News Bulletin of 12 May 2026, 1pm

The Wits School of Arts is hosting a month-long Africa Month programme featuring performances, exhibitions, film screenings and discussions at the University of the Witwatersrand.
Observed every May, Africa Month marks the formation of the Organisation of African Unity and celebrates African identity and heritage. This year’s theme focuses on “Water as Life, Memory, and Infrastructure,” exploring its role in culture and everyday life across Africa and the Global South.
The programme includes jazz, theatre, workshops and exhibitions, and will end later this month with a tribute concert honouring Miriam Makeba.

A 24 year old graduate from Pietermaritzburg has inspired South Africans after an emotional moment with her mother at a recent University of KwaZulu-Natal graduation ceremony went viral online.
Nontuthuko Dlamini graduated with a BA Honours degree in Sociology despite years of financial hardship while being raised by her mother, an informal trader. Videos of the pair embracing at the ceremony touched many across the country and led to an outpouring of support on social media.
South Africans have since offered mentorship, clothing and other assistance as Dlamini’s story continues to inspire people facing their own challenges.

Eighty-three learners from Hlanganani High School in Mpumalanga have completed a 12-day crime prevention and justice programme aimed at promoting safer schools and communities.
The initiative by the Safer South Africa Foundation exposed learners to key justice system institutions, including the police, courts and correctional services, through visits and practical learning such as a mock court.
They also received financial literacy training and took part in activities focused on responsible decision making.
The foundation says more than 8,000 learners across Mpumalanga have now benefited from the programme over the past five years.