Thousandsmiss firstdayofschool
ALAURENO’CONNOR-MAY LAUREN.OCONNOR-MAY@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
sparents proudly posted pictures on socialmedia of their children going to school for the firsttime thousandsofothers braved the elements from as early as 05:00 every day of the week school opened to join the long queues outsideEducation Department district offices to seek placement for their children.
At the Metro South Education District in Lentegeur on 14 January angry parents scoldedanEducation Department official when he announcedthe queue would be closed around 08:45.
The official told parents the office could accommodate only 300people on theday. Themore-than-100 parents who did not makethe cut-off were referred to thedepartment’ssatellite office afew kilometres away.
Parentscomplainedthatthey had been standing in thequeue for hours, and for many it was nottheir first time waiting in linefor this purpose.
FRUITLESSHOURSINTHESUN
KhumisaTunzi from Khayelitsha was among the number thatwere referred. She said the processwas unfair.
Tunzi was tryingtofindaplace for her Grade5 daughter closer to home because theschool she attends in Zonnebloem is toofar away.
The schools near her home were too full, shesaid.
“She leaveshome at 5o’clock and then getshome only at 6or7 o'clock at night,” shesaid of herdaughter, adding she had been tryingtoget her transferred since Decemberlastyearbut had had no feedback from thedepartment.
Chanté Joubert of Rocklands was also among the number who were referred. Shesaid she wastrying to find aplace for her brother andcousin in Grades 7 and 8. “We didn’t know about the online application.”
Joubert is the boys’ main caregiver. Their parentswere “roaming around” shesaid. She hadfirst applied to the department in August forthe boys.
“I’vehad no response since then.”
THOUSANDSSTILLNEEDSPACEATSCHOOLS
The groupwas among 7200 in the Western Cape who still needed placement when schools reopened on 14 January for the2026 academic year, according to the Good Party.
“That is 7200 young people starting theyear in limbo, anxiousabout their future,” Brett Herron,GOOD’smember of theWestern Cape Parliament, said, “not because of alack of effort or ability, but because thesystem hasfailed to provide enough space for themtocontinue their education.
“The Western Cape government is quick to branditself as the‘best-run’ province in thecountry. Buta government that leaves
“Since7Januarythisyear placementwasstillunderway for7540learners.”
-Millicent Merton
thousands of children without access to schooling at the start of the academic year cannot credibly claim success.
“This now raises the question: When will these children be placed in classrooms? How long will they have to delay their future for?”
LATEAPPLICATIONS
When TygerBurger posed these questions to the Western Cape Education Department spokesperson Millicent Merton said that since November the department had received more than 10 000 late applications.
“Since 7January thisyear placement was still underway for 7540 learners.” She added updated figures would be made available soon.
She said since 1November last year the WCED had received 10 666 late Grade R, 1and 8applications. Most of thesewere received in November and December,but by 7January the department had received 758 new “extremely late applications”.
“Late applications create considerable challenges for the WCED,”said Merton. “They disrupt planning for learner placement, resource allocation and staffing, and place additional strainonthe department to place learners immediately during aperiod when schools are closed for the holidays. This means discussions around placement can resume only once schools reopen, delaying the process further.”
CAPACITYBUILDING
She added that the department is also working on increasing capacity.
“Additional capacity is also been sought in new classrooms that have been built.” Merton added that the province was facing “increasing demand for places in our schools.
“Our Rapid School Build Programme continues to expand access to education in our province at an incredible rateinorder to meet thisdemand.
“Nine new schools that wereopened in aphased approach have been fully completed for the 2026 school year. These schools are located in Lwandle, Wallacedene, Blue Downs, Philippi, Tafelsig, Darling, Fisherhaven, and Plettenberg Bay.
“We are opening the first phases of another two new schools: Ilitha ParkHigh School in Khayelitsha and Brantwood High School in Kuils River. Additional brick-and-mortar classrooms have also been added to 12 existing schools and, in total, we have added 175 new classrooms to the system.”
Citywarnsresidents ofhousingscams
The City’s Human Settlements Directorate urges residents to remain vigilant against ongoing housing scams targeting vulnerable communities.
Residentsmust always pause and verify any communication by phoning the City’s Human Settlements Call Centre on 021 444 0333. Fraudsters often useemails, social media platforms,SMSs, and WhatsApp messages to deceive residents that they havebeenapprovedfor ahousing opportunity, or thattheycan secure an opportunityfor afee.
