News Bulletin of 2 July 2025, 5pm

The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls has emerged as the top school in the 2025 MobiReadathon Digital Reading Finals, hosted by the University of Johannesburg Library.
Now in its third year, the programme—launched by the City of Johannesburg Library Services—uses mobile technology to promote reading and writing among Grade 8 learners.
Ten schools competed in digital challenges including a QR Code Reading Challenge, a main quiz, and a Reading for Meaning session.
The initiative not only boosts digital literacy but also introduces learners to higher education spaces and lifelong reading habits.
UJ and CoJLIS say their partnership aims to make learning more inclusive and digitally driven, opening new doors for future scholars.

France, Germany, Italy, Spain and other European nations have introduced a five-year multiple-entry Schengen visa aimed at enhancing cultural and professional mobility for African travellers.
Eligible applicants from countries like Nigeria and Ghana can now enter any of the 29 Schengen states multiple times, staying up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
The move is a game-changer for artists, cultural professionals and frequent travellers, easing the financial and administrative burden of repeated visa applications.
It enables African creatives to accept invitations, join residencies and perform at international festivals with fewer barriers.
While challenges remain in the application process, cultural organisations are hopeful this step will lead to fairer, more accessible global exchange.

The founder of Portia M, Portia Mngomezulu, joined family, friends and fans on Monday to celebrate 15 years since launching her skincare brand — a journey that began with marula oil and a mother-in-law’s advice.
At an intimate dinner at the DaVinci Hotel in Sandton, Mngomezulu reflected on starting her business after giving birth to her first child, calling the brand her second baby.
Hosted by Lerato Kganyago and featuring performances by Naledi Aphiwe, the night blended glamour, gratitude, and worship.
Despite early criticism of her packaging, Mngomezulu said customers always returned — a testament to the brand’s lasting impact.