Category: News

WCED Confirms Disciplinary Action at Milnerton High After Assault Incident

Posted on by
The Western Cape Education Department says it has been in close contact with Milnerton High School after a serious assault involving learners last week.

Upon learning of the incident, the school launched an internal investigation and identified those involved. Eight learners have since been placed on precautionary suspension, pending formal disciplinary hearings.

WCED spokesperson Bronagh Hammond says the suspensions are aimed at ensuring a fair and transparent process while prioritising the safety and wellbeing of all learners.

Counselling and psychosocial support are being provided to those affected, and the department has stressed that the school is following all required procedures.

In a statement on Facebook, the school said: "We want to make it clear that bullying, intimidation, and any form of assault cannot and will not be tolerated at Milnerton High School. These behaviours are completely contrary to the values of our school community and will always be dealt with firmly and fairly
Regarding the video that is circulating on social media, we urge our community and the public not to share it further, as it involves minors and has been shared without their consent. There are victims involved, and we must protect their rights. Our priority remains the safety, dignity, and well-being of all learners and staff. Teaching and learning continue as normal at Milnerton High School".

Meanwhile, Grade 12 learners at the school are in the middle of their National Senior Certificate examinations. The WCED says every effort is being made to ensure that learners can write their exams in a calm and secure environment.

The department says it remains committed to supporting the school community and taking appropriate action in line with policy and the law.

President Ramaphosa kicks off Southeast Asia visit with Indonesia State Visit

Posted on by
By Neo Bodumela

Jakarta, Indonesia – President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in Jakarta, Indonesia, for a State Visit to the Southeast Asian country.

The State Visit will kick off President Ramaphosa’s three-nation visit to the region, which will also include a State Visit to Vietnam and a working visit to Malaysia.

“[Today] President Ramaphosa commences in Indonesia with a State Visit at the invitation of His Excellency President Prabowo Subianto. President Ramaphosa will observe the Welcome Ceremony at the Merdeka Presidential Palace in Jarkata. The two leaders will hold a tête-à-tête, priming the subsequent official bilateral talks with respective ministerial delegations in support.

“President Ramaphosa will deliver opening remarks at the bilateral talks to encapsulate relations with Indonesia and further strengthen cooperation in areas of trade, agriculture, tourism and defence. This engagement aims to diversify trade in the face of global dynamics,” the Presidency said in a statement.
The two leaders are expected to hold a joint media briefing after the official bilateral talks.

A South Africa-Indonesia Business Forum was held before the President’s State Visit in a bid to strengthen trade between the two countries.

“Indonesia is the third largest trading partner of South Africa in the Southeast Asia region. President Ramaphosa will, on the margins of the State Visit, connect with leading Indonesian business leaders to expand trade and investment. 

“Both countries continue playing leading roles in developing and enhancing South-South Cooperation and continue to be locomotives of South-South Cooperation. Contemporarily, they are Member States of BRICS,” the Presidency said.

The relationship between the two countries dates back hundreds of years.

“SA-Indonesia relations go back more than 350 years - when the first people of Indonesian descent arrived in the Cape in the mid-1600s.

“Starting with the Bandung Conference of 1955, Indonesia became one of the fiercest critics of apartheid and supported the anti-apartheid struggle throughout. Formal diplomatic relations between Indonesia and SA were established in 1994,” the Presidency said.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Early Detection and Collaboration Save Lives

Posted on by
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and this year South Africa’s theme, “No One Should Face Breast Cancer Alone”, reminds us that early detection, support, and collaboration save lives.

In the Western Cape, about 1 500 new breast cancer cases are diagnosed annually, with primary health care being a critical first step. The prevalence of breast cancer is increasing in South Africa (and worldwide); women are diagnosed with more advanced breast cancer and have lower survival rates.

Therefore, women need to be diligent about their breast health and seek help early. Clinics play a crucial role in assessing and identifying warning signs and facilitating prompt referrals to sites for definitive diagnosis and further management.

Teams of professionals, including nurses, clerks, physiotherapists, genetic services, dietitians, radiographers, doctors, psychologists, social workers, and support staff, alongside community partners such as Reach for Recovery, Project Flamingo, and Pink Lady Apples (at Tygerberg Hospital), lead the fight against breast cancer and assist patients throughout their breast cancer journey.

