News Bulletin of 18 April 2026, 11am

Headline 1
City of Ekurhuleni achieves top national recognition for Water and Wastewater Management
Story 1
The City of Ekurhuleni has achieved significant national recognition in the 2026 Blue Drop, Green Drop and No Drop reports that have been released by the Department of Water and Sanitation.
The metro achieved an impressive clean sweep in the top-performing wastewater systems category, securing first, second and third place rankings nationally.

The city also earned six Green Drop certifications at gold level, demonstrating adherence to the highest standards of environmental management and wastewater treatment.

Member of the Mayoral Committee for Metro Trading Utilities, Councillor Jean Sthato
says the achievement reflects years of sustained investment and efforts to improve water and sanitation services.
Story 1 category
Headline 2
Basic Education Minister celebrates SA spelling Bee Champions
Story 2
Six young South African learners were honoured by Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube after winning the 8th African Spelling Bee in Harare, Zimbabwe.

The team displayed exceptional skill, with some members also heading to a global competition in China this July.

The competition covered English words and those from other African languages.

The Minister emphasized that "a reading nation is a winning nation" and has highlighted the role of extracurriculars in boosting literacy.
Story 2 category
Headline 3
Nelson Mandela University launches Creative Media Lab
Story 3
The Nelson Mandela University, in partnership with the Media Development and Diversity Agency and the Economic Development Fund, has launched a student-driven Creative Media Lab aimed at bridging the gap between academic training and industry demands.

The Lab operates as a working agency within the institution, providing students with hands-on experience in content creation, media production, and strategic communication.

The initiative responds to growing concerns around graduate employability by equipping students with practical skills and direct industry exposure.

Students will gain hands-on experience across a wide range of disciplines, including photography, videography, animation, graphic design and podcasting, while building industry-ready portfolios.

The university says the lab will also strengthen collaboration between academia and industry while serving as a pipeline for emerging creative talent.
Story 3 category
Financial Indicators headline
Financial Indicators
Teaser / Tailpiece headline
SA Researchers selected for 75th Lindau Nobel Laureate meeting
Teaser / Tailpiece story
Six South African scientists will be heading on a trip to Germany to attend the 75th Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting.

The meeting which is described as one of the world’s most exclusive scientific gatherings, is expected to take place from the 28th of June.

The annual gathering creates a platform for dialogue on cutting-edge science and global research challenges, offering early-career scientists a rare opportunity to engage directly with some of the world’s most celebrated minds.

This year's meeting has drawn confirmations from 75 Nobel Laureates and will host approximately 636 young scientists from 88 countries.

The Academy of Science of South Africa serves as the official South African partner of the Lindau Foundation and makes annual nominations with support from the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation.
Split analysis
Local: 102 words (34%), National: 196 words (66%), International: 0 words (0%)