"We are aware of bogus emails and messages circulating that falsely claim to be from theCity’s Human Settlements Directorateorthe National Department of Human Settlements. The latest scam involvesemails sentfrom Gmailaccounts, whichisanimmediatered flag. The emailinforms residents that they qualify for Reconstruction andDevelopment Programme (RDP)housingopportunities
BOGUS HOUSINGEMAILSAND WHATSAPP SCAMS EXPOSED
in exchange for afee.
"Most fraudulent messages are poorly written, contain numerous spelling and grammatical errors and most importantly, request payment in exchange for housing opportunities. This is aclear indication of ascam,'' said the Mayco member for human settlements,Carl Pophaim.
Remember:
. All legitimate communication about City housing opportunities will come directly from City officials, through our formal and verifiable channels and, if in doubt, always phone the City’s Human Settlements Call Centreon021 444 0333.
. TheCitywill never request payment for housing opportunities.
. Report:Callthe Fraud Hotline at 080032 31 30 or emailfraud.hotline@capetown.gov.za withinformation
Police confiscate gun, suspect in court
The Ravensmead police is celebrating removinganother firearm from the streets of Ravensmead.
AccordingtoCapt Odwa Makupula, police spokesperson, the Ravensmead crime prevention unit officers were busy with visibility patrol duties in RavensmeadEastwhenanunknown community member approached the police and informedthem aboutamale suspect
who was in possession of afirearmand a magazine with live rounds.
"While officers were patrolling in Pinedene Street,they noticed aman fitting the exact description. They approached him and he dropped the firearm next to him on the ground. An officer picked up the firearm and arrested a22- year-old suspect," says Makupula.
Thesuspect already appeared in court.
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FRESH WHOLE AND HALF BABY BEEF
STEAK MINCE
Illegallobster tradebusted
The Ravensmead policeconfirmed several arrests were made recently forpossession of and dealing the endangered rock lobster.
Law Enforcement Marine Unitofficers spotted asuspicious-lookingvehicle at asupermarket parking lot on Friday 16 January. After thevehicle jumpeda red light, officers pounced and found a cooler box filled with 300 West CoastRock Lobstertails. The driver 50- old
Help hospital findhis
The provincial health department is requesting the help of the publicto helptracethe family members of an unidentified male patient being treated at Tygerberg Hospital.
The patient, estimated to be 40 years old, was found on theR300 highway and broughttothe hospitalbyanambulance.
. Anyone who mayrecognisehim or have any informationabout his familyisrequested to call theSister of Ward J7 on 021938 5011orthe social worker in charge on 021938 5684.
RAVENSMEAD POLICE SEIZED HUNDREDSOFENDANGERED LOBSTER TAILS
“The homeowner,a45-year-old from Kuils River, wasalso arrested forpossessing 40 lobster tails.
"WestCoast Rock Lobsters are critically dangered, with populations estimated
He is currently registered as Emergency TBH, JD.
Thedepartment says he was found unclothedand has visible bruise marks on his forehead. He was admitted on Sunday 14 December
At this stage no family members or acquaintanceshave been identified or come forward, they say.
Province’stopofficershonoured
KAILINDANIELS
KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
The Western Cape Police Excellence Awards took place on Saturday 17 January at the Century CityConference Centre, bringing together police officers, partners and stakeholders to recognise outstanding service during the 2024-'25 financial year.
Held under the theme “Elevating Standards, Celebrating Success”, the awards celebrate police officials, teams, partners and community structures who continue to demonstrate professionalism, consistency and commitment while working in demanding and often unpredictable environments.
RECOGNISINGCOMMITMENT
The awards were officially opened by the Provincial Police Commissioner, Lt Gen Thembisile Patekile, who reflected on the realities of policingoverthe past year. He acknowledged the pressures faced
by the officers, commended their dedicationto professional and accountable service, andpaid tributeto police officers who losttheir life inthe lineofduty during the 2024-'25 financial year.
Patekile emphasisedthat recognising steadyand reliable performance playsa critical role in building safer communities throughout the WesternCape
ActingNational Commissioner Lt Gen Tebello Mosikili commended police officers for their resilience and dedication, noting thathardworkand commitment acrossall levels of policing arerecognisedand valued.