Breast cancer is not just one disease, and every breast cancer patient needs to be treated individually, taking into consideration their physiology and the cancer characteristics.

To achieve this, every patient is discussed at weekly virtual multidisciplinary meetings across the service ecosystem (hosted by Tygerberg Hospital and Groote Schuur Hospital), which bring together surgeons, oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, genetic counsellors, and doctors from regional hospitals.

This provincial ecosystem approach to person-centred care, led by our healthcare teams, ensures that every patient’s treatment plan is tailor-made. As there are many types of breast cancer, different management approaches are needed. Most patients will need breast surgery, while some, but not all, require chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and/or endocrine treatment.

Early detection improves survival, so speak out about breast cancer, don’t fear what might be found, make time for breast self-examination, and seek help early. Look after your body; it has to carry you throughout your life.

“Early detection and treatment are the cornerstones of effective breast cancer care,” says Dr Sharon Čačala, Head of Breast and Endocrine Surgery at Tygerberg Hospital. Partnerships between primary care and hospital services help us identify patients sooner, personalise treatment, and improve survival rates. Multidisciplinary teamwork ensures no patient falls through the cracks.”

A Story of Strength: Ms Kulsum Abrahams
Ms Kulsum Abrahams (63) from Parow has been in remission for 10 years. In 2014, she experienced pain in her left breast; tests at Tygerberg Hospital confirmed cancer. She underwent surgery and chemotherapy, enduring hair loss, fatigue, and painful side effects.

Today, Ms Abrahams volunteers with Reach for Recovery, counselling other patients. She advises: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Know your body. Do self-exams regularly. Live a healthy lifestyle.”

She praises Tygerberg staff: “They are wonderful; you can ask them anything, and they’re always ready to assist.”

Where to Seek Help
Women who notice lumps or changes in their breasts should visit their nearest primary health care clinic or community health centre for free clinical screenings and referrals to higher levels of care.

Additional support:
Reach for Recovery (SA) – counselling and peer support
Project Flamingo – screenings and awareness
National Cancer Helpline – 0800 22 66 22 or https://cansa.org.za

Early action saves lives. Don’t wait, check today.

Safer Festive Season Operations Launched in the Garden Route

Posted on by
The Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General (Adv.) Thembisile Patekile, together with senior provincial police management, launched the Safer Festive Season Operations in the Garden Route District under Operation Shanela II on Tuesday, 21 October 2025.

The launch took place at the Rosemore Sport Stadium in George.

The event was attended by Deputy Provincial Commissioners Major General Luyanda Damoyi and Major General Bongani Maqashalala, the Executive Mayor of the Garden Route, Councillor Andrew Stroebel, as well as representatives from the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster, local government, municipal law enforcement, community safety structures, and members of the public.

Lt Gen Patekile inspected the resources already deployed while the SAPS band entertained the crowd. The operational readiness of police units was demonstrated through displays by the K9 and Public Order Police units.

The operations will include high-density policing, roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, and raids on illegal drug and liquor outlets, with a particular focus on entry and exit routes to the province.

Lt Gen Patekile reaffirmed SAPS’ zero-tolerance approach to crime and disorder during the festive season and beyond, thanking local authorities and community safety partners for their continued support in keeping communities safe.

Endangered plants seized by Springbok Police

Posted on by
The vigilance and alertness of members of Delta Platoon of Springbok Public Order Policing between 20 and 21 October 2025 led to the arrest of a suspect and the seizure of a substantial amount of protected plants.

While conducting foot patrols in the Springbok Central Business District, the members arrested a 44-year-old male for possession of endangered plant species.

The arrest was executed at a fuel station in Voortrekker Street in Springbok when the members conducted random stop and searches.

The male suspect was found in possession of a large amount of plants, valued at a substantial amount, concealed in a SASKO flour bag inside his travel bag.

The suspect is expected to appear in the Springbok Magistrate's Court soon.

The District Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews commended the members for their vigilance and also issued a stern warning to the public, that efforts will be enhanced with more boots on the ground as we are in the festive season period.

The police will not allow the trafficking, movement and smuggling of protected fauna and flora in the district inclusive of drugs, illegal firearms, stolen goods and illicit items.

Police will combat crime through decisive police action and robust community involvement during the festive period and beyond.

