MECdenouncesteacher misconductinschools
BABALWA NDLANYA
THE Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) MEC Fundile Gade condemns all actions of abuse, sexual harassment and victimisation of learners by teachers in some of the province’s high schools
This follows the surfacing on various media platforms of videos implicating teachers in sexual misconduct against learners
The department reiterates its position condemning such malicious, unethical, and unprofessional misconduct, and vows to take action to protect the constitutional rights of children to dignity, life and education
Consequently, the department has begun investigating some of these cases in collaboration with stakeholders and other departments such as the South African Police Services Gade urged communities and parents to unite against this terrible crime
“We call upon our school principals, educators and their unions, together with members of School Governing Bodies (SGBs) to do everything humanly possible to protect children and expose teachers who abuse and victimise learners Actions of this nature must be reported to the nearest office of the department and the police As the department, we will always support all our learners facing this ordeal,” said Gade
He also called upon the judiciary to prioritise all cases relating to learner abuse
“The speedy resolution of these cases is the best way of ensuring justice is served for the victim
“Whether internally or by the police; there is a need for the Department of Basic Education, Department of Safety, Department of Health and Department of Justice to close any potential legal loopholes within the ecosystem of governance for justice on matters of this nature moving forward because of the criminal component of it beyond the internal disciplinary process of the Department of Education Past experiences must serve as evidence on this question, and arrests must be made, not just expulsions from work ”
Project Manager for Holekane Women & Children Support Organisation, Nomvula Qola, said they are fighting to ensure that Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) is decreasing
She stated that they hate the tendency of teachers who use their power to abuse learners
“The Schools Act explains clearly what should be done if the teacher fails to act as a parent to a learner We will not applaud the Department of Education for standing
up and taking action only after learners have protested For instance, in St John’s College in Mthatha (where seven teachers were suspended on similar accusations), they decided to act when learners started protesting What about those schools where learners are also victims, but no one raises these issues?” she asked
Qola commented that this department does not do enough to empower learners about this problem
She added that the National Strategic Plan Document approved by the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, explains what needs to be done, but departments have not taken it seriously
She concluded that the day they take it seriously, conditions will improve
The Provincial Chief Executive Officer for the National Professional Teachers’ Organisation of South Africa (NAPTOSA), Loyiso Mbinda, said they are deeply concerned about the alleged increasing number of sexual misconduct cases by teachers against learners
“To address this issue, the organisation is working to educate members and non-members NAPTOSA emphasises the importance of professional ethics and conduct, ensuring members understand the consequences of misconduct and the need to treat learners with dignity and respect,” he said
Addressing root causes
The organisation acknowledges that the problem stems from a disconnect between legislation and implementation It highlights the need for proper reporting and accountability mechanisms promoting positive teacher-learner relationships NAPTOSA encourages its members and non-members to view learners as individuals deserving of care and support, rather than just students
This approach fosters a safe and nurturing learning environment
Preserving teacher dignity
By promoting professionalism and adherence to a code of conduct, NAPTOSA aims to uphold the dignity of the teaching profession while protecting learners from abuse
“As for the number of schools affected, we have not publicly disclosed specific figures However, the organisation continues to engage with stakeholders, including government officials, to address these issues and advocate for the well-being of both teachers and learners ”
Attempts to get a comment from the Secretary of the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU), Malibongwe Ntame, were unsuccessful
Suspect appears in court for R1.9 million tender fraud
PHINDILE Mtshabe (41) appeared before the Mthatha Specialised Commercial Crime Court on 26 September 2025, after being arrested in connection with fraud allegations in the amount of R1 9 million
According to a statement by the Hawks, the case dates from 2015, when the Lakhaza Construction Company was reportedly awarded a tender by the Ntabankulu Local Municipality for the construction of a landfill site The director of the company allegedly appointed Mtshabe as project manager, entrusting him with the responsibility of sourcing quotations for construction materials and coordinating supplier payments
