News Bulletin of 8 November 2025, 9am

Clearwater Mall in the West Rand has launched an on-demand sign language interpreting service making shopping easier and more inclusive for Deaf and hard-of-hearing customers.

Shoppers can now instantly connect via video call to a qualified South African Sign Language interpreter,
through a simple QR code, helping to bridge the communication gap between customers and mall staff all at no cost, and with no app or registration required.

Microsoft South Africa has officially launched a digital learning platform that offers flexible, mobile-friendly learning pathways in high-demand skills.

The initiative which is backed by a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Higher Education and Training, reinforces government’s commitment to digital transformation in education.

The platform offers learning tracks in cybersecurity, data analytics, software development, cloud computing and multimedia design.

The learning tracks offered through Ikamva Digital are designed to align with the demands of the global and local job market, preparing learners for the fastest-growing careers in the digital economy.

George mayor, Jackie von Brandis, and Western Cape Cultural Affairs and Sport MEC, Ricardo Mackenzie, launched the inaugural George Festival for Culture, Art and Sport.

The festival aims to foster inclusive community participation, stimulate the township economy, promote youth and arts development and activate the local economy.

The George municipality’s spokesperson, Chantel Edwards-Klose, says the festival will take place from the 13th to the 16th of December across multiple venues.