Addressing the awards, shehighlighted the shared responsibilitybetween leadership and operational members in strengthening policing outcomes, stressingthe importance of discipline, consistency and sustained professionalism in daily operations. She also emphasisedthe need for adequately resourced frontline
policing to ensure officers are empoweredtoserve communities effectively.
PARTNERSHIPSANDOVERSIGHT
The keynoteaddress was deliveredbythe MEC for Police Oversight and Community Safety, Anroux Marais, who highlighted theimportance of effective oversight, strong partnerships and communityinvolvement in supporting policing outcomes. Shereiteratedthe province’s ongoing support forpolice initiatives in theprovince.
THOSEHONOURED
The followingofficerswere crowned national winners in theirrespective categories:
.Admin Employeeofthe year (levels 2to4): AP Hala (cleaner)
.Admin Employeeofthe year (levels 5to7): WO AMuller Admin Employeeofthe year
Ministerproposescomplete banondrivingafter drinking
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has called for acomplete prohibition on drivingafter consuming any amount of alcohol,asnew statistics reveal South Africa has achieved its lowest road fatalities in fiveyears.
During the official release of the Road Safety Report for the 2025/2026 festive season lastweek, Minister Creecy announced that South Africa recorded 11 418 fatalities from 9676 crashes in 2025 —representing a6.4% decreasein crashes and a6.2% reduction in fatalities compared to 2024.
"The 2025 crashes decreased by 6.4% when compared to 2024, andthe fatalities decreased by 6.2% in thesameperiod,"the Minister said,describing thefigures as "the lowest in five years".
SUPPORTFORPROPOSAL
Sarah Mabotsa, GOOD Councillorand MMC for Economic Development and Spatial Planning in Tshwane, welcomed Minister Creecy'scall, stating: "GOOD supports the call from the National Minister of Transport, the Honourable Barbara Creecy, to amend Section65ofthe National Road TrafficAct so that driving afterany drinkingofalcohol is totally prohibited."
Theproposalcomes as more than 8500 drivers testedpositivefor driving under the influence during the recent festive season period alone.
GLOBALSTATISTICS
Mabotsa highlighted concerning
international research publishedin2024 in the Journal of Safety Research, which indicates that one-third of road accidents worldwide are linked to driving after consuming alcohol.
"Alcoholisproven to slow down perceptionand response timesfor drivers, makingthe roads unsafe for drivers who drink, and unsafe for their passengers, other drivers, andpedestrians,"she said.
The proposedamendment would bring SouthAfrican road safety standards in line withcountries suchasAustralia, where drivingunder the influenceof alcohol is completely prohibited.
"If South Africa hadaclearer policy on not driving after consuming alcohol, this would improve both enforcement and public safety," Mabotsa explained.
SAFETYPARTNERS
MinisterCreecy used the opportunity to thankthose who contributed to the improved statistics, including traffic officers atall levels of government, the SouthAfrican PoliceServices, emergency services, provincial MECs, municipalMMCs fortransport, traditional authorities, andthe organised transport industries.
"I also want to thank civil society organisations for your hard work and dedication,whichhas in large measure contributed to thereductionfor the first timeinmany years andset us on the path to achieving our targetofhalvingroad deaths by 2030," theMinister said in a recent statement
(levels 8to12):Capt GJ Joubert
.Admin Group of the year: Provincial Flight Desk Team
.Visible Policing Employee of theyear (level 5to7): Const HV Jantjies (anti-gang unit)
.Visible Policing Employee of theyear (level 8to12): Col W Muller(Nyanga)
.Visible Policing Group of the year: Provincial Operational Coordination Centre (POCC) –combat team
.Detective Employee of the year (level5to7): WO JCC Roux
.Detective Employee of the year (level8to12):Col PP Ntsethe
.Detective Group of the year:PO OCI kidnappings
.Family, Children, Sexual Offences (FCS) Employee of the year (level 5to7): WO AMS van Zyl
.Family, Children, Sexual Offences (FCS) Employee of the year (level 8to12):Capt LChetty
.Family, Children, Sexual Offences (FCS) Group of the year: Kraaifontein FCS unit
.Woman of the year:WoWLee
(George)
.Man of the year:Const M Manyebesi (Delft)
.SportsWoman of the year:Sgt LV Isaacs (Atlantis)
.Sportsman of the year:Sgt C Botha (George)
.Person with Disability of the year:Chief Administration Clerk FBrown
.Sport Person with Disability of the year:WoLJvan Wyk
.Reservist of the year:Const NF Luiters
.Community Police Forum of the year:Khayelitsha CPF
.Catch of the year:Stillbay Police Station
.Station of the year (Capt): Prince Albert Police Station
.Station of the year (Lt Col): Kirstenhof Police Station
.Station of the year (Col): Grabouw Police Station
.Station of the year (Brig): Wineberg Police Station
.Senior Administration manager of the year:Brig Mawela
.Senior Operational Manager of the year:Brig Masakala
Safety tips forschool runs as newacademic year starts
With the2026 academic year now in full swing, parents have been reminded to exercise cautionwhen dropping off or pickinguptheir children from school.
