Celebrationofheritagethrough sportandtraditionalgames
ZAVELA MAKWABE
AGE-old traditional games brought colour, culture, and community spirit to life at the Provincial Indigenous Games 2025 hosted by the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture at Gompo Stadium in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality on 25th and 26th September 2025
From Dibeke, ugqaphu, upuca, ncuva, Kho Kho, and many others, indigenous games serve to advance, preserve and promote diverse cultural heritages across the country
The MEC for the Department, Sibulele Ngongo, said, “The revival of indigenous games in South Africa evolved as a response to the national call to embrace African Renaissance
“This revival is intended to popularise
those cultural activities that have a particular appeal to vast sectors of South African society, particularly the traditional rural people ”
She said that because sport and recreation activities are predominantly practised in urban areas and are largely Eurocentric, the revival of indigenous games is essential to get more South Africans more active, more of the time
During the event, the department also handed over sports equipment and attire worth almost R11,000,000 (eleven million rands) to 120 sports clubs, 240 schools, and 80 community recreation clubs from across the eight districts
Ngongo said this initiative ensures that, beyond celebrating our heritage through sport, they are also investing in our communities and empowering young athletes with the tools they need to grow and excel
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, which rests on the learners' shoulders
Songca expressed her concern about the challenges facing today's youth, stating that societal changes have made it easier for them to be led astray According to her, "the devil is ready to swallow the youth," and for this reason, efforts must be made to rescue them
"We are here from various institutions because we care about your well-being and want to ensure the survival and prosperity of our country This is a crucial time as we approach the end of the year, with final exams just around the corner," she stated She encouraged learners, particularly those in Grade 12, who had recently completed their trial examinations, to focus on improving their performance in their final exams
"You can achieve better results and move beyond the current pass rate of 83% For this to happen, you need to come to school every day, arrive on time, and stop relying on second-hand information about what was taught
"When you are in class, pay attention to your teachers and follow the instructions carefully Often, learners fail simply because they do not understand the instructions "
Songca reminded learners that this is a critical period, especially for Grade 12 students, and although only a few hours remain for preparation, positive changes can still be made
She offered study tips and advised learners to avoid unnecessary distractions, emphasising that financial independence and personal responsibility come only after one completes their education
"Close your ears to negativity We are telling you now – you are beautiful You do not need external validation that could lead to victimisation "
She also addressed teachers, urging them to act as parental figures for the learners
"Do not victimise the learners, even if they show inappropriate behaviour towards you as teachers Your time for personal pursuits will come, but right now, focus on shaping these learners' futures through education "
Addressing challenges at Qokolweni Senior Secondary School
The principal of Qokolweni Senior Secondary School, Lungiswa Mani, explained that the school had invited various stakeholders to address the challenges faced by their learners
"A major issue we are facing is fighting among learners These fights often start over minor issues, but upon investigation, we find deeper causes, such as tensions between those who have been to initiation schools and those who have not
"There is also a significant problem of absenteeism, often due to socio-economic challenges, as some learners live with grandparents or come from child-headed households
"Teenage pregnancy is another pressing issue, particularly affecting learners in lower grades That's why we invited the Department of Health to educate them on making informed choices," Mani explained
Speaking about the upcoming final exams, Mani revealed that the school is targeting a 90% pass rate this year They have put several programmes and initiatives in place to reach this goal
Songca confirmed the implementation of Saturday classes focusing on content-heavy subjects like Accounting She also highlighted the JENN Programme, which has been instrumental in assisting students
MEC Sibulele Ngongo pictured handing over some of the sports equipment donated by her department to 120 sports clubs, 240 schools and 80 community recreation clubs across the province PHOTO: SUPPLIED
BABALWA NDLANYA
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
Agri5ExpobacktohelpECfarmerskeepabreastoftechnology
ZAVELA MAKWABE
THE annual AGRI 5 expo made its return to the Buffalo City Metro bigger and better for its twelfth edition on 25th and 26th September 2025, drawing thousands of farmers from across the province to East London’s Buffalo Club for two days of networking, exhibitions, informative workshops and dialogues aimed at facilitating access to markets for Eastern Cape farmers on a national and international scale
Local farmers were exposed to current forms and methods of farming to ensure farmers stay relevant and are able to do more with less Managing director of Atone Works and event coordinator of the expo, Tsholofelo Mokobe, said their vision is to convert emerging farmers to commercial farmers “We were delighted to share technology that can assist emerging farmers We demonstrated and flew a couple of drone sprayers, and a tiller which can assist farmers to till up to 20 hectares
Chinesedelegationvisitsthemetro
ZAVELA MAKWABE
THE Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality hosted a high-profile political delegation from Zhejiang Province in China for the 25th anniversary of the partnership between the two provinces. Buffalo City’s sister city, the City of Jinhua, also accompanied the provincial delegation from 21st to 24th September 2025.
