News Bulletin of 20 August 2025, 5pm

Shinchonji Church of Jesus volunteers held a community outreach in Bram Fischer, Randburg, combining a blood drive with mental health awareness.
Residents, volunteers, and local leaders took part, with participants encouraged to donate blood, which can save up to three lives per donation.
Pamphlets on mental health were distributed, and organisers hope to include full health check-ups at future events.
Ward 99 councillor Hendrik Burdenstine praised the initiative for promoting both physical and mental wellbeing. The outreach reflects the group’s ongoing commitment to service and community care.

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has reaffirmed her department’s commitment to practical solutions that deliver measurable improvements in education.
Speaking at the Western Cape Education Indaba under the theme “Putting Children First,” she said South Africa’s role during its G20 Presidency was to turn global debates into real change in classrooms from Khayelitsha to the Karoo.
The minister stressed the importance of quality foundational learning and ongoing teacher development, inspired by global best practice but rooted in local realities.
Delegates also highlighted early childhood development and teacher support as key to building an inclusive and future-fit education system.

In Johannesburg, grandmothers and community leaders, known as gogos, were empowered with essential digital and mobility skills at an event hosted by inDrive and goGOGOgo.
Participants received hands-on training in smartphone navigation and ride-hailing basics, helping them move safely and independently.
The initiative also provided starter kits including smartphones, blankets, and handmade bags, supporting both technology use and local income-generation.
With plans for more sessions later this year, the programme aims to bridge the digital and transport divide for older women, recognising their critical role in South African families and communities.