News Bulletin of 30 September 2026, 5pm

University of Pretoria professor Elsabe Kearsley and her students have developed sustainable cement and concrete aggregates using construction waste destined for landfills in Johannesburg and Tshwane.
The materials include steel slag, fly ash, plastics, polystyrene and crushed bricks, which can be used to produce strong, lightweight concrete.
The research has already resulted in several patents and could support more sustainable construction while reducing waste.

Takealot, Services SETA and the Department of Higher Education and Training have launched a R103 million partnership to help young South Africans gain skills and workplace experience.
The programme aims to create 20,000 income generating opportunities through training in delivery services, digital skills, entrepreneurship and small business development.
It will also provide work integrated learning for TVET students, critical skills bursaries and driver development programmes.

Wits University is developing a R341 million Cultural Precinct on the south eastern edge of its Braamfontein campus, with construction expected to take five years.
The project will connect the Wits Art Museum, Chris Seabrooke Music Hall and Wits Theatre with new exhibition and performance spaces, expanded music and fine arts facilities and a theatre amphitheatre.
Restaurants, coffee shops and bookshops will also form part of the precinct, which is designed to open more of Wits’ creative spaces to the public and contribute to the regeneration of Johannesburg.
Most of the funding will come from shares donated by Wits alumnus Chris Seabrooke through the Seabrooke Family Trust, with Wits contributing the balance.