News Bulletin of 5 December 2025, 4pm

iSchoolAfrica, an initiative of the iStore and the CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa, held an event on December 3 in Sandton to mark the International Day for Persons with Disabilities.
The event highlighted how the programme is using Apple technology to improve access to learning for disabled learners in under-resourced and special-needs schools.
iPads with accessibility features, along with teacher and therapist training, are helping non-verbal learners communicate and supporting deaf learners in the classroom.
iSchoolAfrica says it plans to expand to more schools and explore how new technology, including AI, can further support learners with disabilities.

West Wits Mining has opened Qala Shallows, the first new underground gold mine in South Africa in 15 years, bringing gold mining back to the Witwatersrand, just 15 kilometers from Johannesburg’s central business district.
CEO Rudi Deysel says the mine shows South Africa can still build safe, modern operations that create long-term value for the economy and local communities.
Qala Shallows is expected to contribute over R19.5 billion, or 1.15 billion dollars, over 17 years, producing 70,000 ounces annually for 12 years. It will create more than 1,000 direct jobs and support economic activity in surrounding communities.
Mining the site was previously unprofitable at low gold prices, but with current rates near 4,000 dollars an ounce, the shallow mine from surface to 850 meters deep is now highly profitable.

The last of three consecutive supermoons in 2025 will be visible tonight, December 5, in South Africa and across much of the world.
A supermoon happens when the full Moon reaches perigee, its closest point to Earth, making it appear about 8% larger than a typical full moon.
The Moon can look even bigger near the horizon due to the Moon illusion, and its closeness may create slightly higher tides along coastlines.
This December full moon is called the “Cold Moon,” a name given by Native American tribes, reflecting the season and natural events such as frost and deer shedding their antlers.