DistrictGroup, alocal private security company, last weekshared some helpful safety tips in this regard, to help parents.
In apostonits social media page, it says the daily school run is routine, but that routine can bring risks. Busy streets, predictable routes, andrushed handovers createopportunities for mistakes and crime,theywrote.
Thegroup mentions, however,that small habits makea big difference.
Furthermore, parents are reminded that payingattentionmatters. “Patterns matter. Criminals andopportunists notice predictable routines.
Add distracted drivers, and crowded streets, and evenminor lapses can escalate,” they warn.
Theysharedsome simple safetyhabits whichparents and guardians can practise ensuringasaferschool run.
. Varyyourrouteand timing whenever
possible;
. Avoid using your phone while driving, stopping or waiting;
. Keep car doors locked when stationary;
. Stay alert to unfamiliar people or vehicles nearby;
. Use designated drop-off zones for better visibility and;
. Teach children not to leave with anyone who is not pre-approved.
Thecompany says safe handovers are also key.
Children should always know who is authorised to collect them, what to do if something feels wrong, and that it is okay to refuse and ask for help.
Most incidentsare prevented not by force, but by awareness and early action, your vigilance protects your child and everyone else’s, the company says.
Thecompany also encourages parents and guardians to report unusual, suspicious behaviour, unfamiliar vehicles, or any safetyconcerns near aschool.
. Call 021559 3024, 021559 4111 (emergencies only)oremailwatch@distictgroup.co.za
Man in hof oor vuurwapen
´n Man (33) verskynbinnekortindie Goodwood-landdroshofnadat diepolisie hom op Maandag (12Januarie) in diebesit van´nonwettige vuurwapenenammunisie aangekeer het Dieinhegtenisnemingisdeur lede vandie polisie se Operation Lockdown uitgevoer. Volgens kapt.Frederickvan Wyk, provinsiale polisiewoordvoerder,was hulledebesig om mis-
daadvoorkomingsdiens in Elsiesrivier uit te voer toe hulle inligting ontvang oor 'n verdagte watby'n woninginFairviewCourt,The Range, in Elsiesrivier in besit van'nvuurwapen was.
“Hulle het dadelik op die inligting wathulle ontvang het,gereageer en die verdagte by die adres aangekeer.Hyisbetrapinbesit van'n.38 Special-rewolwer en ammunisie,” sê VanWyk
Ruhan du Toit komtreeopWoensdag 28 en Donderdag29Januarie om 20:30 in Die Boer-teaterrestaurant op.Hierdie bekroonde sangeren liedjieskrywer vanPretoria met sy sjarmante,energiekeverhoogpersoonlikheid en indrukwekkende vieroktaafstem het oor die afgelope drie dekades diepspore in dieplaaslike en internasionalemusiekbedryf getrap.Kaartjies kosR250.Bespreek by www.dieboer.com of by 021 9791911.
Courtroomtwist unfoldsonstage
MilnertonPlayers present The Night of January16th,written by iconic writer andphilosopher AynRandand directed by Johann vander Merwe from 6to21February (weekends only).
Thestage becomesacourtroom with atwist
This gripping drama centres on therise anddestruction of abrilliant andruthless man, but with adifference: 12 patrons become jurors who vote guilty or not guilty each night,changing theending of every performance.The play embodies Rand's styleofsocial commentary,asking: "Who is trulyontrial —the accused, or the societythatjudges her?" It promisesto be anail-biting,thought-provoking and absorbingevening.