“The reports established that Mtshabe misrepresented to the complainant that quotations had been obtained from Natal Scales Company and Ekagubhela Hyper Projects
Subsequently, the suspect apparently provided banking details claiming that they belonged to the said companies Payments totalling R1 9 million were purportedly made to the supplied Standard Bank and FNB accounts,” the state-
ment read
“A few days later, no deliveries were received Upon verification, the alleged suppliers confirmed that the invoices and quotations were fraudulent and had not originated from them A case docket was opened, and the matter was handed over to the Hawks for investigation
“The investigation revealed that the bank accounts used for the transactions were, in fact, registered in Mtshabe’s name, confirming his suspected direct involvement in the fraudulent scheme Further investigation linked the contact numbers on the fraudulent documents to an associate of Mtshabe, who was previously introduced to Lakhaza Construction by the accused ”
After years of evasion, Mtshabe was traced and arrested by the Hawks at Mthatha on 26 September 2025 He appeared before the Mthatha Specialised Commercial Crime Court on the same day, where he was granted bail of R2,000 The matter was postponed to 21 October 2025 for docket content
Learnersencouragedtofocusonstudies,avoiddistractions
BABALWA NDLANYA
THE Head of the Mthatha Central Circuit Management Centre in the OR Tambo Inland region from the Department of Education, Nomtha Songca, has advised learners of Qokolweni Senior Secondary School in Mthatha to avoid distractions that may jeopardise their future and to concentrate on their studies
She delivered this message at an imbizo held at the school last week, aimed at motivating learners to work towards a brighter future
The event was attended by various stakeholders, including officials from the Eastern Cape Liquor Board (ECLB), the Department of Education and the Department of Health
“We are here because of your future and the future of our country You are the leaders of tomorrow That is why we have put aside everything to be here today As you see, we are very old now, and we do not want this country to lack leaders when we are gone,” said Songca She acknowledged that the community had produced professionals in different fields but stressed the need for more
“Close your ears to negativity We are telling you now – you are beautiful You do not need external validation that could lead to victimisation ”
tent-heavy subjects like Accounting She also highlighted the JENN Programme, which has been instrumental in assisting students
Head of the Mthatha Central Circuit Management Centre in the OR Tambo Inland region from the Department of Education, Nomtha Songca, has advised learners of Qokolweni Senior Secondary School in Mthatha to avoid distractions that may jeopardise their future and to concentrate on their studies PHOTO: SUPPLIED
THE Hawks’ Priority Crime Specialised Investigation (PCSI), in collaboration with the Asset Forfeiture Unit of the National Prosecuting Authority, has successfully secured a forfeiture order valued at more than R1 3 million
Hawks spokesperson, Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana, confirmed that the Mthatha High Court granted the order on 19 September 2025
“On 25 January 2025, members of Mthatha Public Order Policing (POP) acted on intelligence regarding the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition at a homestead in the Nomadolo locality, Ngqeleni A search of the premises uncovered cash concealed in a blue plastic drum amounting to R1,395,209 30, along with several items believed to be linked to illicit lending practices,” said Mhlakuvana
Among the confiscated items were 57 SASSA and Easy Pay bank cards, 13 Smart Card Identity Documents, 22 Green barcoded identity documents,
32 bank cards from various financial institutions, and live rounds of ammunition
Mhlakuvana reported that Siphetho Ntaka (52) was inside the house at the time and was apprehended by police for operating an unregistered cash loan business and the unlawful possession of ammunition
“The suspect admitted to running an illegal money-lending scheme, using the social grant cards and identity documents of clients as collateral He also confirmed that the ammunition was his, despite not possessing a lawful firearm licence ”
Following a comprehensive investigation conducted by the Hawks’ Asset Forfeiture Investigation (AFI) Unit, the Mthatha High Court granted a forfeiture order on 19 September 2025 This effectively stripped Ntaka of unlawfully acquired assets valued at over R1 3 million Mhlakuvana added that Ntaka was convicted and sentenced to five years’ imprisonment, wholly suspended for five years
MEChandsovertoolsto promoteruraldevelopment
THE Eastern Cape MEC for the Department of Agriculture, Nonceba Kontsiwe, continued her efforts to provide traditional leaders with tools to cultivate the land, aiming to feed their communities and develop agricultural enterprises
