Investigate ways in which the government has contributed to combating or stopping the chosen social issues to ease the burden for ordinary South Africans.

1. Gender-based violence: The South African government has implemented various measures to combat gender-based violence, including the establishment of specialized units within the police force to handle cases of violence against women and children. The government has also introduced legislation such as the Domestic Violence Act and the Sexual Offences Act to provide legal protection for victims of gender-based violence. Additionally, the government has launched awareness campaigns and support services for survivors of gender-based violence.

2. Unemployment: The South African government has implemented various programs and initiatives to address unemployment, including the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) which provides temporary employment opportunities to unemployed individuals. The government has also established the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) to provide financial support to workers who have lost their jobs. Furthermore, the government has introduced skills development programs and vocational training to help individuals acquire the necessary skills to enter the workforce.

3. Poverty: The South African government has implemented various social welfare programs to alleviate poverty, including the provision of social grants to vulnerable individuals and families. The government has also introduced initiatives such as the National Development Plan (NDP) which aims to reduce poverty and inequality through economic growth and job creation. Additionally, the government has implemented housing programs to provide affordable housing to low-income families.

4. Education: The South African government has made significant investments in education to improve access to quality education for all South Africans. The government has introduced initiatives such as the National School Nutrition Programme to provide meals to school children from disadvantaged backgrounds. The government has also implemented the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to provide financial assistance to students from low-income families to access higher education. Additionally, the government has introduced curriculum reforms and teacher training programs to improve the quality of education in South Africa.

Social Issue: Unemployment and Poverty

Government Contributions to Combat the Issue:

- National Development Plan (NDP): A long-term vision to eradicate poverty and unemployment by 2030. Sets specific targets and strategies to create jobs, reduce inequality, and promote economic growth.
- Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF): Provides temporary financial assistance to workers who have lost their jobs.
- Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP): Creates temporary work opportunities for unemployed individuals in areas such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
- Skills Development Grant: Subsidizes training and education programs to enhance skills and employability of unemployed youth.
- Microfinance Support: Provides access to small loans and financial services to entrepreneurs and small businesses, creating employment opportunities.
- Youth Employment Service (YES): Matches unemployed youth with potential employers and provides training and support.

Social Issue: Healthcare and Inequality

Government Contributions to Combat the Issue:

- National Health Insurance (NHI): An ambitious plan to provide universal healthcare coverage to all South Africans, regardless of their ability to pay.
- Free Primary Healthcare: Primary healthcare services, including immunization, child health, and HIV/AIDS treatment, are provided free of charge to all citizens.
- Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Provides free services to those in need of urgent medical attention.
- Health Professions Education Partnership Initiative (HPEPI): Aims to increase the number of healthcare professionals and improve the quality of healthcare services.
- National Cancer Registry: Monitors cancer incidence and trends, facilitating early detection and prevention.

Social Issue: Gender-Based Violence and Femicide

Government Contributions to Combat the Issue:

- Domestic Violence Act: Criminalizes all forms of domestic violence and provides protection orders for victims.
- Sexual Offenses Act: Stringent penalties for sexual offenses, including rape and sexual assault.
- Thuthuzela Care Centres: Specialized healthcare facilities that provide comprehensive medical and psychological support to victims of sexual violence.
- Gender-Based Violence Command Centre: A 24/7 call center that provides support and referral services to victims.
- White Ribbon Campaign: A nationwide initiative to raise awareness and mobilize men against violence against women.

Social Issue: Education and Literacy

Government Contributions to Combat the Issue:

- Free Basic Education: Education is free and compulsory for all children up to Grade 12.
- Teacher Development Programmes: Professional development opportunities for teachers to enhance their skills and improve the quality of education.
- School Infrastructure Grant: Provides funds for the construction, renovation, and maintenance of school buildings.
- Adult Education Centres: Offer literacy and numeracy programs to adults who missed out on formal education.
- National School Nutrition Programme: Provides nutritious meals to children in public schools to improve their health and attendance.

Impact on Ordinary South Africans:

These government initiatives have helped to ease the burden for ordinary South Africans by:

- Providing financial assistance and employment opportunities to alleviate unemployment and poverty.
- Improving access to healthcare services, reducing health disparities, and promoting well-being.
- Enacting laws and providing support services to protect vulnerable groups from violence and abuse.
- Enhancing educational opportunities and promoting literacy, empowering individuals to improve their lives.