THECASE
Thetrial of KarenAndre (KendraMaduray)grips NewYork. Oncethe brilliant secretary—and mistress —ofpowerful
AUDIENCE BECOMES THE JURYINMILNERTONPLAYERS’ GRIPPING COURTROOM DRAMA
Swedish financier Bjorn Faulkner,she stands accused of his deathafter he fell 50 storeysfromthe penthousethey onceshared. Thecourtroom becomes thestage foramoral duel between two opposing worlds: thecoldrationalism of District AttorneyFlint (TumeloMogashoa) andthe passionate defianceofdefenceattorneyStevens (Gillian Vosloo), who insists that thetruthabout Faulkner's death is tied to thekindofman he was—ruthless, magnetic, andunbound by ordinaryrules. Witnesses deliver testimonyone by one: building staff,the policeinspector,a private investigator, thewidow andmore. Each bringsanother pieceofthe puzzle,until an unexpected
twist silences thecourtroom. While AynRandachievedfameasa novelist (TheFountainhead and Atlas Shrugged among her most famous works),her first public success came as aplaywright. TheNight of January16th, which opened on Broadway in 1935, introduced her to audiences as abold criticofsocial conformity. Thethemes explored remain as relevant today.
SHOWDETAILS
Eveningperformancesat19:30 on Friday 6, 13,20; Saturday 7, 14,and 21 February. Matinées at 14:30onSaturday14and 21 Februaryand Sunday8 February. Milnerton PlayhouseTheatre is at 81 PienaarRoad, Milnerton. Tickets cost R150. .Book at www.milnertonplayers. co.zaorcontact bookings@ milnertonplayers.comfor concessions,discounts andpensioner specials.
Sunday25January. Preparefor an evening of hypnotic Tuareg rhythms and masterful desert blues from the Niger-based guitar virtuoso.Gates open at 16:00,concerts start at 17:15. Tickets at Webtickets or at the KirstenboschTicket Office
.Summer Festival at the CityHall: Piazzollaand Pines featuring Lothar Hensel, one of the most sought after bandoneon soloists in the music world, is on Thursday 29 Januaryat19:30. Tickets from R190 to R450 at Webtickets.
.Pratibha Singh Baghel returns for one night onlyatArtscape on Saturday 31 Januaryat20:30,with Encore,an intimate, acoustic journeythrough ghazal, Bollywood, and contemporary classics,
perform at the KirstenboschSummer Sunset Concert on Sunday 22 February at 17:15. Tickets R255 (youth) or R360 at Webtickets.
.TheFirebird is at ArtscapefromThursday19toSunday22February. Afusionof puppetry anddance. Tickets from R160 at Webtickets.
.TheNutcracker presented by Cape Ballet Africaisatthe ArtscapeOpera House fromWednesday25FebruarytoSunday1 March. TicketsfromR290atWebtickets.
.Die dertigsteKKNKvind van28Maart tot4 AprilinOudtshoorn plaas. Besoek kknk.co.zavir dievolledige program. Bespreek kaartjiesbyWebticketsofdie KKNK se kantoor
Kieswetter by Die Boer
TimothyKieswetterbring sy komedie Mnr.SeksenMev.Kopseer virpaartjies op Sondag8Februarieom14:00en Maandag 9Februarieom20:30 na Die Boer-teaterrestaurantinDurbanville
"Die konsep is so oud soos dieberge Ons weet mosnou al dieman is altydlus en dievroualtyd geblus," sê Kieswetter
"Maardit is nou eersonlangs dat hulle uitdie slaapkamerbegin praat en dat ons agterkom dat daareintlik meeras'50 skadu'svan grys'is."
Kieswetter kyknadie stereotipiese gedrag wataan manlikeenvroulikeseks gekoppelword. "Moenie toelaatdat die samelewing jou in 'n stereotipieseboksplaas nie.Ons nooi jou uit om die Alpha-man, die koek, dietert, dieseuntjie-man en nog vele meerkarakters te ontmoetentesienhoe hulleontdoosword."