Mlungisi Mvoko, the Acting Premier of the Eastern Cape, who led the Eastern Cape government as they welcomed the delegation from Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China, said this visit reaffirms a shared commitment to strengthening economic, cultural, and developmental ties, whilst unlocking opportunities that will benefit both provinces and their citizens.
“This visit is not only about honouring our shared history but also about charting bold new frontiers of cooperation—unlocking opportunities for SMMEs, empowering youth, and advancing sustainable
development for both regions.”
A signing ceremony between the Eastern Cape and Zhejiang provinces of the People’s Republic of China, and between Buffalo City Metro and the City of Jinhua, was hosted at the Guild Theatre, where a celebration of 25 years of sister-province relations between the Eastern Cape Province in the Republic of South Africa and Zhejiang Province in the People’s Republic of China was held.
“The signing ceremony is not just about renewal. It is also about a recommitment to reviving, revitalising, deepening and strengthening our bilateral relations to meet today’s challenges as well as tomorrow’s opportunities,” said the Acting Premier
He said the partnership they envision does not only benefit their governments, but is felt by ordinary people in the jobs they must help create, skills they must foster, opportunities that must be unlocked, and cultural ties that are yet to be forged, strengthened, and sustained
OverR1.3mseizedinillegal money-lendinginvestigation
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.
“You could see the interest in the live demonstrations and in the questions they asked We are hopeful that the message was heard and we cannot wait to come back again and listen to their success stories from implementing what they learned from the event ”
The MEC for the Department of Agriculture, Kontsiwe, speaking about the importance of such an event, said, “Expos are critical to highlight the latest technologies, equipment, and practices in agriculture, helping farmers and industry professionals to stay current with advancements ”
Long-awaited Nandi : Musicalisahitwithartlovers
ZAVELA
MKWABE
A POWERFUL musical celebration of Queen Nandi, mother of the legendary Zulu King Shaka, enthralled audiences at the Guild Theatre in East London on 19th September 2025, marking a triumphant staging of the acclaimed production Nandi –The Musical
The production, featuring a talented cast of 33 performers, drew packed audiences who responded with enthusiastic support for the remarkable musical theatre piece presented in association with the University of Fort Hare
Director Edmund Mhlongo expressed his gratitude following the successful performance, saying: “I would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the incredible people of East London for coming out in numbers and showing such amazing support for the show ”
The musical tells the powerful story of Queen Nandi, celebrating the strength, conviction, triumphs, and tribulations of the woman who raised one of the greatest leaders of the Zulu people Mhlongo described the production as “a testament to hard work, patience and determination ”
Speaking about his inspiration for the work, Mhlongo revealed that limited historical documentation about Queen Nandi motivated his creative journey
“Little has been written about Nandi, and that inspired me to undertake a journey of discovery about this remarkable woman who gave birth to the warrior Shaka,” he explained
“Her story is universal It is the story of a single mother who, despite the challenges she faced, managed to raise her children – including a king ”
The evening was preceded by
a captivating conversation at the University of Fort Hare’s Miriam Makeba Centre for the Performing Arts, where Mhlongo discussed the making of the musical with Music Lecturer Mr Thembeka Vokwana
The pre-performance event concluded with a brief performance by the cast, offering audiences a preview of the full production Audience member Sisipho Zwelakhe praised the performance, saying: “The performers reel you in and take you along on the matriarch’s journey It was an amazing experience ” Mhlongo extended special thanks to the University of Fort Hare, Mzansi Golden Economy, and the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture for their partnership and support, noting that their contributions play a vital role in nurturing the arts and empowering creative industries
MEChandsovertoolstopromoteruraldevelopment
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 campaign 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
“Nandi - The Musical” brought Queen Nandi’s inspiring story to life at Guild Theatre, East London. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Mid-termexamsresultsarecriticalcheckpoint
Whether you’re celebrating or feeling disappointed about your
TurningDisappointmentintoMotivationIf YourResultsWeren’tWhatYouExpected
Don’t panic you still have time! If your mid-term results have left you worried about passing your final exams or meeting university requirements, take a deep breath Many successful students have used disappointing mid-term results as the motivation they needed to excel in their finals
Reframe your mindset: View your results as a wake-up call, not a verdict on your future
Acknowledge your disappointment, but don’t let it paralyse you
Remember: these results show you exactly where you need to focus your energy
ManagingStressandStayingMotivated
The pressure you’re feeling is normal, but it shouldn’t overwhelm you Here’s how to channel that energy positively:
v Set small, daily goals rather than focusing only on the final outcome
v Celebrate small improvements in your understanding and performance
v Connect with your support system teachers, family and friends who believe in you
AnalysingYourPerformanceStrategically
Step1:ConductaSubject-by-SubjectAnalysis
Create a simple table to evaluate each subject What to identify:
Strengths: Subjects where you performed well (keep doing what works!)
