The Eastern Cape health department has been reeling from massive losses amounting to R3.7 billion over the span of eight years due to medico-legal claims. This distressing revelation emerged during a recent clinical governance seminar, as reported by News24. Sizwe Kupelo, spokesperson for the department, emphasized that these substantial losses had a profoundly adverse impact on both the staff and service delivery. In response, the department has taken proactive measures to recoup the funds and pursue legal action against fraudulent claims. The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has already made significant strides, reducing the department’s liability from R2.9 billion to R132.8 million by combating inflated claims. Looking ahead, the department aims to overhaul its strategies by focusing on reinforcing internal governance systems, combating abuses such as limited work hours by employees in public hospitals before attending private practices, addressing overtime issues, and prioritizing the filling of vacant positions.
Pregnant Matric Pupil Granted Special Concession to Write Exam
In a heartening development, the Department of Basic Education has granted a pregnant pupil a special concession to write her matric exam, following an initial denial by a teacher. This compassionate intervention came after the pupil was initially prohibited from writing the exam as she had not been accompanied by her mother to school, in accordance with the school’s regulations for pregnant pupils. However, the Department of Basic Education stepped in to rectify this situation, ensuring that the young student will now be able to write a replacement paper under the supervision of the circuit manager. The student, who is expected to give birth later this month, expressed immense relief at the opportunity to finally write her exam, thanks to this considerate resolution.
South African Sailor Named 2023’s Woman World Sailor of the Year
Amidst the waves and winds of the ocean, South African Kirsten Neuschäfer has clinched the title of the female 2023 Rolex World Sailor of the Year. Her remarkable feat was achieved during the challenging Golden Globe Race, as detailed by Eyewitness News. Neuschäfer distinguished herself as one of the 15 competitors to conquer this grueling solo race. Aboard her sailboat, Minnehaha, she made history by becoming the first woman to complete and emerge victorious in this demanding circumnavigation. Enduring the rigors of sailing in the high latitudes of the Southern Ocean, battling relentless winds and towering waves, she demonstrated unparalleled mental fortitude and physical resilience during her 235 days at sea. Notably, her vessel, a Cape George 36, embodies the vintage era of solo sailing, devoid of electronic aids. Neuschäfer’s ardor for sailing, cultivated since her childhood days on small dinghies, reflects her deep-seated love for the sea and her unwavering joy in making autonomous decisions. Beyond her sailing exploits, her adventurous spirit led her to undertake a 15,000 km cycling journey from Europe to South Africa at the age of 22.
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