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The ANC defends Fikile Mbalula’s use of a private boat to Robben Island, stating it was a practical decision for a busy campaign schedule. The party refutes claims of luxury and unethical conduct, emphasizing the necessity of logistical arrangements. Mbalula’s previous controversial transport choices were also mentioned.
Matric pupils who wrote the 2024 NSC exams through the IEB achieved a pass rate of 98.47%, slightly higher than 2023’s 98.46%. Candidates achieved an 89.37% Bachelor’s pass rate. 16,304 candidates wrote the exams at 275 centres. Nine Midstream College candidates excelled, with distinctions in Life Orientation.
Minister Siviwe Gwarube announces 2024 matric results by province. Top achievers pose with Minister and Deputy Minister. Key commitments for improvement in 2025 include universal access to quality ECD programs by 2030 and support for teachers.
Fierce winds ease in Los Angeles, but largest wildfire shifts direction, prompting new evacuations. Six wildfires devastate LA County, killing 11 and damaging 10,000 structures. Palisades Fire flares up, prompting evacuation orders for Brentwood neighborhood. Firefighters make progress but struggle to contain fires, which have consumed 35,000 acres.
The awarding of Nobel prizes in chemistry and physics to Google-affiliated AI pioneers has sparked debate over research dominance and recognition in computer science. Google faces competition from Microsoft-backed OpenAI and regulatory scrutiny. Critics question the physics Nobel for AI breakthroughs, suggesting a need for a Nobel in mathematics or computer science. Concerns over Big Tech’s influence on AI research and the need for greater public investment are raised.
IEB reports 98.47% pass rate, 100% university entrance for Redhill School in Johannesburg. 16,304 pupils wrote exams, monitored for integrity. Class of 2024 praised for resilience amid Covid-19 challenges. Technology’s impact on education highlighted. Redhill School celebrates students’ achievements and leadership qualities.
South Africa’s rand hits nine-month low against the dollar following strong US jobs data, raising concerns of further decline. Rand breached 19 to the dollar for the first time since June, trading at 19.12 per dollar in Johannesburg. It was the worst-performing major currency against the dollar on Friday.
Three men arrested in connection with human trafficking ring after 26 Ethiopian nationals rescued in Gauteng. Hawks, police, and other agencies raided Sandringham home following tip-off. 15 undocumented nationals found naked in the house, 11 near the property. Dozens escaped. One victim linked to Benoni kidnapping case. Suspects demanded R180,000 ransom. Victims receiving medical treatment. Court appearance set for Monday.
Yellow level 5 alert issued for Limpopo and Mpumalanga due to disruptive rainfall, potential flooding, property damage, and traffic disruptions. Severe weather alerts for Monday include thunderstorms, fire danger warnings in various provinces. Localized flooding expected in Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and Eastern Cape. Severe thunderstorms forecasted in North West and Free State. High fire danger conditions in Northern Cape, North West, and Free State.
President Ramaphosa prioritizes tackling South Africa’s water crisis in 2025, comparing it to past power shortages. He emphasizes urgency in addressing the issue to prevent further escalation. Challenges include inadequate infrastructure, corruption, illegal connections, water scarcity, and climate change. Reports highlight poor water quality nationwide. Experts warn of severe risks to the country’s future.