Kontsiwe officially handed over a tractor and a pregnant heifer to Queen Nolutho Matanzima of the AbaThembu Base Rhode Kingdom in Qamata, under the Intsika Yethu Local Municipality
The tractor, valued at close to R1 million, includes a disc plough, planter and reaper
These tools are designed to enable agricultural production, boost productivity, and improve livelihoods in rural communities
Kontsiwe also handed over a tractor with implements to Queen Nonzuzo Sigcau at Nqadu Great Place, emphasising the critical role traditional leaders must play in driving agricultural development in rural areas
In addition, seamstresses were provided with industrial sewing machines to improve the quality of their garments, which could increase their earnings and enable them to meet client demands
“What is important about targeting the Kingdoms is that we want their assistance as a department to speak to and encourage their communities to participate in our programmes We believe this will strengthen our cam-
paign of getting more people to cultivate their land and fight poverty
“Reports from the Human Rights Commission reveal that people are living in poverty, with some even dying from malnutrition
We want to intervene by equipping people with the tools to grow food and raise livestock,” said Kontsiwe She also expressed her hope that women and youth would embrace the department’s campaign, as the department is committed to supporting them while urging communities to focus on self-development through agriculture
Queen Matanzima expressed her gratitude for the department's investment in her nation, pointing out the benefits of the industrial sewing machines and overlocker, which will aid in training young girls in sewing
“The skills of these young girls will improve significantly because they were using smaller machines before
“The larger, faster ones will make a big difference We are thankful to the department for this investment it will help us immensely,” she said
Matanzima further noted that they have 10 hectares of land intended for growing vegetables and potatoes
The newly acquired tractor will play a crucial role in production, and the department has also pledged to assist with fencing off their land
Contentcreatorlaunchesempowermentmovementforwomen
BABALWA NDLANYA
CONTENT creator, Mihlali Matokazi, originally from Mdantsane in East London, has confirmed the launch of The Synergy Circle, a movement where women come together to walk, practise yoga, have meaningful conversations, and empower one another
The movement was born from her journey of assisting people on social media with career and mental wellness questions It was officially launched in August 2025 in Cape Town, with its first event titled Move, Talk and Grow
“I saw how many women were navigating life’s pressures work, studies, motherhood, finances, and more without a safe space to recharge, learn and connect The goal was to create a circle where movement, conversation and growth come together,” Matokazi explained
As someone who relies on walking or running for mental clarity, Matokazi emphasised that The Synergy Circle had to begin with movement as a key element for mental wellness before progressing to meaningful conversations
“Our event brought together 120 young professionals, entrepreneurs and students But the seeds were planted long before, in the many conversations and acts of support I have shared online,” she said Although face-to-face gatherings do not happen every day, Matokazi said the work continues through their Instagram page (@thesynergycirclemoves), where women seek support via direct messages
“Sometimes it’s about preparing for an upcoming interview, where I personally help with practice Other times, the support required is beyond my expertise, and I connect them with professionals in our network who can provide guidance ”
At in-person events, the Circle creates intentional spaces where women move together, share meals, and learn from specialists These seasonal gatherings are designed to address real needs, such as their upcoming programme for final-year
students writing exams “We will empower them with exam preparation strategies, job-hunting tips, and career readiness skills,” Matokazi noted
She highlighted that the impact of the Circle extends beyond in-person meetings to persistent online support and meaningful connections
“I wanted to create a community where women could pause, breathe, and gather wisdom not just to strengthen their own lives but to uplift their families, friends, and workplaces The ripple effects are remarkable: a woman who manages her emotions at work or takes control of her finances can transform her family, workplace, and even her community,” she said
Matokazi shared an example of the Circle’s impact, where an attendee used lessons from an emotional intelligence session to resolve a workplace conflict calmly and effectively
She also discussed the unique challenges faced by women:
“Women juggle multiple responsibilities careers, households, children, and sometimes extended family Often, they’re expected to hold it all together without support The Synergy Circle acknowledges these realities and creates content that speaks directly to them ”