.Kaartjieskos R300.Geenkinders onder 18.Bespreekbywww.dieboer comofby021 9791911
Timothy Kieswetter
IMPORTANT NOTICE
FORM 3A -NOTICEOFAPPLICATIONSFOR LIQUOR LICENCES IN TERMSOFSECTION 37(1) OF THEWESTERN CAPE LIQUOR ACT,2008 –[REG. 10(1)]
Notice is hereby giventhatthe following applications forliquorlicenceshavebeenlodgedwiththe WesternCapeLiquorAuthority (the Authority)and with the designated liquorofficers at theindicated SouthAfrican PoliceService offices. Theapplications concernedmay,uptoand includingthe 28thday from thedate of publicationofthe application, upon requestand free of charge,beinspected by anyperson, at theofficesofthe Authority or thedesignatedliquorofficer listedhereunder. Copies of an applicationcan be obtained from theAuthority afterpayment of theprescribedfee. Objections andrepresentations must be lodged in writingwiththe Authorityand thedesignatedliquorofficerinaccordance with section39ofthe Act.
VORM 3A -KENNISGEWINGVAN AANSOEKE OM DRANKLISENSIES INGEVOLGEARTIKEL 37(1)
VANDIE WES-KAAPSE DRANKWET,2008 –[REG. 10(1)]
Hiermeewordkennisgegee datdie volgende aansoekeomdranklisensies ingedien is by dieWes-KaapseDrankowerheid (die Owerheid)en] by dieaangewese drankbeamptesbydie aangeduideSuid-Afrikaanse Polisiedienskantore.Die betrokke aansoekekan,tot en metdie 28ste dagvanaf diedatum vanpublikasievan dieaansoek,opversoek en gratis deur enigepersoon besigtig word by diekantore vandie Owerheid of dieaangewese drankbeampte hierondergelys.Afskrifte van’naansoek kanbydie Owerheid verkry word na betalingvan dievoorgeskrewe fooi.Besware en vertoë moet ooreenkomstigartikel 39 vandie Wetskriftelik by dieOwerheidendie aangewese drankbeampte ingedien word IFOMU3A- ISAZISOSOKUFAKWA KWESICELO SEPHEPHA MVUMENGOKWECANDELO37(1) LOMTHETHOWOTYWALAWENTSHONAKOLONIKA-2008– [UMGAQO10(1)]
Isazisosiyanikezelwa ukubaezi zicelo zilandelayozamaphephamvume otywalazifakiwekwabasemaGunyeniezoTywala eNtshona Koloni (abasemaGunyeni) nakumagosa ajongene nemiba engotywala kwii-ofisi ezixeliweyozeeNkonzozamaPolisaaseMzantsiAfrika. Iziceloekubhekiselelwa kuzo zingakwazi kwiintsuku ezingamashumiamabini anesibhozo (28) ukususelangomhla wokupapashwa kwesisicelo, xa eceliwekwaye simahla, ziye kuhlolwa nguyenawuphi umntuokwi-Ofisi esemaGunyeni okanye yegosa elijongene nemiba engotywala elixelwe apha ngezantsi. Iikopi zesicelo zingafumanekakwabasemaGunyeniemvakwentlawulo emiselweyo.UchasoneengxeloezixhasayoezibhaliweyozingafakwakwabasemaGunyeninakwigosa elijongene nemiba engotywala ngokwecandelo39loMthetho No.Fullnameofapplicant
Volle naam vanaansoeker Igamaelipheleleyo lomfaki-sicelo
Name underwhich business will be conducted
Naam waaronder besigheidbedryfsal word
Igamaishishini eza kushishina phantsi kwalo
Addressofthe proposed premises
Adresvan dievoorgenome perseel Idilesi yesakhiwo
Kind of licence appliedfor
Tipe lisensie waarom aansoek gedoen word Uhlobo lwephepha mvumeolucelayo
SouthAfrican Police Services designated liquorofficer office wherethe applicationhas been lodged
Suid-Afrikaanse Polisiedienskantoor vandie aangewese drankbeampte waar dieaansoek ingedien is i-Ofisi yeGosa elijongene nemiba engotywala yeeNkonzo zamaPolisaeMzantsiAfrikaapho isicelosifakwe khona
WATDIE HART VANVOL IS
’n Ouer se grootste vreesmoet nie
skoolvervoer wees nie
Veertien jong siele het Maandag onderweg skool toe gesterf toe die bussie waarin hulle was, met 'n vragmotor gebots het. In 'n land waar so baie kinders steeds die reg tot gehalte-onderrigontsêword, is 14 dooie kinders te veel. En weer, soos in baie kere tevore is die beweerde beskuldigde iemand wat veronderstel is om met kinders vertrou te kanword —die bestuurdervan die skoolvervoermotor Nog vars in ons geheue is die Buttskoptragedietoe 10 kinders grusaamdood is omdathul bestuurder ongeduldig geraak het en probeer het om die treinspoor oor te steek. Die res van die storie is te hartseer om hier te herhaal, so lees maar self op wat op sy onbesonne daad gevolg het.