Smooth start to NSC exams in Gauteng

Posted on by
The first day of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations in Gauteng proceeded smoothly, said Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane.

“We are encouraged by the level of preparedness and commitment displayed across our examination centres on the first day of the NSC exams. Our teams acted swiftly where challenges arose, ensuring that every learner was able to write under fair and conducive conditions. 

“We are satisfied that these minor incidents did not compromise the integrity of the examination. The Department will continue to monitor all centres across Gauteng closely to ensure the smooth administration of this crucial assessment,” said MEC Chiloane.

In a statement on Tuesday, the provincial government said that all districts commenced their examinations as scheduled, without any disruptions or irregularities. 

“A total of 16 968 candidates sat for the 3-hour Computer Applications Technology (CAT) Paper 1 practical examination at 09:00 in the morning session. Only four centres recorded minor incidents, all of which were reported before any examination was in session and were promptly managed to ensure that no candidate was disadvantaged.”

According to the department, the Letsibogo Maths, Science and ICT School of Specialisation in Meadowlands, Soweto, reported a power outage in the area since Monday afternoon. 

The school swiftly implemented contingency measures by using a generator, allowing examinations to proceed without interruption. Accordingly, PJ Simelane Secondary School, also in Soweto, utilised a generator to mitigate similar power supply challenges in the area. Examinations proceeded smoothly at the centre as well.

At Liberty Community School in Bramley, a brief power delay made examinations to start slightly later than scheduled. However, the centre swiftly switched to solar backup, and all candidates completed their practicals successfully. 

At the Falcon Educational Centre in Dawn Park, 21 candidates were safely transported to a neighbouring examination centre to complete their practicals. This precautionary measure was implemented after a technical server challenge was detected before the start of the session.

The department further recorded minor absenteeism from both full-time and part-time candidates; however, the figures are not significant and do not detract from the overall successful start of the examination period in Gauteng. 

African penguin in Western Cape tests positive for bird flu

Posted on by
The first African penguin in the Western Cape has tested positive for bird flu.

The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) confirmed the case, saying about 1,000 seabirds have been infected so far. The penguin, found near Simon’s Town, showed severe neurological symptoms and had to be euthanized.

According to SANCCOB, this is the only confirmed penguin case, but the virus may already be present in nearby colonies. “It could be a mild outbreak or spread further, which would be devastating for African penguins,” said spokesperson Robyn Fraser-Knowles.

At least 30 bird flu cases have been reported this month among seabirds along the Cape coast, including gulls, cormorants, and terns. The Western Cape Agriculture Department first confirmed the highly pathogenic strain on a duck farm near Paarl in July.

The public is urged not to touch or approach sick birds, as the virus can infect humans, though symptoms are mild.

What the public should know:
✅ Report any sick or dead seabirds to SANCCOB immediately: 021 557 6155 or 078 638 3631. SANCCOB’s team is working hard to ensure an appropriate response for each affected bird and that every case is recorded and reported correctly
✅If the affected bird is not a seabird, use this form to report it to the state vet
❌ Don’t attempt to pick up or handle birds yourself.
❌ Keep your pets away from sick and dead birds

Minister Marais commends SAPS and LEAP for firearm confiscations

Posted on by
Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety Anroux Marais has extended her appreciation to the South African Police Service (SAPS), Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP) officers, and other law enforcement agencies for their ongoing and tireless efforts in removing illegal firearms and ammunition from our streets.

Minister Marais said, “Their recent string of successes is crucial in our collective fight against violent crime. Every gun confiscated matters. It is potentially a life saved, a crime prevented, and a community protected.”

In recent days, LEAP officers recorded notable achievements, including the arrest of two suspects in Samora Machel on 15 October 2025, after discovering a PX3 firearm and ammunition inside a residence.

Just two days later, LEAP officers arrested a suspect who attempted to conceal a firearm and ammunition in Tafelsig, Mitchells Plain. This was swiftly followed by the arrest of another individual who was in possession of a Taurus .38 special revolver and six live rounds during a routine vehicle stop on 19 October.

That same evening, LEAP officers patrolling Tafelsig apprehended a suspect who discarded a homemade "zip gun" containing a live 9mm police-issued round. These arrests are testament to the courage and diligence of the officers involved and the importance of persistent policing in known hotspots.