At the Circle’s gatherings, different women whether a young professional experiencing self-doubt at work, or a single mother balancing exams find practical tools and encouragement tailored to their circumstances
“This is not about excluding men; it’s about focusing on women so that their
unique challenges and strengths get the attention they deserve,” she said
Matokazi highlighted the common misconception of waiting for confidence or perfection
“You don’t have to have it all figured out to join our circle Come as you are, and you’ll leave with encouragement, practical resources, and connections that remind you that you’re not alone ”
Engagement on their social media platform is free, and they extend conversations through online meetings For in-person events, ticket costs vary based on sponsorship Their first event cost R850 due to limited sponsorship, but they are working to make future gatherings more affordable
“Some women attended free, thanks to sponsorships from Friends of the Synergy Circle For our upcoming final-year student programme, tickets will cost as little as R70, part of our effort to ensure accessibility,” she explained
The Synergy Circle is international, uniting women of various ages and backgrounds Participants include students in their 20s, young professionals, mothers balancing careers and family, and women in leadership roles who mentor others
Matokazi revealed plans to expand the initiative to include children: “Many mothers have expressed that they want their kids to be part of an environment where confidence and kindness are nurtured from a young age If children learn at an early stage what we’re only learning now as adults, we can set them up for a brighter future ”
Content creator, Mihlali Matokazi from Mdantsane in East London, opened a platform for women to support each other
Women from different areas attending the official launch of Synergy Circle in Cape Town.
PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
FilmmakerspotlightsKingMaqoma’slegacy
FRESH from securing third place in the Marche International des Programmes Africa
(MIP Africa) pitching sessions for his film Born to Silence at Fame Week Africa, held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, Sterkspruit filmmaker, Lukhanyo Manyangezi (26), is gearing up for the first screening of his latest film, King Maqoma
The film highlights the rich history of the Eastern Cape for audiences on the global stage this Heritage Month
The first screening of King Maqoma, which celebrates the legacy of the renowned Xhosa leader and military strategist, is scheduled for 11 October 2025
King Maqoma, a son of Ngqika, King of the Rharhabe people, was one of the greatest Xhosa military commanders
rica, Africa s leading business-to-business marketplace for film, television, digital content distribution, and co-production in Sub-Saharan Africa MIP Africa takes place at Fame Week Africa, a vital hub for African and global creative professionals
The event features content sessions, music showcases, film screenings, exhibitions, and abundant networking opportunities
“King Maqoma is more than just a film it’s a way to reclaim our local history and spotlight the rich heritage of our province on the global stage, much like the story of Shaka Zulu,” said Manyangezi
“When I discovered the legacy of King Maqoma, I realised this story had to be told by the people of the Eastern Cape for audiences around the world
was placed third overall,” he added Manyangezi, who previously produced the gripping drama, The Accused, which premiered on Amazon Prime in 2024, noted that Fame Week Africa allowed him to connect with actors, producers and TV broadcasters such as e tv, with whom he is exploring collaborations
ECDC’s investment in the creative economy
ECDC Arts and Crafts Coordinator, Athenkosi Baliso, highlighted the importance of the creative sector as a key contributor to the Eastern Cape’s economy and heritage
For the past 15 years, the Corporation has actively supported creative enterprises through market access initiatives and participation in prominent industry plat-
forms
These platforms include trade and consumer exhibitions such as Decorex Cape Town and Johannesburg, the National Arts Festival, Mandela Bay Arts Festival, Rand Eastern Show, Buffalo City Municipality Fashion Fair, All Fashion Sourcing, Fame Week Africa, Lithuba Lakho Visual Arts and Craft Competition and Exhibition, and the Johannesburg Art Fair
One of the beneficiaries of this support is Gqeberha’s multiaward-winning ceramist, Lookout Sibanda, whose striking ceramic creations are gaining international acclaim More than 100 of his pieces are currently on display at the Malibu Design Centre in California, USA
Sibanda’s works are also featured at the ECDC-managed Eastern Cape Craft Collection Shop in East London Baliso noted that
platforms like these have provided Sibanda with invaluable exposure for his business, connecting him with wider local and international audiences
