. Create a reading space with your child to make them feel part of the activity and proud of their special place.

5. Look at and encourage a variety of reading materials.

Children often gravitate towards the fiction shelves in the library or bookshop but encourage them to look a bit further. There are many other genres to consider: joke books, cookbooks, how-to books and biographies are all excellent non-fiction possibilities. Children’s magazines and graphic novels are effective in getting children to read – they won’t even notice they are doing it!

6. Try ‘buddy reading’ with your struggling reader.

‘Buddy reading’ or ‘paired reading’ will improve your child’s fluency and make them feel more comfortable about reading on their own. Find a book you want to read. You and your child take turns reading a sentence, paragraph or page. This type of reading has many benefits – the biggest being that it prevents discouragement.

7. Have your reluctant reader read easy picture books to younger siblings or family members.

This is excellent practise, builds confidence and doesn’t feel like work.

8. Let humour work its magic!

Select a humorous book at your child’s reading level and read the first chapter aloud. Then stop reading. If your child wants to find out what happens next, they must read it themselves! Laughter is the best medicine and combining humour with reading will encourage your child to read and they will realise that books can be funny and fun to read at the same time.

9. Show a love of reading.

Put down the smartphone, switch off the television and let your children see that you love to read. They will most likely develop a love for reading if they see you read books too.

10. Provide regular access to books.

Visit your public library or create a home library. Make books accessible to your child. When they want to read, make sure there are books available to them. Build a magical home library with the help of your little reader.

The late academic Charles W Eliot wrote: “Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counsellors, and the most patient of teachers.” (The Durable Satisfactions of Life)

Reading will mould the resilient and adaptable leaders we need to steer our country into the future. Especially if they enjoy it, too!

Let’s get reading!

Kofi Annan believed in the importance of youth leadership. “Young people,” he said, “should be at the forefront of global change and innovation.’

As teachers, parents, young people and adults, we have a unique opportunity and important responsibility to secure the future of our communities. We do this by empowering our children and young people. 

As they listen to everyone around them and watch what others do, their ideas and thoughts about the world are shaped by these experiences. This allows us to help them develop strong social-emotional intelligence, resilient and innovative minds, and a sense of pride that they are heard and acknowledged as the youth of our country.

Ageism is prevalent in communities worldwide. Being aware that this affects all of us is the first step in giving our youth a voice. The term ‘youth’, as defined by the South African National Youth Commission Act (1996), refers to people between the ages of 14 and 35. This age group makes up the majority of our population, which provides many opportunities if we make it our priority to empower our youth.

Social-emotional learning is the main pillar when we talk about empowering our children and young people. With the current rate of gender-based violence and violence against children in our country, community intervention is desperately needed. We must educate our children on issues of self-respect, respect for others, self-love, kindness to others and conflict resolution. Above all else, we must instil the courage to do what is right and make the right decisions, even when no one is watching.

We must include them in conversations where conflict is dealt with appropriately, and we must model what self-care looks like by practicing it ourselves. We have a responsibility to exemplify a life of purpose. A life in which we, as adults, set life goals and extend empathy to those around us by simply listening and understanding, where we use our life to achieve great things or care for others.

Schools and parents can empower children by knowing about and understanding their interests and strengths. Create opportunities with your children where they can freely explore the things that interest and excite them. This is where innovation is born, in the mastery of strength and the freedom to explore. What they love doing or learning about might not make sense to us, but have we so easily forgotten that we once built a spaceship out of a cardboard box? Giving them the chance to express their ideas or make decisions is fundamental to their future.

Too often, children and young people are dismissed and refused a platform to speak and express themselves. Many adults can relate to this dehumanising experience, and we must actively guard against doing this to our children. Encourage them to let you know how they feel about a situation. Allow children in your household to have a voice in family decisions. Hold them accountable when necessary and tell or show them why their actions or decisions were not appropriate. This builds critical thinking and teaches cause and effect. As for us adults, we must learn to take a deep breath and intentionally use a tricky moment as a teaching opportunity. We will see the results in young people who can think for themselves and act with empathy.

At Arrow, we do our part by living the Arrow values. We encourage debate and critical thinking by allowing our learners to participate in class discussions and engage in 21st-century learning.

We ask our families to listen to their children with empathy, make time to explore their interests, and remember that we are role models for the future of our country. 

Fraud and corruption affect the global community, particularly in South Africa. To combat fraud and corruption effectively, the IIA SA appreciates that professional bodies have an important role to play. Whistleblowing can be regarded as an essential tool to promote integrity and accountability and discourage fraud and corruption. Whistleblowing is important as it encourages institutions or organisations in promoting transparency, compliance, fair treatment and addresses the causes of corruption. Whistleblowers need to be encouraged to report instances of fraud and corruption and need to be protected from victimisation, intimidation, prejudice or harm.

The Southern African Institute of Government Auditors (SAIGA), the Institute of Commercial Forensic Practitioners (ICFP) and the Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa (IIA SA) are jointly hosting a free dialogue session on Friday, 22 November 2024. The theme for this inaugural event is: “Protecting the Whistleblowers”. This event will allow for dialogue to establish a framework that organisations in both the private and public sectors can use to protect whistleblowers.

“SAIGA recognises the importance of collaborating with the IIA SA and ICFP in the fight against fraud and corruption. This partnership enhances knowledge sharing, brings together different skills and proposes solutions to tough challenges,” said SAIGA CEO Russel Morena. “By working together, we can build a stronger network to effectively tackle these problems. members attending this event will gain valuable insights, learn best practices, connect with fellow professionals and industry leaders. Participating in these discussions not only helps individuals improve their skills but also supports a collective effort to promote integrity and transparency in the profession, ultimately boosting the credibility of the accounting and auditing fields.”

