News Bulletin of 11 April 2026, 10am

The Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has welcomed the Africa Spelling Bee Championship trophy, presented by six learners who represented South Africa at the continental competition.

The learners made history at the 8th African Spelling Bee in Zimbabwe showcasing exceptional skills.

The ceremony, which was held at the Education Department in Pretoria, celebrated the learners’ outstanding achievement and highlighted the country’s progress in promoting literacy and academic excellence.

The Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon is set to take place this Saturday in Cape Town.

The 56-kilometre ultra marathon will start on Main Road in Newlands and finish at the University of Cape Town upper campus rugby field, with the half marathon scheduled for Sunday.

Organisers have announced an increase in prize money, with a total of R380,000 that will be awarded to the winners in both the men’s and women’s 56km races, adding extra incentive for competitors this year.

A 16 year old learner from Limpopo Bohlale Mphahlele has earned national recognition after winning a bronze medal at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists for her innovative anti-violence device.
Mphahlele developed a smart earpiece, cleverly disguised as a stylish earring, designed to help combat gender-based violence in South Africa.

The device allows users to discreetly capture an attacker’s photo at the press of a hidden button, while simultaneously sending the image along with a live location to pre-selected emergency contacts.

Judges praised the invention for addressing a critical social challenge using practical and accessible technology, highlighting its potential to make a meaningful impact in communities affected by gender-based violence.
The young innovator is now working to refine the device into a market-ready product aimed at improving safety for women and schoolgirls across the country.