“The ECDC’s support for the creative economy, which is a cultural and heritage expression, focuses on building sustainable creative enterprises and improving global competitiveness,” Baliso explained
“Our programmes include market access initiatives to boost sales, support for entry into local and international markets, and strengthening value chain relations
“For example, the Eastern Cape Craft Collection Shop in East London represents 97 creative enterprises from across the province, offering them a crucial opportunity to showcase and sell their work ”
Sport
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AmbassadorsFC,DadambaNetballteamtriumph
ANELE RAZIYA
AMBASSADORS FC from Gwadana village in Mbhashe were crowned champions of the Late Nosizwe Heritage Tournament, held at Qora Sports Ground on Heritage Day
For winning this annual event, Ambassadors FC received R1,600, a brand-new soccer kit, a trophy and gold medals This victory came after the Gwadana-based team defeated the Qora-based Shining Stars FC 3–0 in the final match, played on Wednesday afternoon
Before reaching the final, Ambassadors
FC defeated United FC from Thanga village 2–0 to progress to the last stage of the event Meanwhile, the home team, Shining Stars FC, overcame Brave Warriors FC from Dutywa 5–4 on penalties after a goalless draw during regulation time
Twelve teams from various villages in Mnquma and Mbhashe participated in the Nosizwe Heritage Tournament, which kicked off on 20 September Ultimately, Brave Warriors FC, United FC, Shining Stars FC and Ambassadors FC were the teams that advanced to the semi-finals
Speaking about the tournament, one of the organisers, Bongani “Skillo” Mlatha, expressed satisfaction with successfully
GquduYouthTournamentcelebrates
Butterworthfootballlegend
ANELE RAZIYA
BUTTERWORTH Former Stars and the Mnquma Local Football Association (Mnquma LFA) are working hard to prepare for the annual Gqudu Youth Development Tournament, scheduled to take place at the Coloured Sports Ground near Butterworth town on 11 October
The event aims to celebrate the legacy of Mzothando “Bhuti Gqudu” Makhala, a legend of the former National First Division (NFD) side, Blackburn Rovers FC It also seeks to contribute to the development of football in Mnquma and its surrounding areas
The tournament will feature two age groups, U13 and U15, consisting of 16 teams each This means a total of 32 clubs within the association will participate Matches will be played at the Coloured Sports Ground and Brewery Sports Ground on 11–12 October
One of the event organisers, Wanda Mtwa, stated that the Gqudu Youth Development Tournament is held annually to foster young players’ development and honour their hometown legend, Mzothando “Bhuti Gqudu” Makhala “Bhuti Gqudu played football at the highest level, representing
Blackburn Rovers and the Transkei squad He was a role model during our youth,” Mtwa explained
After retiring from professional football, Makhala began coaching the Blackburn Rovers U12 team, and eventually advanced to coaching the first team According to Mtwa, “The legend is a community builder who dedicated himself to keeping youngsters active on the field after school He helped develop players into professionals, such as Samkelo JamJam, Alfred Khunou, Nikelo Mangqalaza, Bulelani Mgqobhoka, Luxolo Matikinca, Ludwe Mangqalaza, and even myself ”
Beyond his football career, Bhuti Gqudu contributed as a match official and worked as a caretaker at Msobomvu Sports Grounds under the Mnquma Local Municipality
“Through Butterworth Former Stars, who played under the guidance of Bhuti Gqudu, we continue to honour his legacy This tournament not only celebrates his contributions but also hopes to inspire young players to become football professionals one day,” said Mtwa
The winners of the tournament are expected to walk away with grand prizes, including trophies, medals and other impressive awards
hosting the Nosizwe Heritage Tournament once again
Mlatha praised all the teams for showcasing good football during the event, entertaining large crowds of supporters who attended in numbers
He noted that, compared to previous editions, the tournament is growing every year However, Mlatha appealed to the municipality for support in levelling the soccer field, which is currently in poor condition for players
The tournament not only aims to promote sports development in Qora Village but also serves to celebrate the late Chief Nosizwe Phoswa, who played a significant role in sports development in the area
In netball, Dadamba Netball Team was crowned champions after defeating Ntsingeni Netball Team in the final match Dadamba Netball Team won a brand-new kit, a trophy, gold medals and R1,000 The runners-up, Ntsingeni Netball Team, received R800 and silver medals Similarly, the soccer runners-up, Shining Stars FC, took home R800, silver medals and a brandnew kit
In conclusion, Mlatha thanked all the teams for their participation and called on businesses to support their vision of developing sport in rural areas He said such efforts ensure that the youth stay away from crime and substance abuse
PSGAcademyreadytoshine atKingofGloryTournament
the senior team, the U17 team, and the Academy’s netball team.