Ongelukkig is baie ouersdeesdae uitgelewer aan skoolvervoer, wat net daarop uit is om die maksimum geld te maak, maar nie 'n duit vir die kinders omgee nie. Hulle prop soveel as moontlik kinders in dikwels onpadwaardige voertuie om die winsnaald te laat styg. Of hulle tel verskillendegroepe kinders op verskillende tye en plekke op, wat veroorsaak dathulle soos besetenes moet jaag om betyds by die skole te wees Nadat ek uit Oudtshoorn verhuis het, moes ek desperaat virmyeen seun 'n nuwe skool soek. Die ideaalsou wees dat hy by 'n skool naby aan die huis aanvaar word, sodat hy sommer kan stap. Onswou hê hy moet in Afrikaans klas kryenhet veral uitgereik na skole waar daarnog in sy moedertaal klas gegee word.Een van die nabygeleë skole hethom aanvaar, maar toehulle sê daar is reeds meer as 50 leerders in die Afrikaanseklas,het my moed my begewe. Ons moes ‘n ander plan maak.
Baieouersisaandieeuwelvan skoolvervoeruitgelewer
Uiteindelik is hy by die Laerskool De Kuilen aanvaar, wat 'n hele entjie van ons huis af was. Ons moes dus ‘nplanmaak dathy'nplekkie op 'n skoolbussiekry. Metons eerste besoek aan die eienaaris ons hand en tand belowe dathynet die beste belange van die leerders op syhart dra. Ditwas met 'n swaar hart wat ons soggens douvoordag die arme siel in die bussie moes laai, soms amper aandie slaap. En omdat die bussie sobaieleerders moes aflaai in die middae, het hy eers middae na 16:00weer tuisgekom.Soms later. Twee weke nadat die skoolbegin het, sit ek een Vrydagmiddag by die werkenmy selfoon lui. Dis 'n onbekende nommeren toe ek antwoord,sêdie vrouestem aan die ander kant: "Meneer, jou graad 1-seuntjie staan voor die skool en die hekke isreeds gesluit." Dadelik bel ek die eienaarvan die bussie
Dieverskoning? Hy was haastig, want hy moesna'nbegrafnis buitedie stad gaan. Hierdieis'ngesinskoerant en daarom kan ek nie die woorde wat ek gebruik het, herhaal nie, maar daardieeienaar het goed gehoor wathydalk niewou nie. Na nogeen of twee voorvalle het ek uiteindelik besluit, laat ek maarself die klong skool toe neem. Hy het verledeweek sy matriekuitslae gekry en het baiegoed geslaagengaan een van diedae verderin sy gekose veldstudeer. Ek dank die Here vir die voorreg wat ek konhêomskool toe te ry. Daar is egter ouerswat dit nie kan bekostig of motors besit nie, en is aan die euwel van skoolvervoer uitgelewer.Ek ken daai vrees dat jou kind dalk niehuis toe gaan kom nie, maar jy kanhom ook nietuis hou nie. Dus is diegebed van my hart dat elke ouer wat soggens hul kinders skool toe stuur, hul weer in die middae sal ontvang.
—BRENDEN RUITER
Matricschoose your path
Congratulations to allmatriculants on theirhardearned matric results. Standing at this crossroads is both excitingand daunting. As youconsideryour next step,here’sarealistic look at whatlies ahead. Thegood:wide-open doors: Aquality qualification unlocksmorethana career,it buildscritical thinking, skills forthe future, and lifelong connections. Today, respected universities and TVET ll ff bust dist le in allowi ut
teachers andgraduates who’vewalkedthis path. Budget honestlyand useyour institution’ssupport services, counselling, tutoring, and financialaid exist to help.You don’t have to face this alone.
