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South African President to Address Education Conference and Inaugurate Cruise Terminal

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Cape Town – President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa is set to deliver a keynote address at the Education International 10th Africa Regional (EIRAF) Conference in Johannesburg on Tuesday. The conference, taking place from November 19 to 23, is centered on the theme "Standing Together for Resilient Education Systems in Times of Crisis."

According to South African Government News Agency, The Presidency stated that the conference aims to develop strategies for equitable, inclusive, and high-quality public education, addressing challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Ebola, HIV and AIDS, conflict, and climate change. Key topics to be discussed include Early Childhood Education for All in Africa, creating safe and healthy educational institutions, social and policy dialogue based on evidence, and promoting academic freedom and professional autonomy in Africa.

Held every four years, the EIRAF serves as a crucial platform for policy adoption, reports, and approval of future programs as stipulated in its Constitution. The conference offers member organizations an essential opportunity for in-depth discussions on trade unions, education, and other critical regional issues.

Additionally, on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa is scheduled to inaugurate the Nelson Mandela cruise terminal in Durban. This terminal is a product of a public-private partnership formed between Transnet and the Mediterranean Cruise Company (MSC) in 2019. The MSC's vision for the terminal was a modern and technologically advanced facility to enhance the experience for guests and make Durban a more attractive destination for global cruise ships.

The initial investment in the terminal was R296.7 million, with an additional R30 million invested in 2023 for further expansion, indicating the growing demand for cruising in the country. Notably, 70% of procurement for the terminal was sourced within South Africa, with all consultants and experts, including architects, engineers, and attorneys, being South African.

The launch of the terminal symbolizes MSC Cruises' strong commitment to both the KwaZulu-Natal Region and South Africa as a whole, highlighting the country's potential as a premier destination for international cruising.