News Bulletin of 16 September 2025, 3pm

BirdLife South Africa has awarded EcoSolutions the 2025 Owl Award in recognition of over 20 years of work in owl conservation and poison-free rodent control.
The organisation has promoted barn owl and spotted eagle-owl boxes as a natural alternative to chemical rodenticides, with more than 160 boxes now occupied in Gauteng alone.
EcoSolutions combines technology and education, using cameras on owl boxes to allow schools and the public to observe nesting behaviour, while research programmes and workshops teach communities about the vital role of owls in ecosystems.
The award highlights EcoSolutions’ innovative approach in combining science, community engagement, and environmental leadership to protect wildlife and promote sustainable pest management.

Cape Town’s libraries have introduced a new digital system designed to make reading more accessible. Library cards, catalogues and e-books are now available online, and readers can apply for a card digitally before collecting it at their local branch.
The platform opens the door to thousands of titles, from international bestsellers to timeless classics.
It also highlights the latest additions to the library’s collection.
City officials say the move will benefit students, researchers and book lovers alike, providing a modern and convenient way to explore and enjoy the world of reading.

The World Robot Olympiad is rapidly expanding across Africa, with schools in countries including South Africa, Nigeria, Zimbabwe and Uganda introducing coding, AI and robotics to thousands of learners.
The initiative is backed by global partners such as Google and UNECA and is giving students hands-on skills in innovation, teamwork and problem-solving.
Teams are already producing impactful projects, from AI tools for the visually impaired to inclusive robotics programmes for special needs learners.
Organisers say the Olympiad is more than a competition, serving as a launchpad for future-ready education that blends technology with creativity and social impact.
With participation spreading to more countries each year, WRO Africa is equipping a new generation of ethical innovators and problem-solvers to shape the continent’s future.