International Student Info About South Africa
| About South Africa |
Things You Need to Know About South Africa
South Africa is a nation of over 47-million people of diverse origins, cultures, languages and beliefs. Around 79% are black (or African), 9% white, 9% "colored" - the local label for people of mixed African, Asian and white descent - and 2.5% Indian or Asian. Just over half the population lives in the cities. Geographically speaking, South Africa is an incredibly beautiful country. It boasts a varied climate - one that is mostly warm in summer and cool in winter. High mountains and sunny beaches with both cold and warm seas. These are just some of the amazing things to experience here. Semi-arid plateaus, heavily forested areas and great watery regions are all just part of the South African experience. The diversity makes for interesting variety when sight-seeing in the country. The country also boasts seven major biomes which adds to plant and animal diversity and is very rare in such a concentrated area. On top of this, the majority of the country is a malaria-free zone which means that you will be able to enjoy the wonders of nature without the concerns of being infected by strange diseases. The following map will help you to better visualize how South Africa is organized and divided into its various regions.
Click maps to enlarge
Provinces
South Africa has nine provinces:
Languages
South Africa has 11 official languages:
At MGI, the medium of instruction is English ONLY. However, all 11 South African languages , as well as others from outside of South Africa are represented on campus.
Two-thirds of South Africans are Christians, the largest church being the indigenous Zion Christian Church (ZCC), followed by the Dutch Reformed and Catholic churches. Many churches combine Christian and traditional African beliefs. Other significant religions, with much smaller followings, are Islam, Hinduism and Judaism.
Time Difference Standard time in South Africa is two hours (+2) ahead of Greenwich meantime. No zone or seasonal variations apply in South Africa.
Climate
Average Temperatures
S A Currency The South African currency is the Rand denoted by the symbol R (R1.00 = 100 cents)
Foreign Currency Foreign currency and traveler’s cheques (provided the currency is accepted in South Africa), may be converted into local currency. Local Banks and a few other institutions listed below will convert foreign currency:
Please take note that a commission fee is charged for every transaction. For currency conversions take a look at these two websites: http://www.xe.com or http://www.oanda.com
Banking Facilities All the major banks are situated close to the campus at the Boulders Shopping Mall and we also have an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) on campus. This ATM operates during school working hours. Credit Cards and Travelers' Cheques
In South Africa most major credit cards are accepted. Examples are: Mastercard, Visa Card, Diners Club and American Express.
Value Added Tax (VAT) In South Africa, Value Added Tax is levied on most goods and services. The current rate is 14%. Usually this is included in the marked prices. Non-RSA citizens/ residents may, however, claim back VAT on items taken out of the country when the total value exceeds a certain amount. Proof of items bought and documentation will be required at point of exit.
International Driver's Licence For insurance purpose it is advisable to obtain an international driver's license in the country in which the holder's national license was issued. An international driver's license is valid for one year. Information about the renewal of such a license should be obtained in the country of origin before proceeding to South Africa. The holder's national driver's license is valid for a period of six months from date of entry in the RSA, provided it has been issued in English and that it contains a photograph of the holder and his/her signature; and the holder's nationality.
Electricity City and town power systems operate at 220/250 volts, AC50Hz. Adapters for electric appliances can be purchased at airports and major shopping centers.
Weights and Measures Metric system is used in South Africa
Tap Water Water in South Africa in areas other than informal or shack settlements, is safe to drink straight from the tap. Water for public use is of high quality and treated to be free from harmful micro-organisms. Bottled mineral water is also readily available (still and sparkling).
Shopping All South African cities and large towns boast excellent shopping facilities. Shopping in South Africa can be great as most big shopping malls have different restaurants, cinemas, franchises and shops pick and to choose from. The closest shopping Mall to MGI is The Boulders Shopping Mall, which is 3km away from MGI.
Computer Access Computer access is available to registered students free of charge on campus. We also have a wireless internet service that can be accessed at a fee.
Postal Services and Photocopying Postal and printing services are available on campus.
Calling South Africa from other countries If you wish to give your South African telephone number to someone in another country, make sure you add the South African country code, which is always 27; the area code; your own number.
Example:
Transport from the Airport The Midrand Graduate Institute is located approximately 30 kilometers from the O R Thambo International Airport. Should you require transport from the airport to the campus or accommodation in Midrand, you can arrange for this with your student advisor.
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