Good News

BULLETIN 23 April 

Good afternoon, here is your Good News:

# The North-West University says its soon-to-be-established medical school will be honorifically named the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine. The decision was taken in consultation with and received the approval of the Archbishop Desmond Tutu IP Trust. The official naming ceremony took place yesterday in the presence of deputy Health minister Joe Phaahla. The university’s principal and vice-chancellor, professor Bismark Tyobeka, says the school will play a vital role in shaping the future of medicine:

# University of KwaZulu-Natal Bachelor of Arts student, Anelisa Ngubane, is encouraging students to embrace the opportunity of studying abroad with an open heart and mind. The 23-year-old recently spent a semester abroad at the University of Tours in Tours, France. Ngubane, who is majoring in Digital Art and French, says the experience significantly enhanced her command of the language. She says not only has the experience improved her language skills, but it has also contributed to her personal and academic growth.

# Learners with Autism in under-resourced South African schools are benefiting from iSchoolAfrica’s Disability Inclusion iPad Learning Programme. Launched at Via Nova School in Pretoria, the initiative seeks to provide learners with adaptive tools that support communication, learning, and social development. Built-in iPad features and curated apps have helped learners overcome barriers without the need for costly devices. The programme currently supports 36 schools, including Dorothea Special School in the Western Cape, recognised as an Apple Distinguished School for its innovative use of technology in special needs education.

# Sixty-four-year-old Tania Morkel has surpassed her 64-thousand-rand fundraising goal after completing 38 of 64 planned Table Mountain climbs. The challenge honours the Wilderness Search And Rescue team who saved her life following a near-fatal fall in 2023. Despite setbacks, including illness and personal strain, Morkel says her determination remains strong. She aims to continue her mission with gratitude amid the support she has received up to this point.

# And finally: Today is World Book Day, a global celebration of books, authors, illustrators, and most importantly, readers. This year’s theme is Read Your Way: Diverse Books for Every Mind. United Nations agency UNESCO says the theme emphasises the importance of inclusion and diversity in reading. It encourages readers to explore different voices, perspectives, and cultures through literature, promoting empathy and global understanding. UNESCO says reading is more than just a pastime, it has the power to shape minds, enhance empathy, and improve well-being. 

Stay tuned for more news………….