African data sovereignty and the challenge of Northern perspectives
A simple gesture of welcome to an African-American researcher reveals deep-seated institutional biases at PEW Research Centre, sparking a broader discussion about data sovereignty, cultural sensitivity, and the ongoing challenge of North-South relations in academic research
Standing up to American influence: South Africa's path to sovereignty
as US-South Africa relations face mounting pressure under Trump's executive orders, South African entrepreneurs like Eldrid Jordaan demonstrate how the nation can maintain its sovereignty while standing up to global tech giants.
Language performance disparities in South African education: a deep dive into Tshivenda success
An in-depth analysis of South African educational performance reveals surprising patterns when broken down by language groups, with Tshivenda speakers showing remarkable achievements. This controversial finding challenges traditional narratives and sparks important discussions about educational disparities in South Africa.
How colonial borders continue to shape African conflicts
In December 2006, a crucial African statistical development initiative nearly collapsed under the weight of post-war tensions between Angola and Rwanda. This is the untold story of how careful diplomacy and determination saved continental cooperation in the face of colonial legacy conflicts.
From Nesstar to ubuntu: reshaping Africa's digital future
As Statistics South Africa announces the end of Nesstar, a crucial data platform, Africa faces both challenges and opportunities in technological sovereignty.
Beyond Matric results: a hollow victory masking education crisis
Former UCT Vice-Chancellor Prof Mamokgethi Phakeng's critical analysis of South Africa's education system reveals a deepening crisis beyond matric results, highlighting racial disparities and systemic failures in post-school education.
Christmas data release points to massive policy and resource vacuum among our youth
In the National School Certificate 69% are guaranteed not such palatable news whereby just under 250 000 will go through with a decent pass.
Botswana's historic election: a shift from 58 years of BDP dominance
The Umbrella for Democratic Change toppled the long-standing Botswana Democratic Party, marking a new chapter in the nation's history.
Honouring the memory of Mandisi Titi: a reflection on struggle and society
Explore the enduring legacy of the liberation struggle in South Africa through the reflections of Justice Albie Sachs and the poignant memories of Mandisi Titi's life.
Transforming lives: the impact of the ISIbalo School Programme on South African youth
Discover how the ISIbalo School Programme is reshaping the educational landscape for South African children, empowering them to overcome historical challenges and prepare for a brighter future.
The Thokolosi of Lesobeng: My journey through African heritage and recognition
Dr Pali Lehohla recounts his recent experiences at various celebrations and awards across South Africa, while reflecting on the cultural significance of the thokolosi in navigating life's events.
The evolution of data leadership: A journey that birthed the World Data Forum
Explore the journey of the Data Revolution, from its inception in 2014 to the latest World Data Forum in Medellín, Colombia, and discover the pivotal role of data in achieving sustainable development goals
A design for disaster: the tragic consequences of South Africa’s failing policies
Child poverty and neglect in South Africa continue to yield devastating outcomes, with government inaction deepening a crisis of poverty, deprivation, and preventable tragedy.
Shaping African statistics: a journey of leadership and legacy
How African statisticians transformed continental data management over the past two decades, featuring pivotal moments from the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa and the establishment of key statistical institutions.
Cry, the beloved country. Mandela's vision vs reality: analysing 30 years of South African education
Examining Nelson Mandela's strategic vision for South Africa through the lens of four national censuses, revealing both progress and challenges in the nation's transformation since 1994
South Africa's progress dilemma: the urgent need for better measurement
In a whirlwind week of national dialogues, from defence force initiatives to auto industry prospects, South Africa grapples with its future.
The hidden agenda behind South Africa's energy transition
Who are the true beneficiaries of renewable energy policies? A national dialogue is needed, says the author.
Leadership in action: How Rwanda made cleanliness next to godliness
Paul Kagame, the president of Rwanda, brought this dimension of Rwandans' lives to the highest standard after the genocide.
Michael Lomas extradition heralds another path towards justice for ex-Eskom boss Matshela Koko
For the past 72 months, Koko publicly enlightened us of the reign of terror that decimated electricity availability to the nation.
Koko’s fight for justice takes another twist as Lomas’s day in court ticks closer
Koko - the then hunted for justice - has become the hunter for justice.
How can foreigners own SARB with no seat for blacks at the table?
The SARB’s mandate is supposed to be developmental and not just regulatory. This is what is at stake.
Census 2022 is in safe hands despite the doubting Thomases
The pain of being missed in a national count is very painful, but the Statistician-General and his team of experts have the medicine for that headache through PES and CHAID.
Professor John Bardill, lecturer, man of the community, passes on
Our unity of purpose besides the internal intellectual and political divisions were decisive against apartheid and Bardill sewed the seeds of our level of consciousness.
Tribute to the passing of Prof Nkondo – a giant and visionary
The BPI Foundation and its patrons bestowed on Nkondo the inaugural BPI Iconic Leadership Excellence Award in the Lifetime Achievement category. This award recognises individuals over the age of 70 who have throughout their lives dedicated themselves, their knowledge, skills, time, talents and efforts to a cause that advanced the betterment of their professions and humanity.
Women are getting ahead of men in education but cycle of GBV has to stop
Women are totally in the forefront of getting degrees compared to men. What women achieved in 30 years is nothing short of a miracle.