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Poll Question: What do you think about the MiDesk initiative?

News SY, Newsroom, Poll/Quiz / February 28, 2025 February 28, 2025

According to The Herald, the Department of Basic Education, in partnership with McDonald’s, introduced MiDesk—sponsorship-branded wheelie schoolbags that convert into desks and chairs. The initiative aims to support students facing infrastructure challenges, with Minister Siviwe Gwarube calling it an innovative solution. MiDesk features wheels, a solar light, and a USB port, but critics argue it is too heavy for students to carry daily. Actress Florence Masebe questioned whether the donors’ own children would use them, raising concerns about potential health risks. Others accused the department of using the initiative as a marketing ploy for McDonald’s. In response, the department clarified that taking the desk home is optional, meant only for students without a dedicated study space.

@thefuse
The education department & McDonald’s introduced MiDesk—a backpack that turns into a desk & chair. It’s meant to help students without proper school furniture. Source: The Herald, Image credit: Dept of Basic Education, X. #news #tiktoksouthafrica
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Poll Question: Do you think budget delays in the GNU are a major concern?

News SY, Newsroom, Poll/Quiz, Polls / February 26, 2025 February 26, 2025

President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed concerns over the delayed budget, stating that such delays were not unusual and often occurred at various levels of government, including municipalities, EWN reports. Speaking at the opening of the National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders, he reassured that the Government of National Unity (GNU) parties would reach a consensus before the revised budget is tabled on 12 March. Ramaphosa acknowledged that budget disagreements have historically led to government collapses but emphasized that such challenges are common in coalition governments worldwide. This is the first budget involving multiple parties after the ANC lost its majority, making negotiations more complex. Despite the delay, Ramaphosa remains confident that the revised budget will be inclusive and address key economic issues such as poverty and inequality.