Priority areas: Subjects with low marks that need immediate attention
Specific topics: Within each subject which sections need the most work?
Step2:IdentifyPatternsinYourPerformance
• Were low marks due to poor time management during the exam?
• Did you struggle with understanding concepts or applying knowledge?
• Was your preparation incomplete or ineffective?
• Did exam anxiety affect your performance?
Understanding these patterns is the key to creating an effective improvement strategy
SettingRealisticandAchievableGoals:Use YourMid-TermResultsasYourBaseline
Your current marks aren’t your ceiling they’re your starting point Here’s how to set goals that will drive you forward
For each subject, determine:
Improvement targets: If you scored 60% in Mathematics,aim for 70%
University requirements: Research what marks you need for your chosen courses
Minimum pass requirements: Ensure you re on track to meet NSC requirements
ExampleGoal-SettingFramework:
Subject: English Home Language
Mid-termresult: 65%
Finalexamgoal: 75%
Action needed: Focus on essay structure and poetry analysis
Timeline: 2 hours weekly dedicated practice
CreatingYourStrategicStudyPlan PrioritiseSmart,NotJustHard
AllocateTimeBasedonNeedandImpact
• Spend 40% of your time on subjects where you performed poorly
• Dedicate 35% to maintaining your strengths
UseActiveLearningTechniquesInsteadofjustre-readingnotes:
• Summarise concepts in your own words
• Teach topics to a friend or family member
Solve past exam papers under timed conditions
• Create mind maps linking related concepts
MaketheMostofYourHolidays
• Study in focused blocks: 2-3 hours daily with breaks
• Balance work and rest: Ensure you also relax and recharge
Set weekly targets: Give yourself specific goals to achieve each week
BuildingYourSupportNetwork Don’tGoItAlone
AcademicSupport:
Teachers: Ask for clarification on difficult concepts and request additional practice materials
Study groups: Join or form groups with classmates who are committed to improvement
Tutors: Consider professional help for your most challenging subjects
Online resources: Use reputable educational platforms for extra practice
EmotionalSupport:
Family and friends: Share your goals and ask for encouragement
Counsellors: If stress becomes overwhelming seek professional guidance
Peer support: Connect with classmates facing similar challenges
Mastering Exam Techniques and Time Management
answers? Did you run out of time, or did you rush through sections?
Developexam-daystrategies:
v Read all questions before starting to answer
Ask yourself these crucial questions:
• Reserve25%forgeneralrevisionandexamtechnique practice
Review your mid-term papers carefully: Where did you lose marks unnecessarily? Did you misread questions or provide incomplete
v Allocate time per question based on mark allocation
v Structure essays with clear introductions, body paragraphs,and conclusions
v Show all calculations in mathematics and sciences
v Review answers if time permits
PracticeMakesPermanent
v Use past papers from the last 3-5 years
v Time yourself regularly to improve pacing
v Practiceexamconditionsbyremovingdistractions
v Develop question-spotting skills by identifying common themes
Physicalhealth:
Maintaining Mental and Physical Well-being
• Sleep 7-8 hours nightly for optimal brain function
• Exercise regularly to reduce stress and improve concentration
Eat nutritious meals to fuel your brain
• Stay hydrated throughout your study sessions
Mentalhealth:
• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation
Take regular breaks during study sessions (try the Pomodoro Technique)
• Maintain perspective - these exams are important but not everything
• Plan rewards for achieving your study goals 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
