The Value Of English As A Second Language

ESL is really a training course that is intended to teach English to individuals whose native language is not English or who happen to be not necessarily proficient in English

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Google to assist digitise Nelson Mandela archives

Google has recently presented a R8.6 million grant towards the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory that will assist to preserve and provide unparalleled digital accessibility to an endless number of archival documents, photographs as well as audio-visual materials concerning the life and times of Nelson Mandela.

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EU pledges R1.7bn for SA schooling

South Africa’s Department of Basic Education has received R1.7-billion from the European Union to help improve primary education in the country over the next three years.

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Top Ten Jobs for the Next Decade and Beyond

What career is right for you? If you are about to graduate from high school or a working adult; choosing a new career or college can be daunting and confusing. Selecting a career that matches your skills, passions and dreams can extremely stressful and challenging. A better understanding and knowledge of current and future job trends can assist to narrow your search.

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South Africa prioritises quality education

The South African government has unveiled an extensive transformation strategy for basic education, enacting to construct more public schools in disadvantaged regions in addition to drastically enhance the level of quality of teaching and learning.

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The Value Of English As A Second LanguageGoogle to assist digitise Nelson Mandela archivesEU pledges R1.7bn for SA schoolingTop Ten Jobs for the Next Decade and BeyondSouth Africa prioritises quality education

Feb
03

Which are the 10 Most Educated Countries in the World?

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February 3, 2012

 

During the past half century, college graduation rates with regard to developed countries have risen by approximately 200%, as outlined by Education at a Glance 2011, a report published by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The most recent report indicates that despite the fact that education has improved in general, it has certainly not improved uniformly, with a few countries benefiting from considerably higher rates of educational attainment as opposed to others.

The countries with the most highly educated individuals are, in addition some of the wealthiest in the world. The United States, Japan and Canada are contained in the list and also have among the largest GDPs. Norway and Australia, likewise featured, possess the second and sixth-highest GDPs per capita, respectively. Each and every one of these countries vigorously invest in education.

The reality is such that the countries that invest the most in education produce the most-educated people. Every one of the best-educated countries, with the exception of the UK, fall within the top 15 OECD countries for most significant spending on tertiary education – that is, college or college-equivalent – spending as a percentage of GDP. The U.S. spends the second most and Canada spends the fourth most.

 

Strangely enough, public expenditure on educational institutions relative to private spending by these countries is modest in comparison with other countries in the OECD. Even though the bulk of education continues to be funded with public money, eight of the countries on the list below depend the least on public funding as a percentage of total education spending.

The countries included below have had educated populations for an extended time. Despite the fact that they have continuously increased the percentages of their populations with post secondary educations, the increases are generally modest in comparison to developing countries. The US, Canada and Japan have in the past had tertiary educational attainment in excess of 30% since at least 1997. Poland, a recently developed country which is not included in list, experienced a tertiary educational rate of 10% in 1997 which has subsequently grown to 21% in 2009.

The 10 most educated countries in the world are:

1. Canada
2. Israel
3. Japan
4. United States
5. New Zealand
6. South Korea
7. Norway
8. United Kingdom
9. Australia
10. Finland

To view full report  – click here

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Feb
02

Haum of Yoga Valentines Day Special

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February 2, 2012

Workshops and events galore….Haum of Yoga is committed to bringing you experiences that pull you deeper into all styles of yoga, different approaches that might resonate with you a little stronger and move you to take the steps deeper into yours Self – toward liberation…moksha…personal freedom – yoga is a tool for dealing with suffering, an attitude for living life, a connection to a community to make the path easier.

Valentines Day SPECIAL CLASSES:

One could treat this day, just like any other…but then why would you do that and miss out on all the play that is available at Haum of Yoga:

Step 1: any Fourways or Bryanston class on February 14th – bring a friend or partner for FREE.

Step 2: Arrive at the correct time on Feb 14: as evening classes at Bryanston are reduced to give time for romantic dinners….Bryanston 4.30pm class is 1 hour. 6.30pm class will START AT 6pm and end at 7pm. Fourways classes will stay the same.

Step 3: Bryanston – Enjoy a class with BOTH Bianca and Kerry facilitating the evening classes. We will bring in fun funky poses to play in. In Fourways, enjoy Caroline’s fun lighthearted playasana class!

 

 

Please note that there will be schedule changes (dates, times, or teachers, or length of class as well as additions) from today, for all 3 studios!

For more information and bookings for our classes and events, please send us an email to info@haumofyoga.co.za

Thank you!

