News Bulletin of 18 July 2026, 11am

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ICT leader unveils youth career development platform
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A Kempton Park ICT leader and doctoral researcher has launched an innovative education and career development platform to help young people discover their purpose, develop future-ready skills and prepare for meaningful employment.

The MYFuture App is designed to provide personalised career guidance, skills development and mentorship opportunities to bridge the gap between schooling and employment.

Natasha Prins, who has more than 23 years’ experience in the information and communications technology sector, says the initiative was inspired by her passion for helping young people realise their potential.

The mobile-first, data-driven platform has been designed specifically for South African conditions and offers low-data functionality, offline-friendly learning modules and content that is aligned with the CAPS curriculum.
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Headline 2
Gauteng Health launches Mandela Month Surgical Marathon
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The Gauteng Department of Health will conduct more than 1,000 surgeries and clinical procedures in the month of July as part of its annual Mandela Month Surgical Marathon.

The initiative forms part of the department's ongoing efforts to reduce surgical waiting lists, improve access to healthcare and restore dignity to patients that are awaiting life-changing procedures across the province's public hospitals.

A total of 19 public hospitals have committed to carrying out 1,078 surgeries and clinical procedures by the end of July, exceeding last year's total of 806 surgeries.

The Gauteng Health spokesperson Steve Mabona says the marathon aims to honour Nelson Mandela's legacy by restoring hope, dignity and timely healthcare to patients across the province.
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Headline 3
UWC dominates USSA Dance Championships
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The University of the Western Cape’s Dance Sport Club claimed 21 medals at the 2026 University Sports South Africa Dance Sport Championships that was hosted by the University of the Free State.

The event featured a wide range of competitions including Latin American, Standard and Street Dance.

The University won 10 gold, seven silver and four bronze medals across ballroom, Latin American and street dance events.

Co-captain Dene Visser says hard work and dedication contributed to the team's success
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Financial Indicators headline
Financial Indicators
Teaser / Tailpiece headline
FIFA to explore 2030 World Cup expansion
Teaser / Tailpiece story
FIFA is considering a proposal to expand the 2030 World Cup to a record-breaking 64 teams, up from the 48-team format that was introduced for 2026.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has acknowledged that the governing body will explore expanding the World Cup in 2030, following his declaration that the 2026 edition has been a resounding success.

FIFA held discussions in September last year over expanding the tournament after receiving a formal proposal.

The 2030 tournament will be hosted across six nations and three continents, with opening matches planned for Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay.
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Local: 225 words (75%), National: 77 words (25%), International: 0 words (0%)