News Bulletin of 23 October 2026, 7am

A team of University of South Africa students has developed a system that could help identify students at risk of falling behind with their studies.
The team, known as Solulu Elevate, won Unisa’s 2026 Hackathon with its artificial intelligence-powered prototype.
The system uses AI to flag warning signs such as missed assignments and reduced activity on online learning platforms, allowing lecturers to identify students who may need support.
Unisa has committed 100-thousand-rand towards further development and possible commercialisation of the system.
The intitution says it will run further assessment before the prototype can be implemented.

South African and American scientists have received a NASA award for research that could help protect South Africa’s unique biodiversity.
The BioSCape research team, made up of more than 150 scientists from over 40 institutions, was recognised for mapping biodiversity across the Greater Cape Floristic Region.
Using specialised instruments aboard NASA aircraft and surveys on the ground, researchers studied plant life, water systems and natural habitats.
The findings could help conservation organisations identify areas that need protection and make better decisions about managing South Africa’s natural resources.

Emerging filmmakers from Sebokeng and Sharpeville will get a chance to screen their work in their own communities through the My Kasie Film Screenings 2026 initiative.
The screenings taking place in November will give local audiences an opportunity to watch films made by filmmakers from their own communities.
Filmmaker Tshepo Brown says the initiative gives aspiring creatives a chance to improve their skills, adding that parental support is important in helping young people pursue their passion for film:
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