News Bulletin of 15 March 2026, 12pm

Two standout athletes from Hoërskool Linden have qualified for the South African Schools Championships. Taking place from the 9th to the 11th of April, Ameri Botha and Jeandry Opperman will compete at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg. Opperman, a Grade 12 learner, will compete in the 400m hurdles for the first time at this championship level, having earned his spot with a strong second-place finish in the event. He aims to reach the finals or secure a podium finish. Botha was also impressive in his events, securing his place with performances that showcased strength, skill, and endurance.

A lecturer from the Department of Chemistry and Science at Stellenbosch University, is turning grit into opportunity for deserving science students. Through her Wheels of Opportunity initiative, Dr Marietjie Lutzshe aims to raise R100,000 for the Move4Food programme. This would help students in need access essential support so they can focus on their studies. The idea for WOOP began in 2022 when Dr Lutz learned that one of her students was facing homelessness but still excelling academically. To help financially struggling BSc students, she launched a fundraising cycling challenge. This year, she will take on one of the toughest mountain bike stage races in the world, the Absa Cape Epic to support the cause.

Western Cape Education MEC David Mayneeyr has launched the 2026 Story Stars competition, inviting Grade 4 learners to showcase their creativity through storytelling. Led by the Western Cape Education Department, the annual initiative aims to inspire a love of reading and writing while boosting literacy skills among young learners.