News Bulletin of 9 August 2025, 11am

A recent PhD graduate from the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Humanities is hoping to use her research skills to help large numbers of South Africans gain access to over-the-counter hearing aids.

The graduate serves as a part-time Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, where her work focuses primarily on research.

Doctor Megan Koetze says her interest in audiology stems from a deep-seated desire to improve access to hearing healthcare.

Her goal is to make hearing aids more accessible without the lengthy and expensive processes that often keep them out of reach for many.

The Gauteng Department of Education has vowed to remain committed to ensuring a safe, transparent, and supportive learning environment across all public schools in the province.

The department outlined key interventions and progress made in addressing school safety concerns, including the expansion of first aid and disaster readiness programmes and the enforcement of school-based safety compliance.

The Department also conducted disaster management training for school staff across all districts, including firefighting and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment.

The eThekwini Metro has made history as the first municipality in South Africa to secure approval to generate its own electricity.

The city will now move ahead with plans to procure power from independent producers, with the project set to deliver 400 megawatts to the local grid once complete.

Electricity Minister Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa announced the milestone during a joint media briefing with eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba in Durban.