Kerry and the Haum of Yoga team

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Feb
01

Top Four Careers in Hospitality

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February 1, 2012

Hospitality Career does not necessarily only have to do with a single job. It happens to be for the most part an industry where you can consider an extensive number of specialties. The simple truth is that finding out about these various fields may very well be enjoyable. Having said that, an individual is incapable of performing everything within this industry, which explains why possessing a specialization is essential.

Considering all the alternatives in this particular career, you will discover the ones that top the list. In order to assist you, listed here are the most notable four careers in hospitality that you may possibly want to consider venturing into.

Hotel Staff

It is unquestionable that hotels are rampant in the present day. You are able to see high rise hotels being built virtually anywhere so long as there exists a site to see or destination to visit. This is true not merely for the South Africa, but various other countries as well. Regardless of whether it is a five-star hotel or perhaps a not so glamorous hotel, a hotel is a hotel and one thing’s for sure: they require individuals to be employed by them.

Job opportunities in this particular type of profession may possibly also fluctuate and they are generally plentiful at the same time. A person may be the front desk person who assigns rooms for guests or perhaps you could potentially end up being the lifeguard at the pool area who watches over the kid’s pool; the reality is that you will discover an enormous variety of hotel staff positions that one could give consideration to. Apart from the sheer numbers of positions, the volume of establishments you possibly can be employed by is likewise substantial. You will find small bed and breakfasts in addition to 5-star accommodations.

Precisely how high your compensation could possibly be is based on your job title. This factor would most likely in addition decide how you will probably be paid; whether by hour or on a yearly basis.

 

 

Event And Meeting Planner

This position consists of responsibilities of being in control of the features pertaining to vital business meetings or wedding receptions taking place in hotels. You essentially will be required to act out as an event planner or organizer to ensure that your client would have a smooth program flow for their event. At the same time, it is an important part of your responsibility to manage the accommodations and amenities of a facility on site. Consequently, you should have some knowledge regarding contract negotiations.

For this particular form of specialization, an individual would be required to possess a bachelor’s degree within a particular area, in addition to 2-4 years of experience in the field is required.

 

 

Executive Chef

This specific career would in most cases involve managing the flow and direction of a kitchen. You may very well be in charge of arranging menus and tables in hotels, cruise ships, along with other locations that tourists go to. In addition, you monitor inventory and attempt to reduce expenses. You select which supplies and food products are essential to purchase. After some time, you can expect to create and customize the menus making sure that there is an boost in profits and reduce financial losses. You happen to be at the same time the person who is actually responsible for overseeing the overall satisfaction of your customers.

An extensive knowledge of local food sanitation regulations and rules, in addition to federal state laws are crucial. In most cases, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in a field of specialty and a minimum of 7 years of experience.

 

 

Travel Coordinator

A travel coordinator stands out as the individual who takes control whenever companies require coordination regarding their travel plans. The most common responsibilities you could possibly encounter may very well be scheduling flights and hotel stays, in addition to assisting travelers to obtain their passports, visas, and various other required travel documents.

 

 

To view courses and training providers – click here

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Jan
31

The most common Job Interview Bloopers

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January 31, 2012

I am positive you have sat through a movie or TV “bloopers” and at the conclusion of the show; chuckled at the blunders the actors made at the time of the filming of the show. If one could come up with a film with bloopers that individuals make when it comes to interviews it could possibly seem to be amusing as well – however, not in the event that it takes place in real life – to you!

Exactly how does one steer clear of bloopers? To begin with you become mindful of what a number of the pitfalls of interviewing are and then simply prepare and rehearse to ensure that it will not likely happen to you. Listed below are 10 of those very pitfalls to be aware of.

Talking too much – revealing it all – regardless of whether it is not pertinent

Sharing with the interviewer a lot more than they need to be aware of may well be a serious mistake. For those who have not necessarily prepared in advance chances are you may have a tendency to ramble, quite often talking yourself right out of the job. Get prepared for the interview by looking at the job posting; matching your skills with the prerequisites of the position, and relating just that information.

Harmful non-verbal communication – slouching – fidgeting – insufficient eye contact

It comes down to expressing confidence – standing straight, making eye contact, and connecting with a decent, firm handshake. This initial impression can certainly be a superb beginning, or possibly a rapid conclusion to your interview.

 

Being over-familiar – your new best friend is Definitely not the interviewer

The interview is a professional meeting to talk business. This is simply not about making a new friend. The degree of familiarity ought to mimic the demeanor of the job interviewer. It is crucial to bring energy and enthusiasm to the interview, as well as ask questions, however, not to over-step your place as a candidate trying to find a job.

