In South Africa, maternity pay is provided through the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) for eligible individuals who contribute to the fund. The amount of maternity pay you receive from the UIF is calculated based on your average monthly earnings during a specified period before your maternity leave.
The UIF typically pays a percentage of your average monthly income as maternity benefits. The benefit rate is around 38% of your average monthly earnings during the qualifying period. However, this percentage can vary based on your earnings; higher earners might receive a lower percentage relative to their income.
It’s important to note that while the UIF provides maternity benefits, the amount might not fully replace your regular salary. There are also maximum and minimum thresholds set by the UIF that can impact the final benefit amount.
Your maternity pay from the UIF is subject to taxation, meaning it’s considered taxable income.
To determine the exact amount of maternity pay you’ll receive, the UIF considers your average monthly earnings within the specified period before your maternity leave and applies the benefit rate (around 38%) within the maximum and minimum thresholds set by the UIF.
The specific amount you’ll receive as maternity pay can vary based on your earnings, the UIF regulations in effect at the time of your claim, and any changes in the maximum and minimum thresholds set by the UIF. It’s advisable to contact the Department of Employment and Labour or the UIF office for more accurate and up-to-date information regarding maternity pay calculations.
Top 15 Online Courses and Degrees to improve your employability
Technology and Computer Science Online Courses and Online degrees:
– Computer Science 101 Online Course from Stanford University through edX is a beginner-friendly course that introduces the core concepts of Computer Science, available for free with an option for certification for a fee.
– Programming for Everybody Online degree — Getting Started with Python** by the University of Michigan on Coursera is intended as an entry-level coding class, freely accessible with an optional paid certificate.
Web Development: Online Courses and Online degrees
– Introduction to HTML offered by Codecademy covers HTML basics for free, with advanced options available through paid upgrades.
– Dash by General Assembly is a free course that teaches HTML, CSS, and JavaScript through hands-on project learning.
AI and Data Science: Online Courses and Online degrees
– Introduction to Big Data Online Courses provided by the University of San Diego via Coursera delves into the fundamentals of big data, available at no cost with a certificate available for an extra charge.
– Machine Learning Online Degrees by Stanford University on Coursera is a broad course on machine learning, data mining, and statistical pattern recognition, free to access with optional certification.
Business and Management: Online Courses and Online degrees
– The PG Diploma in Data Science Online Course from IIIT-B focuses on a variety of programming languages and tools and is developed in partnership with leading industry players.
– A Business Analytics Certification Online degree draws attention especially for those targeting analyst and managerial roles, covering essential tools for analytics and data visualization.
Cloud Computing: Online Courses and Online degrees
– The Advanced Certification in Cloud Computing is targeted at engineering graduates looking to fill roles such as Cloud Developer or Cloud Architect.
Project Management and Software Development: Online Courses and Online degrees
– Online degrees in Project Management from leading universities incorporate essential management concepts and business communication.
– The MSc. in Computer Science Online degree from Liverpool John Moores University provides the same level of quality and exposure as on-campus degrees through an 18-month online format.
Cybersecurity: Online Courses and Online degrees
– The Advanced Certificate Programme in Cyber Security by upGrad and IIIT-B offers an in-depth learning experience over 12 months, combining content hours, projects, and live sessions.
Platforms Offering Diverse Learning Opportunities: Online Courses and Online degrees
– FutureLearn offers accelerated courses, microcredentials, and professional certificates across multiple fields with various payment options including subscriptions.
– Coursera partners with over 275 universities and organizations worldwide, offering a wide range of degrees and professional certificates.
– Udacity specializes in IT and technology courses, with nanodegrees and programs designed in collaboration with industry leaders.
– Codecademy focuses on coding and programming, providing free learning opportunities in various coding languages with additional professional development programs.
These courses and degrees are designed to equip individuals with in-demand skills across various sectors, enhancing employability and providing valuable certifications. Whether interested in technology, data science, business, or other areas, these online resources offer flexible and comprehensive ways to learn and advance in your career.