Theugly: avoid the traps: Beware of unregistered “fly-by-night” colleges offeringcheap,quickqualifications. They take your money andleave youwith aworthless certificate. Always verify institution’ egistrati with theD tment of
ABURST OF COLOUR: TheGreen Point Fan Walk willonceagain come alivewith an explosion of colour and entertainment as the 16th editionofthe Cape Town Carnival returns on Saturday 21 March.Over 1500 performers will showcasetheir talent under thetheme“Follow Your HeART.”The theme wasunveiled last week at thelaunch of this year’s event,heldatNasdak in Cape Town on Thursday15 January.
Yield to right at circles
In answerto"Concerned motorist,Durbanville" regarding trafficcircles ("Mini trafficcircles need bettersignage and awareness", TygerBurger).I'm suretheyare the ones who doesn't knowhow circles operate. At alltrafficcircles, youyieldtotrafficon your right.Thereisnosuch thing as "first to arrive, first to go"atacircle.
DAVE TAYLOR,Brackenfell
Goodwood
pool
renovation
TheCityofCape Town is to be congratulated on its choice of acompetentcontractor to renovate the GoodwoodSwimmingPool. Even afterthe extensive work undertaken, the contractor completed the projectwithinthe specified timeframe.Moreover, sincethe pool wasoriginally built,ithas neverbeen in such apristine condition! With the extremelyhigh temperatures, people
excels,but
Civic Centre repairs stillpending
flocked to findrelief, with manyfromsurrounding areasbeginning to queue from 08:00. Of the numerous peopletowhomIspoke, therewas nothing but praise. Regrettably, the above success contrastedsharply with the varying, conflicting, andcontradictory notices andutterancesbythe City's officialsoverthe past year.The Maycomember forcommunityservices and health referred to merely"cosmetic repairs" being
undertaken, whichIcategorically refuted (TygerBurger, 5March).
Onecan only hope that the town hall (erroneously known as the Civic Centre) willfinallyreceivethe extensiverepairs it requires (due to the neglect of maintenance) andthatthesewillbecompleted this year.After all, it hasbeen closedfor four years! DBEELDERS,Vasco
PHOTO: KAYLYNNE BANTOM
LANSDOWNE YOUNGSTER SHINESININVESTECCHALLENGE
Lansdowne resident and Stormers player Imaad Khan beats theattentionofGeorgePearson,left; and GabrielHamer-WebofLeicester Tigers to scorehis team’sfifth tryofthe match to win 39-26during the Investec Champions Cupmatch played at theCapeTownStadiumonSaturday17January.
PHOTO:RASHIED ISAACS
MICapeTown collapse
AVRILFILLIES
The defending SA20 champions MI Cape Town were kickedout of the competition by Sunrisers Eastern Cape on Sunday 18 January in Gqeberha when thevisitorswere beaten by seven wickets.
With this win Sunrisersmovedtothe top of the log withPaarlRoyals second,but the Royals were in action onMonday 19 January in Paarlagainst theJoburgSuper Kings.
MI Cape Town scored 148/6 in their allotted 20 oversand Sunrisers replied with149/3. Matthew Breetzke, Quintonde Kockand Jordan Hermann secured the win forthe home side, while ChrisGreen took 3/29.
The gallant efforts by Reeza Hendricks (70*) and George Linde (30) to secure qualification for the play-offs were invain Ryan Rickeltonand Rassie vander Dussen failed again with thebat and could notbuild apartnership to send MI Cape Town into the play-offs.Rickelton was caught lbwbyMarco Jansen and Hendricks joined Van der Dussen at the crease.
THIS DEFEAT IS THE SIXTH OF THE TOURNAMENT FORMICAPE TOWN
Vander Dussenwas out with hisscore on 21 andHendricks could only watch fromthe other side as captain Nicholas Pooran lost his wicketfor just two runs.
The defeat, asixthofthe tournament, means MI Cape Town is bottom of the log.
The play-offs are set to be athrilling event, with the topfourteams from the league stage progressing to the knockout stage. Thefirst match is today (21 January) between the top two teams competing in Qualifier 1, while the third andfourth teams will faceeach other in the Eliminator game.The winner of Qualifier 1will advance to the final, while the loserwill facethe winnerofthe Eliminator in Qualifier 2. The winner of Qualifier 2will then progress to thefinal on Sunday 25 JanuaryatNewlands
The four teams in the play-offs are Sunrisers, Capitals,Royals andSuper Kings.
SA20 DEFENDING CHAMPIONS OUTOFTHE RUNNING