Making use of inappropriate language – you “guys” know very well what I mean

It is a given that you need to use professional language throughout the interview. Be conscious of any kind of inappropriate slang words or references to age, race, religion, politics, or sexual preferences – a majority of these subject areas could possibly get the door slammed right away.

Coming across as cocky – being overconfident – “king of the hill”

Attitude represents a key role in your interview success. You will find there’s a fine balance between confidence, professionalism, and modesty. Even if you are putting on a performance to show your capability, over-doing is as bad, or perhaps even worse than being too reserved.

Not asking questions – a missed opportunity you are going to live to regret

In the event that you are asked whether you have any queries, the vast majority of candidates answer, “No.” Incorrect answer! It is incredibly vital that you ask questions. It displays an interest in what goes on in the company. In addition, it provides you with the chance to determine whether this is actually the right place for you. The most effective questions result from paying attention to exactly what is asked all through the interview, and requesting more information.

 

Not listening – simply being concerned about what you are likely to say

From the start of the interview, your interviewer is providing you with information, either directly or indirectly. If you are not listening you happen to be missing out on a significant opportunity. Excellent communication skills comprise of listening and allowing the person understand you heard exactly what they said. Observe your interviewer and match that style and pace.

Not dressing up for the job or company – “over casual”

Present day casual dress codes in the workplace, does not provide you with approval to dress as “they” do at the time you are being interviewed. It is crucial to appear professional and well groomed, first and foremost. Regardless of whether you wear a suit or something that is less formal is dependent upon the company culture along with the position you are looking for. If at all possible, call and determine precisely what the company dress code is ahead of the interview.

Not addressing the question asked – “jumping in without thinking”

Whenever an interviewer calls for an “example of a time,” that you did something, he or she is looking for a sample of your past behavior. If you do not relate a “specific” example of this, you not only don’t answer the question, however, you miss out on a chance to establish what you can do and communicate to the interviewer regarding your skills.

 

Appearing desperate – “Please, please hire me!”

It’s a tough job market, and you simply have to have a job! However ,, in the event you interview with the “Please, please, hire me,” strategy you appear to be desperate and significantly less confident. Maintain the three “C’s” throughout the interview: Cool, Calm, and Confident! You’re confident you know that you can do the job, – now, ensure that the interviewer is convinced you can, too.

Every person makes mistakes – it is precisely what makes us human. We are able to laugh at ourselves a substantial amount of the time whenever we end up getting tongue-tied or fail to remember someone’s name – even our spouse’s. However in the the interview you would like to be as well prepared and professional as possible. In the event you make a mistake, consider it a human error and learn from the experience. Meanwhile do your research and be prepared.

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Jan
30

Corruption Watch – another step towards fighting corruption

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January 30, 2012

Combating corruption acquired some serious artillery with the roll-out of Corruption Watch, an independent civil society institute established make it possible for South Africans to report and confront corrupt activity in both the public and private sectors.

The unveiling, held at the Women’s Gaol museum at Constitution Hill in Johannesburg, was attended by a number of government, civil society and business leaders, most notably Jay Naidoo, Mark Haywood, Mary Metcalfe, Njongonkulu Ndungane and public protector Thuli Madonsela, in addition to a significant contingent of news media.

Corruption Watch’s function consists of a newly launched website along with a SMS hotline to obtain reports of corruption, along with a pledge which individuals can sign online to indicate their rejection of corruption.

 

 

The internet site is going to be a library of stories coming from the South African public, a safe and secure portal for evidence-based whistle blowing activity, in addition to a resource for information regarding corrupt activities throughout South Africa.

As part of his keynote speech, Cosatu secretary-general Zwelinzima Vavi praised Corruption Watch as being a “critical resolution of Cosatu and civil society” as well as a “dream come true to empower our people”.

We will never be successful in our mission to overcome this fast advancing enemy except in cases where we can effectively mobilise and empower ordinary people, strengthen and build a people-centred developmental state, brought about by honest men and women, and construct independent state institutions that fight against corruption on a daily basis and transform the judiciary and media, he was quoted saying.

The general public can inform Corruption Watch about their experiences and sign the pledge online.

To SMS, send the text “BRIBE” to report corruption or, to sign the pledge, type “PLEDGE” including your first and last names to the number 45142 (the SMS costs R1).

Individuals are also able to discuss it on Facebook and Twitter (@corruption_sa).

Eliminate abuse of power and position

Corruption Watch director David Lewis stated that by gathering, interpreting and acting on information compiled from the public, the media and other sources, the organisation would eventually be in a position uncover the corrupt misuse of public money.

