News Bulletin of 17 November 2025, 2pm

The University of Pretoria won 34 awards at the 2025 MACE Excellence Awards, the most of any South African university.
Gold awards went to its upgraded mobile app, digital fundraising campaign, and alumni publications. Silver and Bronze honours were also received across student recruitment, events, and multimedia campaigns.
The awards recognise the work of UP’s communications and marketing teams in delivering creative and effective campaigns.

S&P Global has upgraded South Africa’s foreign-currency long-term rating, moving the country out of junk status for the first time in two decades.
The agency cited stronger economic growth prospects, tighter debt management, and an improved fiscal outlook.
Reduced risks at state power utility Eskom also helped ease pressure on government finances, a key factor in the upgrade.
National Treasury says the move reflects progress in restoring fiscal credibility and putting the economy on a sustainable growth path.
The upgrade could lead to lower government borrowing costs, higher investor confidence, and more jobs and investment opportunities for ordinary South Africans.

Five-year-old girls took part in a regional karate tournament in Tehran, one of 230 participants in the competition.
The event allowed an all-female audience and was filmed by international media, a rare occurrence for women’s sports in Iran.
Karate has been reinstated for women after previously being banned, with strict dress codes in place, and is increasingly challenging traditional gender norms.
Iranian female athletes have recently won medals at regional and international competitions, including the Asian Championships.
Coaches say the sport develops discipline, resilience and confidence among girls.