News Bulletin of 3 July 2025, 4pm

Johannesburg’s young creatives are reshaping live music, turning cosy venues into vibrant platforms for self-expression.
Spaces like Soundcheck, Mzansi NeoSoul, Hidden Spaces, and Nairowbi’s branches are giving local artists a stage to connect, grow, and be heard.
Born from passion, these artist-led platforms offer more than gigs — they’re nurturing a community and a culture of appreciation for live performance.
Despite challenges, founders remain committed to keeping these spaces intimate and authentic, giving voice to South Africa’s rising musical talent.

Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane has announced a bold R3 billion investment to support students in critical skills fields, reaffirming government’s commitment to youth empowerment and education.

Speaking at the National Skills Fund (NSF) Budget Vote Breakfast in Cape Town, Nkabane highlighted funding for students from disadvantaged schools and the “missing middle”, as well as expanded support for postgraduate study and agricultural training.

Over 300 students are now studying abroad in fields like AI and nuclear engineering, with government aiming to produce 5 000 PhDs a year.

She urged youth to become ambassadors of change, saying the initiative will not only uplift individuals, but transform entire communities.

The Social Media Summit for Government, now in its third year, partnered with the University of Johannesburg to unite public sector communicators and digital leaders at JBS Park.
Held from 30 June to 1 July 2025, the event focused on “Power Shift: Understanding Technology, Connecting Citizens and Redefining Digital Engagement.”
Prof Tankiso Moloi, UJ’s Executive Dean, opened the summit stressing the importance of ethical communication in building public trust.
Lorato Tshenkeng, CEO of Decode Communications, highlighted how digital platforms shift power to citizens as advocates and amplifiers, warning against disinformation.
Tshwane Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya urged transparent, accessible communication as the foundation of democracy.
The summit featured talks on civic tech, AI, and crisis communication, aiming to reshape government-citizen interaction.