Chris de Beer, CEO of the ICFP, stated: “Collaboration between the ICFP, IIA SA and SAIGA is crucial in combating financial crimes. Each organisation brings unique strengths and expertise to the table. The ICFP’s focus on forensic investigations complements IIA SA’s internal auditing capabilities and SAIGA’s public sector auditing expertise. This synergy enhances the ability to detect, investigate and prevent fraud and corruption across various sectors, fostering a culture of accountability and transparency.

CEO of the IIA SA, Arlene-Lynn Volmink, stated: “We are proud to partner with like-minded organisations in positively influencing the ethical climate in our country, which is also one of the priorities of the new Government of National Unity (GNU). In South Africa, professional bodies can collaborate by leveraging their unique strengths, resources and expertise. Through these joint efforts, we can make significant strides in combating fraud and corruption while promoting transparency, integrity and accountability across the various sectors.”

SAIGA is a non-profit professional body that certifies and develops finance and auditing professionals in the public sector. It represents a unique group of professionals known as Registered Government Auditors (RGA) within the public sector and academia. As the exclusive provider of the RGA designation, SAIGA offers what is regarded as the highest professional qualification in public sector auditing.

The Institute of Commercial Forensic Practitioners (ICFP) is a self-regulatory body mandated by its members to cohere, co-ordinate and regulate the commercial forensic profession in South Africa. Recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), the ICFP ensures adherence to high standards and professionalism within the commercial forensic industry.

In its 60 years of operation, the Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa (IIA SA) is a SAQA-recognised professional body and not-for-profit member-based organisation. It is part of a global IIA network with more than 245 000 members. The IIA is the owner of Global Internal Audit Standards and trusted leader of the global internal audit profession through its certification, education, research and technical guidance programmes offered throughout the world.

Contact IIA South Africa:

E-mail: member.info@iiasa.org.za

Website: www.iiasa.org.za/

Phone: (+27) 11 450 1040

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All parents want the best for their children, and a fundamental part is giving them a solid educational foundation. A good education equips children with knowledge and nurtures their skills, confidence and character. But how does quality education give your child an advantage?

The concept of ‘education’ can be defined in many ways. It is not only about learning new things; education also provides intellectual, moral and social instruction. Research shows that early childhood education includes many areas of development, such as social, emotional and cognitive skills, as children prepare for primary school and beyond.

At Arrow Academy, we believe it is never too early to cultivate a spirit of independence, and our early childhood phase includes Grades RRR to R, where learners explore and learn through play. This progressive approach to learning makes Arrow the leader in a new era in education and a 21st century solution for modern families.

No two children are the same, and each child’s learning experience should be unique. Arrow Academy’s curriculum focuses on a child’s complete development and unlocking their true potential, as we gently guide them on their journey to life in society. Learning these skills earlier in their development shapes the adults they become.

Giving your children the best education possible will further help them to develop various vital skills and behaviours to find their place in the world in a meaningful way.

Cognitive development

Quality education stimulates a child’s cognitive development. It introduces them to different subjects, encourages critical thinking and promotes problem-solving skills. Children who learn to analyse and interpret information are better prepared to negotiate life’s complexities.

Social skills

During learning, children interact with peers from different backgrounds and social frameworks. This socialisation fosters important skills such as teamwork, empathy and effective communication, which are essential for building relationships and succeeding in a social context.

Confidence and independence

When children receive a good education, they gain confidence in their abilities. They learn to trust themselves, set goals and work towards achieving them. This sense of independence and self-assurance empowers them to be resilient when facing life’s challenges.

Preparing for the future

An exceptional education keeps pace with changes and advancements. Learners are always aware of any new developments in technology, science and culture. This prepares them for the job market and helps them adapt to changing circumstances in the ever-evolving world.

Moral and ethical values

Education is not only about academics; it also conveys moral and ethical values. Arrow Academy has four core values that teachers and learners live by: me, us, school and the world. These values are about the importance of honesty, respect and integrity. They have shaped our learners’ characters and guided them to make responsible decisions long after they leave the school.

Improved opportunities

There is a world of opportunities out there. By giving your child a good education, you hand them the key to opening doors in the future. It’s never too early to pave the way and prepare your child’s educational prospects. It gives them an advantage and allows them to access decent higher education, scholarships and specialised training. With a proper education, your child can pursue their passions and explore various career paths.

Critical thinking

Perhaps one of the most vital and practical skills, critical thinking teaches learners to make connections and question the world around them. It encourages children to analyse and evaluate information objectively, enabling them to make informed decisions and solve complex problems.

Lifelong learning

When children are immersed in a stimulating and engaging learning environment, they are likelier to become lifelong learners. Their curiosity and desire for knowledge can lead to personal and professional growth.

As a parent, there is no greater gift than investing in your child’s education. You will set them on a path to a brighter and more fulfilling future.

Arrow Academy can help you get a strong head start in your child’s educational development. We teach learners how to learn in ways that feel natural for their developing minds and are fun, exciting, and engaging. We offer a comprehensive educational experience for learners and teachers from Grades RRR–R to Grade 7.

If you live in Centurion or the surrounding areas and want to give your child the best start in life, then register online at https:www.arrowacademy.co.za or contact us at 012 663 3482 for more information. There are only limited spaces available.