Good News

BULLETIN 23 June

Good afternoon, here is your Good News:

# Today is International Women in Engineering Day, celebrating the achievements of female engineers and their contributions to shaping the world. This day also highlights the importance of inclusion and encourages more girls and women to pursue careers in engineering. According to the Global Gender Gap Report 2023, women comprised only 29.2-percent of the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics workforce. The Women’s Engineering Society says it also celebrates companies that are making great strides towards creating a more diverse and gender equal industry.

# Rhodes University has honoured associate professor, Lausanne Olvitt, with the vice-chancellor’s Distinguished Senior Teaching Award. This is for her contributions to the institution’s Environmental Learning Research Centre. The university says Olvitt’s approach to education, characterised by reflexivity and a commitment to meaningful engagement, emphasises the qualities celebrated by this award. It adds that her contributions inspire students and colleagues, reinforcing Rhodes University’s commitment to excellence in teaching and learning.

# The North-West University says it is firmly positioning itself as a globally engaged, innovative institution, committed to excellence and societal relevance. The latest Quacquarelli Symonds World University Rankings place the institution among the top eight universities in South Africa and in the top 16 in Africa. The ranking encompasses one-thousand-501 universities in 105 locations across the world. Deputy vice-chancellor for Teaching and Learning, professor Linda du Plessis, says the rankings show that the university’s strategic focus is aligned with global trends.

# The University of Cape Town’s Graduate School of Business and the Transport Education and Training Authority have launched a year-long digital boot camp for disadvantaged youth. Fifteen participants will be trained in data analytics, web development, and user experience design. The programme includes international immersions in Mexico City and Shenzhen, blending technical training with career support. UCT says this initiative will empower young people to thrive in a growing digital economy and boost employability.

# And finally: The City of Cape Town says as part of its annual winter school holiday programme, libraries and recreation facilities are ready to keep learners busy and active during the holidays. Alongside beloved favourites such as cosy indoor board-game corners, spirited chess tournaments and colourful arts and crafts stations, this year’s programme unlocks brand new experiences. Mayoral committee member for Community Services and Health, Francine Higham, says children will also be able to keep physically and mentally active during the holidays:

Stay tuned for more news………….