News Bulletin of 20 November 2025, 5pm

The 24SumMore Maths Competition finals at Peregrine Capital’s Sandton offices brought together 18 learners from 54 Gauteng primary schools. The competition makes maths fun and interactive, rewarding speed, creativity, and problem-solving.
Olwethu Ndebele won first place, Talea Papa second, and Kemoratile Nyundu third. Winners received investment accounts valued between R10 000 and R25 000, with all finalists getting R5 000 each.
Their schools were also recognised, and one teacher received an iPad.
The pilot’s success means the programme will expand nationally in 2026, giving more learners across South Africa the chance to build confidence, enjoy maths, and develop skills that will help them in school and beyond.

The South African Reserve Bank has ended the year on a positive note with a 25 basis point cut to the repo rate.
This brings the rate to 6.75 percent and offers welcome relief for households and businesses. Governor Lesetja Kganyago says the improved inflation outlook, supported by a stronger rand and lower oil price assumptions, created room for a less restrictive stance.
South Africa remains on track to reach its three percent medium term inflation target.

A new study by the French Breeding Bird Survey indicates that insect-eating bird populations in France are showing early signs of recovery following the 2018 European Union ban on neonicotinoid pesticides.
Researchers observed a 2–3% increase in species such as blackbirds, blackcaps, and chaffinches, suggesting that limiting these bee-harming chemicals is having a positive effect.
While experts note that full recovery may take decades due to the persistence of pesticides in soil and other environmental pressures, the findings offer hope that policy changes can make a measurable difference for wildlife.
The research also points to potential benefits for other insect-dependent animals and underscores the importance of sustainable farming practices in protecting biodiversity.