Established in 1990, PRASA has been responsible for providing passenger rail services across South Africa. With its headquarters in Hatfield, Pretoria, PRASA is an integral part of the nation’s infrastructure, ensuring that millions of South Africans have access to reliable and efficient rail transport.
Overview of PRASA
PRASA operates under the aegis of the Government of South Africa and is tasked with overseeing various divisions that manage different aspects of rail transport. These include:
- Metrorail: Responsible for suburban train services.
- Shosholoza Meyl: Provides long-distance passenger rail services.
- Autopax: Manages intercity bus services.
- PRASA Cres: Focuses on commercial and retail properties.
- PRASA Tech: Handles technological and engineering services.
With a workforce of approximately 17,000 employees as of 2020, PRASA is a significant employer and a key player in South Africa’s transportation sector.
Leadership Through the Years
PRASA has seen various changes in its leadership over the years. Here’s a snapshot of the key executives who have led the agency:
- Tshepo Lucky Montana (2010–2015): During his tenure, PRASA underwent significant developments in service delivery and infrastructure.
- Nathi Khena (2015–2016): Focused on enhancing operational efficiency.
- Collins Letsoalo (2016–2017): Continued efforts to improve rail services.
- Lindikaya Zide (2017–2018): Led during a period of strategic adjustments.
- Sibusiso Sithole (2018–2019): Focused on modernization and improving passenger experiences.
- Nkosinathi Sishi (2019): Served as a transitional leader.
- Bongisizwe Mpondo (2019–2020): Implemented new strategies for service improvement.
- Thandeka Mabija (2020–2021): Led efforts during a challenging period for the rail sector.
- Zolani Kgosie Matthews (2021): Focused on stability and growth.
- David Mphelo (2021–2022): Guided PRASA through ongoing reforms.
- Hishaam Emeran (2022–Present): Currently steering PRASA towards future growth and innovation.
Challenges and Future Outlook
PRASA has faced numerous challenges, including financial constraints, aging infrastructure, and the need for modernization. However, the agency remains committed to addressing these issues through strategic investments and improvements in technology. As South Africa continues to grow, PRASA is poised to play a vital role in supporting sustainable transportation solutions and enhancing the overall passenger experience.
Overview of Public Universities in South Africa
Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.
University of Pretoria
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
- Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.
University of Cape Town
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
- Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.
Stellenbosch University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
- Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.
University of the Witwatersrand
- Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
- Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.
University of Johannesburg
- Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
- Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.
University of the Free State
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.
University of Venda
- Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
- Application Period: Usually from May to September.
University of Fort Hare
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
- Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.
University of the Western Cape
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
- Application Period: Generally from May to September.
North-West University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
- Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.
Rhodes University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
- Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.
Nelson Mandela University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
- Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.
University of Limpopo
- Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
- Application Period: From April to September.
University of Zululand
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
- Application Period: Usually between April and November.
Central University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
- Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.
Vaal University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
- Application Period: Typically from May to September.
Walter Sisulu University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
- Application Period: From April to September.
This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.