News Bulletin of 11 August 2025, 4pm

Pinky Sekai from Ga-Rankuwa has dedicated nearly a decade to helping vulnerable people in her community.
Her work began in 2016 by providing soup to elderly social grant recipients waiting in long queues at the local Sassa paypoint.
Since then, Sekai has grown the initiative into Northern Hope Gardens, which now supplies fresh produce to more than 50 families and employs local women to maintain the garden.
She also manages healthcare support, delivering chronic medication to around 130 patients at their homes each month.
Sekai regularly visits schools to distribute sanitary products and toiletries, supporting both girls and boys.
Her commitment is driven by a simple message: anyone can make a difference without waiting for the perfect moment.

The National Arts Festival is inviting artists to apply for its Curated Programme, set for Makhanda from 25 June to 5 July 2026.
Open to creators across disciplines, the programme will feature works selected for their artistic merit, innovation and relevance. Categories include completed works, works in development, and new ideas.
While the 2026 focus is on completed and developing projects, early-stage concepts are also welcome.
Applications close on 3 October 2025, with shortlisted artists to be announced on 14 November 2025.

Four schools in Atteridgeville outside Pretoria have received modern science laboratories to strengthen STEM education.
The facilities at Bokgoni Technical Secondary, Hofmeyr High, Edward Phatudi Comprehensive and Seaparankwe Primary were unveiled by Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa.
The project is a partnership between government and private companies including the SA Nuclear Energy Corporation, Huawei, and Avon and Dedisa.
The upgraded labs aim to inspire learners to explore careers in science, engineering and technology while improving hands-on learning from primary school level.
The initiative forms part of Mandela Month activities and may be expanded to other provinces in future.