News Bulletin of 14 January 2026, 4pm

Headline 1
Johannesburg theatres kick off the year with big productions
Story 1
Johannesburg theatre lovers have a packed lineup this month, with shows including the hit musical CATS at the Teatro at Montecasino from January 17 to February 22.
The production features Cindy Ann Abrahams as Grizabella and Dylan Janse van Rensburg as Rum Tum Tugger, bringing Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic score to local audiences.
Another highlight is the Amy Winehouse tribute The Diva and Her Demons at Theatre on the Square, running from January 15 to 25
Story 1 category
Headline 2
Free State teacher maintains 100% science pass rate for nine years
Story 2
A Free State teacher has achieved a 100-percent physical science pass rate for nine consecutive years.
Thirty-one-year-old Lerato Ramabodu recorded another full pass rate with the matric class of 2025 — a record he has maintained since he began teaching the subject in 2017.
Now deputy principal at Makwane Secondary School in QwaQwa, Ramabodu says his results are driven by extra classes, close learner support, and strong involvement from parents.
He starts lessons as early as six in the morning, runs afternoon and evening classes, and says he often gives additional support to struggling pupils to ensure no learner is left behind.
During the release of the matric results, Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube praised the performance of no-fee schools like Makwane, saying they highlight progress in the education system.
Story 2 category
Headline 3
Midrand orphanage receives support from philanthropist and family
Story 3
Children at Hotel Homes Orphanage in Midrand have received groceries, food, and daily essentials from philanthropist Gurrala Nagaraju, his family, and close friends.
The group spent time with the children, engaging in activities and offering encouragement, creating moments of joy and connection.
The visit forms part of Nagaraju’s ongoing efforts to support the well-being of children in the community, with the family hoping it will inspire others to contribute and assist children in need.
Story 3 category
Financial Indicators headline
Financial Indicators
Financial indicators
Your financial indicators for this hour:

The Rand is trading at 16.39 to the US Dollar, 22.04 to the British Pound, and 19.08 to the Euro.

Gold is trading at 4,637.18 dollars a fine ounce, Brent Crude Oil is at 65.47 per barrel, and a Bitcoin will set you back 95,017.00.
Teaser / Tailpiece headline
South Korea ends bear bile farming
Teaser / Tailpiece story
South Korea has confirmed it will end its controversial bear bile farming industry, banning breeding, possession, and extraction of bile from 1 January 2026.
Around 200 bears are still kept on farms, though some have already been relocated to government-run sanctuaries. Farmers have a six-month grace period, and the government will provide financial support for housing the animals until they are moved.
Officials say the move reflects a national commitment to animal welfare, though activists warn that more sanctuaries are needed to safely accommodate all rescued bears.
Split analysis
Local: 148 words (54%), National: 127 words (46%), International: 0 words (0%)