News Bulletin of 29 May 2025, 3pm

Professor Helen Rees received the World Health Organization’s prestigious Dr Lee Jong-wook Memorial Prize this week for her outstanding contributions to global health.
Based at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, Rees has dedicated her career to addressing major health challenges including HIV, tuberculosis, cervical cancer, and improving access to medicines in low- and middle-income countries.
She calls for a new global health model focused on smarter investments in immunisation, maternal and child health, and the use of innovative technologies such as digital health and AI.
Known for connecting research, policy, and community care, she remains a leading figure in vaccine development and health innovations serving the most vulnerable worldwide.

South Africa’s technical education is getting a global lift. Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane says the country’s TVET colleges are key to unlocking opportunity — and they’re now better equipped to do so.

She welcomed a R13 million donation of advanced training gear from China’s Yalong Group during a visit to Orbit College in the North West, calling it an investment in young people’s futures.

At a G20 seminar in Sun City, Nkabane pushed for global recognition of South African qualifications — opening doors for work, study and growth beyond borders.

Deputy Minister Mimmy Gondwe marked Africa Day by calling for education that empowers youth and women across the continent.

Rand Water has begun a major maintenance programme that could see taps running dry in parts of Ekurhuleni, Tshwane, and Mpumalanga from today.
The project will continue in phases until Monday, affecting areas in Mpumalanga, North West, and the Free State.
The utility says the maintenance is essential to boost system capacity and ensure long-term water stability.
During the outages, water tankers will be deployed to support affected communities.
Residents are urged to prepare for possible water interruptions.