“We have established this organisation make it possible for citizens to report and confront public and private sector individuals abusing their power and position.”

The information gathered by the organisation is going to be utilized to reveal hotspots of corrupt activity throughout the country at municipal, provincial and national level. Where corruption is rife, Corruption Watch is going to seek out partnerships with powerful organs of civil society to effect change.

“We would like to guide the national conversation with regards to corruption from resignation to action,” said Lewis.

The website would be the principal interface between the public and Corruption Watch, however the organisation could also be contacted via SMS, Twitter and Facebook.

 

Cosatu secretary-general Zwelinzima Vavi

By way of social media, individuals can easily talk about their stories pertaining to all types of corruption, including but not exclusive to bribery, kickbacks and graft; have an impact on peddling and patronage; along with corruption in the work place where they’ve observed or happen to be victims of favouritism, nepotism, ghost workers and illegitimate absenteeism. Individuals will be able to complain of cases of bid-rigging, price-fixing, arbitrage and profiteering, cartels and collusion and tender and procurement irregularities.

The private information of anyone reporting an incident is going to be kept confidential, however the information collected is going to be aggregated, making it possible for Corruption Watch to analyse the data, identify patterns and draw a “heat map” of when and where corruption is going on.

“Information from crowd-sourcing provides a clear understanding of what is occurring on the ground,” said Lewis. “While we {will not|probably won’t|probably will not} be in a position to investigate every single report, the consolidated knowledge of people coming to our site will furnish us with a powerful tool to develop alliances with other institutions and NGOs. Strengthening the scale and voice of civil society will assist South Africans to defeat corruption.”

As a result of some of the aggregated information – and from time to time a personal story signifying an endemic form of corruption – Corruption Watch will initiate research, commission reports and compile a sufficient amount of documentation to refer matters to the appropriate investigative or prosecutorial authority, as well as engage in policy-based advocacy work.

“Our first campaign,” said Lewis, “is requesting individuals to sign a pledge online, or via SMS, refusing to get involved in corruption and, in the event that they are civil servants, committing to treating public resources with respect.”

‘Nowhere to hide’

Justice minister Jeff Radebe likewise took to the podium, decrying corruption as a “cancer” in South African society.

“This cancer of corruption can only be defeated by the concerted initiatives of all South Africans … meaning that the roll-out of Corruption Watch is highly commended,” he stated.

 

Justice Minister Jeff Radebe and Cosatu’s Zwelinzima Vavi

The minister added the fact that the organisation would certainly assist to transform many South Africans from being passive recipients within a democracy into “important role-players who actively combat corruption”.

“We would at the same time like the media to continue in its determined efforts to expose corruption whenever it rears its ugly head.”

He added: “We are positive that Corruption Watch is going to be an independent unbiased voice and barometer displaying the strides we as a nation are making to fight corruption. Everyone must fully understand that there is nowhere to hide as far as corruption is concerned.”

United front against corruption

Public protector Thuli Madonsela pointed out that the initiative “couldn’t have come at a better time” and that the Public Protector team was honoured to be part of it.

“Many sectors of society can learn a good deal from this development. As a nation we require a united front against corruption and central to this is active citizenship.”

Accountability and transparency are, in addition central to the organisation, she added.

“I’m encouraged by Corruption Watch’s understanding that corruption is a societal problem – it’s not an isolated problem.”

Corruption is additionally rife in the regulatory environment, service delivery, along with the public and private sector, she pointed out.

 

 

“It is time that all of us as patriotic South Africans stand together to fight corruption with courage and resilience. We look forward to working with Corruption Watch in taking the process forward when it comes to awareness-raising, protecting and encouraging whistle-blowing and promoting transparency in the government’s legal framework.”

Madonsela called on all sectors of society to throw their weight behind the initiative, adding that actively fighting corruption is needed to alleviate poverty, boost service delivery, and promote safety and justice.

“Each of us carries a responsibility to fight corruption in the public and private sector to make certain that we establish a society where there is public accountability, integrity and responsiveness to all the people of the country.”

Taking action

Financed primarily by donations from charitable foundations, Corruption Watch has been established as a non-profit organisation by Cosatu’s office bearers, who have been receiving progressively more complaints with regards to corruption from its membership along with the general public.

Its board of directors is comprised of Bobby Godsell, Adila Hassim, David Lewis, Mary Metcalfe, Mavuso Msimang, Njongonkulu Ndungane, Kate O’Regan, Zwelinzima Vavi, with Vuyiseka Dubula in the chair.

 

Source: mediaclubsouthafrica.com

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