The SAPS also recorded successes across the Western Cape. In Elsies River, SAPS members arrested a suspect found with a firearm which had been reported stolen in Gordon’s Bay earlier this year. In Muizenberg, two illegal 9mm pistols and ammunition were confiscated from a suspect linked to an attempted murder case. 

Furthermore, the SAPS Anti-Gang Unit continues to make progress in the fight against gang-related crime. Notable recoveries in the past few days include:

*A cache of firearms – among them rifles, shotguns, pistols, and revolvers - and ammunition discovered during a joint operation in Langebaan;
*A 7.65 Browning pistol with ammunition found in Athlone;
*A Taurus G3XL with 9mm rounds and drugs discovered during patrols in Elsies River;
*A 9mm pistol and 110 rounds of ammunition seized in Manenberg; and
*A 9mm pistol found in Mitchells Plain.

Additionally, operations in Bishop Lavis, Steenberg, and Hanover Park resulted in arrests for firearm and drug-related offences.

A stolen Baretta 9mm pistol was also seized at a spaza shop in De Doorns, leading to the arrest of two individuals, and the retrieval of a shotgun in Worcester. Both cases were made possible through community tip-offs.

Minister Marais said, “I sincerely thank the brave and vigilant residents who came forward with information. You are our partners in this ongoing effort to reclaim our communities from criminal elements. I urge all residents to continue reporting illegal firearms and suspicious activity to law enforcement.”

“I call on SAPS to ensure that these arrests are followed by thorough investigations and prosecutions. Removing a firearm from our streets is only part of the solution; securing a conviction is what ultimately brings closure to victims and serves as a deterrent to others”, Minister Marais added.

Matric Exams kick off

Posted on by
The National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams for the Class of 2025 officially begin today.

The Western Cape Education Department has wished all matric candidates the very best for the exam period, extending gratitude to teachers and parents for their vital roles in preparing learners for this milestone.

The department praised matric teachers for their dedication and hard work in guiding learners through their final year, saying they have helped turn more than a decade of investment in education into success.

“Behind every dream realised is a teacher who believed", said Western Cape Education Minister David Maynier.

"We also thank our matric parents for all the support, care and love that they have provided to our learners throughout their school years".

The department called on communities across the province to support matrics during this critical time and to avoid any disruptions near schools.

Candidates were commended for their commitment in attending extra classes and using revision materials provided by schools and districts. Learners were also reminded to maintain healthy routines - including rest, good nutrition, and time management - to stay focused and calm during the exams.

“This is your time to shine,” Maynier said. “You’ve worked hard for the past 12 years, and now it’s time to focus and finish strong. We believe in you and look forward to celebrating your success in January.”

Woolworths Donates Over 500kg of Food As Cape Town Marathon Cancelled

Posted on by
As the official food sponsor of the 2025 Cape Town Marathon, Woolworths had prepared to fuel 24 000 runners with fresh produce and snacks at several points along the route — including the halfway mark and the finish line.

But when the marathon’s cancellation was announced at 4:45 a.m. on Sunday, the Woolworths team quickly shifted gears to make sure none of the food went to waste. By 10 a.m., all the supplies had been collected by 18 charities for distribution to those in need.

In total, Woolworths had organised 26 000 bananas, 20 000 Clemengolds, 280 kg of potatoes, 10 kg of dried fruit, 5 000 apples, 4 800 dates, 1 800 sandwiches and 600 hot cross buns — all of the same Exceptional Quality customers expect from any Woolworths store.

Instead of refuelling runners, the nutritious food ended up nourishing communities across Cape Town — ensuring that every item found a home and nothing went to waste.

Woolworths Chief Customer Officer and keen runner, Spencer Sonn, said:

“I had planned to be at the Woolies nutrition point at the halfway mark to support the athletes, especially our many Woolies employees who were running this year. Naturally, I was disappointed to hear about the cancellation — I know how much effort and dedication each runner put in. The silver lining is that orphanages, old-age homes and soup kitchens across Cape Town could benefit from the wholesome food. That’s truly the Woolworths Difference in action!”

Woolworths’ commitment to sustainability and community upliftment forms part of its Good Business Journey. In the past year alone, the retailer donated over 800 000 kg of surplus food to South African charities — a clear reflection of its ongoing mission to be one of the world’s most responsible retailers.
error: eRadio is protected !
Scroll to Top