Headline 1
Wits Innovation Makes TB Testing Safer and Faster
Story 1
SmartSpot, developed by Professor Bavesh Kana and his team at Wits University, is changing how tuberculosis testing is done globally.
The innovation uses specially treated samples containing TB DNA but no live bacteria, allowing labs to safely calibrate diagnostic machines without infection risk.
To improve safety and scalability, the team engineered harmless soil bacteria that mimic TB at the genetic level, creating an affordable and reliable testing aid.
SmartSpot has been implemented in over 390 sites across 24 countries, improving access to fast, safe, and accurate TB diagnosis.
This breakthrough highlights South Africa’s cutting-edge local research and commitment to tackling TB through innovation.
The innovation uses specially treated samples containing TB DNA but no live bacteria, allowing labs to safely calibrate diagnostic machines without infection risk.
To improve safety and scalability, the team engineered harmless soil bacteria that mimic TB at the genetic level, creating an affordable and reliable testing aid.
SmartSpot has been implemented in over 390 sites across 24 countries, improving access to fast, safe, and accurate TB diagnosis.
This breakthrough highlights South Africa’s cutting-edge local research and commitment to tackling TB through innovation.
Story 1 category
Headline 2
School Sports Gets Major Boost to Develop Future Champions
Story 2
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture says it is firmly committed to reviving school sports across South Africa.
Over R125 million has been allocated in the 2025/26 budget to grow youth participation and support future sports stars.
R53.5 million will strengthen school sport at district level, while R72 million will help 5000 learners compete in the National Schools Sports Championship.
Deputy Minister Peace Mabe says partnerships with Basic Education and private funders like FNB are helping build a stronger school sport system.
The department says it is investing in talent, expanding access, and creating opportunities for every child to participate and thrive.
Over R125 million has been allocated in the 2025/26 budget to grow youth participation and support future sports stars.
R53.5 million will strengthen school sport at district level, while R72 million will help 5000 learners compete in the National Schools Sports Championship.
Deputy Minister Peace Mabe says partnerships with Basic Education and private funders like FNB are helping build a stronger school sport system.
The department says it is investing in talent, expanding access, and creating opportunities for every child to participate and thrive.
Story 2 category
Headline 3
Filming Under Way for New Harry Potter TV Series Set for 2027
Story 3
A new Harry Potter television series is in production and expected to air in 2027 on HBO Max.
Filming is taking place at Warner Bros. Studios in Leavesden, Britain, marking the first time the story is being adapted for the small screen.
Based on the best-selling books, the series will feature a new cast, with Dominic McLaughlin as Harry, Arabella Stanton as Hermione, and Alastair Stout as Ron.
Veteran actors including John Lithgow and Paapa Essiedu will also appear, while JK Rowling is involved as an executive producer.
The show is planned as a long-running series, with each season focusing on different parts of the original story
Filming is taking place at Warner Bros. Studios in Leavesden, Britain, marking the first time the story is being adapted for the small screen.
Based on the best-selling books, the series will feature a new cast, with Dominic McLaughlin as Harry, Arabella Stanton as Hermione, and Alastair Stout as Ron.
Veteran actors including John Lithgow and Paapa Essiedu will also appear, while JK Rowling is involved as an executive producer.
The show is planned as a long-running series, with each season focusing on different parts of the original story
Story 3 category
Financial Indicators headline
Financial Indicators
Financial indicators
Your financial indicators for this hour:
The Rand is trading at 17.93 to the US Dollar, 24.02
to the British Pound, and 20.81 to the Euro.
Gold is trading at 3,338.61 dollars a fine ounce, Brent Crude Oil is at 68.71 per barrel, and a Bitcoin will set you back 118 775,00.
The Rand is trading at 17.93 to the US Dollar, 24.02
to the British Pound, and 20.81 to the Euro.
Gold is trading at 3,338.61 dollars a fine ounce, Brent Crude Oil is at 68.71 per barrel, and a Bitcoin will set you back 118 775,00.
Split analysis
Local: 102 words (33%), National: 207 words (67%), International: 0 words (0%)