PSG Academy FC founder, Zolani Bungu, said his team is ready to compete in the King of Glory Tournament.
This is the second time the PSG Academy U17 team will compete in this tournament. Last year, PSG were eliminated in the group stages of the King of Glory Tournament. Bungu stated that this year they will participate in the tournament with three teams:
"We are targeting the semi-finals or finals this year. All the preparations are going very well ahead of this tournament, and we even participated in a tournament last Wednesday. Our players are showing positive signs, and we have been preparing for this competition since January."
The tournament will take place on 4–5 October 2025 in East London.
ORTamboteamsdominateAVBOBtournament
HOSEYA JUBASE
OR Tambo District Municipality soccer and netball teams were both crowned champions of the AVBOB tournament for the second consecutive year
The OR Tambo DM soccer team defeated SAPS FC 2–1, while the OR Tambo netball team triumphed 13–12 against the Basic Education netball team
The AVBOB tournament organiser, Olwethu Gwazela, said this year’s third Annual Tournament was a great success
“We are grateful to host such a significant event, as we aim to make a lasting impression on our stakeholders The tournament is growing every year last year we had only eight teams, but this year we managed to attract 16 teams ”
The AVBOB in Mthatha is led by area manager Sifiso Chonco Gwazela added that the 2025 tournament demonstrated substantial growth, and
they hope for even more teams to participate next year
Both the soccer and netball champions received a trophy, gold medals, kits, and balls as prizes
Participating teams:
• OR Tambo District Municipality
• SANDF AVBOB
• Dr Malizo Mpehla Hospital
• Nyandeni Local Municipality
• Madwaleni Hospital
Zithulele Hospital
• Mzimvubu Local Municipality
• Mhlontlo Municipality
King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality
• Dr S Nuku Branch (SADTU)
• Basic Education
• Department of Health Nyandeni
• SAPS Central
• Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital
• NEHAWU
TraditionalhorseracingpromotesheritageinMthatha HOSEYA JUBASE
AS part of celebrating Heritage Month, the Ngalonkulu Association hosted a traditional horse race last Wednesday near Bedford Hospital in Mthatha
Attendees were dressed in traditional attire, and according to the organisers, the purpose of the horse race was to promote indigenous cultures and attract more young people
The event drew crowds from villages within the OR Tambo Region
The organiser, Phathiswa Mantantana Mendela, said the race aimed to highlight the talent and potential of rural jockeys
"Overall, the main purpose was to engage young people, as the jockeys in this event are young This was an opportunity to educate them about the importance of heritage and to encourage them to stay away from drugs "
Mantantana Mendela said this marked the first horse racing event under the Ngalonkulu Association She also emphasised the need for women's involvement in horse racing, a sport traditionally dominated by men Phathiswa Mantantana Mendela has been supporting jockeys around Mthatha for over seven years and now owns her own horse
Mzothando ‘Bhuti Gqudu’ Makhala, standing with former players he coached during the first edition of the Gqudu Development Tournament at Msobomvu Sports Ground. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
HOSEYA JUBASE