Opinion Pieces

By Nomonde Mnukwa

October provides an important opportunity to reflect on the interconnected responsibilities of government and society.

For millions of South Africans, the green barcoded identity book represents an important part of our history and heritage. For decades, this small paper booklet, with its laminated photograph, was the primary document used to prove who you were. This booklet, which became synonymous with our democracy, was proudly brandished by the millions who stood in line to vote during the first democratic election in 1994.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing cybercrime. The tools that can help us work smarter, communicate faster, and solve complex problems can also be exploited to deceive, manipulate, and defraud us on an unprecedented scale.

South Africa stands at an important crossroads. As we confront the realities of climate change, rising resource costs, unemployment and increasing pressure on municipal waste systems, we face a simple choice: continue with an outdated economic model that treats resources as disposable, or embrace a circular economy that transforms waste into opportunity.

Four professionals connect South African public-sector experience with global governance at the MGG Academy in Bonn, Germany, writes Dr Izimangaliso Malatjie.

Over the years, I have stood in front of many coastal interpretive signs. All but very few tell you what you may not do. Some tell you about the birds, the dunes and rock pools. None can be read by people with poor eyesight, and very few talk to people whose language is isiXhosa or isiZulu.

Did you know that some of South Africa's national parks are home of evidence human history stretching back thousands of years?

South Africa has reached an important milestone in the planting of trees under President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Presidential One Billion Trees Programme. Since the start of the 2026/27 financial year on 1 April 2026, more than seven million trees have been planted across the country as part of the Programme.

Across every colour of skin, every language spoken, and every corner of this land we call home, one truth unites us all: we bleed the same colour. It is one of the few truths that connects every South African, regardless of who we are or where we come from. This should encourage each of us, where possible, to consider one of the simplest yet most meaningful acts of service, which is donating blood.

Dreams have fascinated humanity for centuries. Across cultures, people have understood them not only as experiences of the sleeping mind, but also as sources of reflection, spiritual meaning, and traditional knowledge. In South Africa, indigenous knowledge systems have long included rich traditions and practices associated with dreams and their interpretation.

The 2026 Foundation Phase Catalogue for Grades 1–3 has moved decisively from approval to implementation.

South Africa is entering a new phase in its economic renewal. After years of grappling with structural constraints, the country is beginning to see the tangible results of reform. Energy reliability is improving, logistics performance is recovering, infrastructure investment is moving from plans to construction, and business confidence is strengthening.

Last year, during Public Service Month, I called on the public service to recommit itself to professionalism, integrity, and the Batho Pele principles of service excellence. I did so with a clear understanding that our people have grown impatient with empty promises. They want to see a state that works, responds to their needs and delivers services efficiently and with dignity.

To answer the call to serve is to take on one of life’s highest callings. Every September, Public Service Month gives us an opportunity to recognise the thousands of public servants who work every day to improve the lives of South Africans. It is also an opportunity to reflect on how we can continue strengthening the public service so that it remains responsive, accessible and capable of meeting the changing needs of the people it serves.

September marks the end of winter in South Africa, and as temperatures rise, our thoughts inevitably drift to a weekend getaway or year-end holiday plans. It is also Tourism Month, a period that invites us to celebrate the beauty, diversity and experiences that make our country a destination worth exploring.
Our country boasts some of the most iconic experiences and adventures, many of which are often only a stone’s throw away.

Literacy remains as relevant today as it has ever been.

Digital technology has transformed childhood. It has changed how young people learn, communicate, access information and participate in society. For the basic education sector, technology presents significant opportunities to expand access to learning and information, strengthen teaching and prepare learners for an increasingly digital world.

September is a significant month in South Africa, marked by commemorations that celebrate our identity, heritage, service and national development. This edition highlights Tourism Month, Heritage Month, Public Service Month and Deaf Awareness Month, each of which reminds us of the diversity, resilience and spirit of our nation.

South Africa is known as the Rainbow Nation because it is home to people from diverse cultures, races and religions. We pride ourselves for having united people with deep political differences to build an inclusive society that works for everyone, regardless of their background or race.

Training public servants to do their jobs effectively and serve the people efficiently is critical. Law now directs that some training programmes should be compulsory to achieve this goal, writes Dino Poonsamy.