News Bulletin of 31 May 2026, 11am

The University of Johannesburg Choir has been selected to open the World Symposium on Choral Music 2026 in China. This is one of the most prestigious events in the global choral calendar. The Johannesburg-based choir is one of only 13 ensembles invited worldwide and the only African group on the programme, earning the honour of performing first at the symposium in August. Made up of students from across different academic fields, the choir is known for its award-winning performances, including gold medals at the World Choir Games.

South African researchers have been recognised in a NASA Group Achievement Award for a BioSCape project. This is a major international study mapping biodiversity in the Cape Floristic Region. The project brought together more than 150 scientists from 40 institutions worldwide. The research combines airborne NASA technology with ground-based field research to better understand ecosystems and climate impacts. Local teams from universities and conservation agencies played a key role in collecting and analysing data.

A boxing event in Randburg made history when a mother stepped into the ring to raise awareness for childhood illnesses. The white-collar boxing event was hosted by Warrior Mom, Shoneez Ganie, and took place at WeBox in Randburg. Fighters, sponsors and community supporters came together to shed light on the challenges faced by families dealing with childhood illnesses. The event highlighted the strength, resilience and determination of parents and children facing difficult health journeys.
The event transformed a boxing ring into a platform for hope and awareness, bringing communities together to support families affected by childhood illnesses and showing how one person's courage can inspire positive change.