News Bulletin of 9 December 2025, 2pm

Hirsch’s Fourways hosted a series of festive gingerbread decorating sessions for children from local charities.
The events, held across multiple Hirsch’s stores in Fourways, offered the children decorating kits, dedicated spaces, and warm engagement from staff and volunteers.
The initiative aimed to bring joy and creativity to children who may otherwise miss out on the magic of Christmas, ensuring each child felt celebrated and included.
Sessions featured fun activities and treats, providing memorable experiences for the young participants during the festive season.

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the Presidential Employment Stimulus has created more than two million earning opportunities since it began in 2020.
Speaking at the ANC’s National General Council in Boksburg, he highlighted the Basic Education Employment Initiative as a major contributor, with more than one million school assistant placements for young people.
He said education and skills reform must remain central to tackling poverty and unemployment, and called for changes to the skills system so it better matches the needs of the economy.

Olive ridley sea turtles are making a significant comeback along India’s western coastline. Recent reports show about 1 million nests counted this year, ten times more than two decades ago.
At the Velas Turtle Festival, visitors watched baby turtles make their way to the sea. Conservationists protect nests from predators and guide hatchlings safely to the water.
Experts say the rebound is due to coastal protections, seasonal fishing bans, and cleaner beaches.
The species remains Vulnerable, but the increase in nests demonstrates the impact of dedicated conservation efforts, reflecting similar recoveries for green sea turtles worldwide.