Stories from South Africa

Two members of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) board have resigned. The Higher Education and Training Department stated that Minister Manamela has initiated formal engagements with the remaining board members. A spokesperson for Manamela confirmed that Dr. Maluleke has formally stepped down. This departure follows previous resignations that have significantly reduced the number of remaining voting members. The reduction in board members has raised concerns regarding the board's ability to fulfill its statutory and fiduciary responsibilities. Board member Karabo Mohale also resigned from the organization. The resignations follow reported organizational challenges flagged by Mohale. The resignations contribute to ongoing leadership instability at the agency. The board cited study commitments and personal circumstances as reasons for the departures.

Basic Education Minister Sevewe Guachube flagged a textbook tender for grades one to three in Soshanguwe. A News24 investigation reported the tender was worth more than 200 million rand.

By-elections will take place in the Western Cape today in two locations. In Uniondale's Ward 25, the ANC, DA, EFF, and PA will contest the election following the resignation of ward councillor Jacques Issaou from the ANC to join the DA.

Markudu Sifara, Chairperson of the South African National Editors' Forum (SANEF), has decided to step aside. The decision follows an investigation into allegations regarding the misappropriation of lottery funds.

At least four oil tankers arrived in Cape Town this month to discharge approximately 105,000 tons of refined products. The cargo includes diesel, gasoline, and other related petroleum products.

A teacher reportedly beat a child with a rod so severely that the child required surgery. The teacher allegedly threatened the child at the hospital, according to a report from Johannesburg. The source noted the incident is distinct from discussions regarding corporal punishment.

South Africa has deployed Deputy President Dr. Tizaka to assist teachers facing high stress levels due to mistreatment by students. The move follows escalating reports of unsafe conditions in schools.

The independent South African national civic organization, Sanco, is calling for the government to reinstate corporal punishment. The organization stated that the measure is needed. The topic is described as a frequent subject of debate within the country.

Authorities recovered a car from a river after finding it empty upon arrival. A preliminary investigation identified the vehicle owner as a 59-year-old man residing in Vanderbilt Park, Gauteng.

Electricity cuts at a main hospital in South Africa have impacted medical operations. The outages, which lasted two to three days last month, affected patients in critical condition requiring oxygen. Some patients lost their lives due to the power failures, according to a doctor. The situation is linked to rising fuel prices caused by the war in the Middle East.