News Bulletin of 4 October 2026, 1pm

South Africa’s green ID book will no longer be valid from 31 March 2028 according to Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber. Production of the booklet will stop a year earlier, on the 31 March 2027.The 14.7 million people who still use only the green ID book will have 12 months to switch to a smart ID card. The department will also make smart ID cards available to **naturalised citizens, permanent residents and South Africans living abroad**. First-time applicants and people over 60 will continue to apply for free.

Benoni teenager Zonika Kleyn is using her own journey of building confidence to encourage other young girls to believe in themselves.The 17-year-old has launched **SHE DID THAT**, a podcast created by a teenager for teenagers. It shares the stories of girls achieving in academics, sport, culture and leadership, while also highlighting personal victories that may not come with a trophy or certificate. Zonika says overcoming a difficult period, rebuilding confidence, standing up for yourself or finding the courage to start again are achievements worth celebrating.
The podcast gives young girls a platform to share their stories, celebrate everyday achievements and encourage others to believe that they can overcome challenges and succeed too.

More than 340 young scientists from South Africa and 14 other countries gathered in Johannesburg for the 2026 Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Fair.The event brought together 316 South African participants from all nine provinces and 24 international participants to showcase research, exchange ideas and explore solutions to real-world challenges.Acting CEO of the Eskom Development Foundation Mologadi Motshele has this to say: