Concern for learner’s safe return mounts
Kidnappingcaselingers
TEBOHO SETENA
The frantic search for the kidnapped Kamogelo Baukudi (19), a learner of the Martie du Plessis School in Bloemfontein, continues
The school, based in Fichardt Park, takes in learners with cerebral palsy, physical disabilities, and learning disabilities
A task team is continuing with a full-scale investigation to ensure the learner is found and reunited with his parents, with the police actively seeking all possible clues This includes investigating any potential suspects or witnesses
Thus far, the police have discovered the cellphones of both Kamogelo and his driver, Daniel Malebatso According to the police, these items were
found disposed of under the bridge in Ferrera Road
Kamogelo’s disappearance has caused widespread concern in the community What has added to that concern is the possible connection of a 42-year-old police sergeant in the brazen kidnapping of the learner on Thursday, 5 June, after school
The officer is set to reappear in the Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 13 June, after a brief appearance in court on Monday, 9 June He is facing charges of kidnapping and extortion Initially, a case of kidnapping and impersonating a police officer was opened at the Bloemfontein Park Road Police Station on the day of the reported kidnapping Mojalefa Senokoatsane, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Free State, said the state body remained committed to
ensuring that all individuals who violate the law, including those entrusted with upholding it, are held accountable through a fair and transparent legal process
Kamogelo was allegedly taken by two unknown men, one wearing a police uniform and the other a blue tracksuit According to the police, this was shortly after his driver (Malebatso) had fetched him
The police reported that the driver, whilst driving along Vereeniging Drive in the Erlichpark Extension, purportedly heard a siren from behind their vehicle, and were pulled over by a white double cab Toyota Hilux GD-6
According to the information the driver provided to the police, the bakkie was fitted with blue lights on the grill and what looked like a police radio inside
Lt Col Thabo Covane, provincial
police spokesperson, said the kidnappers reportedly used drugs as a ploy He said the suspects confronted Malebatso and informed him that the Suzuki Ertiga he and Kamogelo were travelling in was suspected of delivering drugs Covane said the two suspects spoke Sotho fluently and purportedly separated Kamogelo and the driver
Malebatso, instructed to drive to the Park Road Police Station while the suspects followed him, lost track of the suspects’ vehicle on the way The head of the Department of Education in the Free State, Adv Tsoarelo Malakoane, visited the school on Monday
Francois van Heerden, headmaster of Martie du Plessis, expressed his gratitude to the department for their support, as well as the investigative efforts by the SAPS
Kamogelo Baukudi
Photo: Supplied
Value of African language asserted
The University of the Free State’s (UFS) contribution to South Africa’s linguistic heritage continues with the launch of the Dictionary for Sesotho Sa Leboa, also known as Sepedi or Northern Sotho
This ambitious project is the culmination of a collaborative effort by the UFS Library in partnership with the Faculty of the Humanities and the Academy for Multilingualism
A host of contributors were at work to bring this vital resource to fruition
The university celebrated the achievement by hosting events on both the Bloemfontein and Qwaqwa campuses on 29 and 30 May - accentuating the university's deep commitment to the preservation and promotion of indigenous languages
Prof Prince Ngobeni, campus principal in Qwaqwa, articulated the profound significance of the dictionary ’ s launch in his address “This mark a truly historic moment not just for the university, but for the entire nation and – most especially –for the rich tapestry of our linguistic heritage
The officially launch is a monumental achievement, this dictionary for Sesotho Sa Leboa”
His words resonated with the distinguished audience, which included the dean of the Faculty of the Humanities, Prof Mogomme Masoga, members of the University Executive, academics, researchers, linguists, educators, students, and esteemed members of the Royal family, whose presence significantly elevated the
occasion
Dr Elias Malete, head of the Department of African Languages, expressed immense gratitude for the launch of the dictionary, highlighting its importance for the academic community and the broader society
The visionary behind the dictionary, Solomon Motlokwane, a retired teacher, shared some insight from his journey In an inspiring presentation, he encouraged young people to transcend the traditional pursuit of employment and instead become creators of opportunities “Be yourself and you will prosper, " he advised - a powerful message of self-reliance and
innovation that resonated deeply with the audience
Prof Jared McDonald, assistant dean of the Faculty of the Humanities, delivered a poignant message of support, acknowledging the collective efforts that made the dictionary possible He took a moment to reflect on the recent passing of Ngügï wa Thiong'o, one of Africa's greatest intellectual sons
“His life’s work was a passionate call to centre African languages in scholarship, in literature, and in daily life,” McDonald noted “He reminded us that language is not neutral, but it is political, cultural,
Reckless drivers reined in
The Mangaung Metro
Municipality is hard at work to uproot a culture of deliberate disregard of the rule of law by motorists
The issuing of fines for impounded vehicles has reportedly generated a significant revenue of about R12,6 million
According to Gregory Nthatisi, executive mayor, the revenue collected is for the past two years He revealed this during the presentation of the metro’s budget on 27 May
On Wednesday, 4 June, a traffic officer was photographed while on patrol, writing out a fine to a motorist who had parked in a prohibited zone in First Avenue, attesting to the continuous efforts in enforcing the law in the city A traffic officer,preparing a fine for a motorist found parked at a prohibited zone in First Avenue,illustrating the work that goes into enforcing the law in the city
Child safety remains a priority
With Child Protection Week observed from 29 May to 5 June, the role families play in ensuring the safety and well-being of children has been in the spotlight Families South Africa (Famsa) believes that a strong family unit fosters a safe environment where children can grow and thrive
Also, this emphasises that parents and caregivers play a vital role in teaching children about their rights, setting boundaries, and ensuring they are protected from abuse and neglect
Ways families can protect their children, as suggested by Famsa, include:
■ Establish a daily check-in routine where children feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns For example, having a "safe space" conversation at dinner where everyone talks about their day without judgment
■ Teach children about personal boundaries using age-appropriate books or role-play-
ing scenarios For instance, explaining the concept of "safe touch" and "unsafe touch" and encouraging them to speak up if they feel uncomfortable
■ Set up parental controls on devices and monitor online activity to ensure children are engaging with safe content
■ Create a "gratitude jar" where family members write positive notes to each other Another way is ensuring children have access to counselling or support groups if they face emotional challenges
■ Keep an eye out for and participate in local child protection workshops when these are presented in your area Parents and guardians can only benefit from the acquisition of new skills and approaches
Families, schools, and communities must work together to create a culture of protection and advocacy for children's rights, Famsa believes Every child deserves a safe and loving home By taking proactive steps, families can foster a future where every child feels safe, valued, and empowered
For more information on how children can be better shielded, contact Famsa (toll free) on 0800 014 520
and deeply personal He believed that to write in one ’ s own language is to reset one ’ s humanity”
McDonald emphasised that Thiong ’ o ’ s legacy lives on in every effort to preserve, teach, and elevate African languages, positioning the new dictionary as a living tribute to his profound vision
This sentiment aligns perfectly with the UFS' Vision 130, which champions excellence in research, innovation, and community engagement, with a strong emphasis on fostering an inclusive and multilingual academic environment
The launch of the dictionary is a
tangible manifestation of Vision 130's commitment to intellectual contribution and societal impact, particularly in the realm of cultural preservation and academic advancement of indigenous languages
“This kind of scholarly work is not produced overnight,” said McDonald He added, “It requires sustained collaboration, institutional support, and deep commitment from all of us toward linguistic accuracy, cultural sensitivity, and educational relevance The launch of the dictionary stands as a testament to this unwavering commitment and a beacon for future linguistic endeavours at the UFS”
A feast of culinary delights
LIENTJIE MENTZ
From the melt-in-your-mouth rhebok to the exotic taste of crocodile, attendants at the De Oude Kraal WildsKOSfees had a front row seat to the best game meat the Free State has to offer
The annual WildsKOSfees welcomed 2 004 guests on Saturday, 7 June, along with a big team of volunteers who prepared every dish to perfection
This year was a highlight, being the 25th feast held
During the very first WildsKOSfees held by Gerhard and Marie Lombard, only 30 guests attended
On Saturday, each of the stations where guests could taste dishes from as many as 16 species of game, as well as salads and splendid sauces, were remarkable
One can only marvel at the preperation that went in ahead of the festival, with over 4 tonnes of meat prepared for the event
For the gourmets who trekked from station to station, sighting a side dish of preserved broccoli stems or almond chutney, the taste tour was a delight
Deserving of praise, the offering of perfectly prepared meat was made possible by the volunteers who took their jobs seriously Whether it was rhebok carpaccio or lamb tail dipped in a white chololate and chilli sauce, each bite was perfect
VIP guests, along with Marie and her team, had the chance to taste how some of the country’s best wines paired with certain dishes
With the winter chill and entertainment by artists like Belinda and Amy, Herman Kleinhans, Jacobus Silwer and many more, the attendees surely had a good time
A BloemExpress reader who won tickets to the festival, Thafeni Ncamane, noted how he enjoyed it “This was an amazing experi-
an opportunity to learn – it was eye-opening” Ncamane said it was an unforgettable day “It was my first time at this wonderful event,” he said
Photo: Teboho Setena
Language enthusiasts celebrate the launch of the dictionary of the Sesotho sa Leboa Photo: Supplied
ence,
Some of the volunteers are,from the left,Herman van Wyk,George Briedenhann, Colette van Huyssteen and Albertus Teseling Photo: Lientjie Mentz
Galaletsang Melamu (left,Chef Dona) with Deon Barnard (BloemNews) at this year’s De Oude Kraal WildsKOSfees Photo: Lientjie Mentz
Thafeni Ncamane (left) won tickets to attend the De Oude Kraal WildsKOSfees by entering a competition on the Facebook page of BloemExpress Here he is with a friend,Morena Ncamane. Photo: Supplied
Library wheel
The 1 000 beneficiaries of AVBOB Road to Literacy c have been announced
This project, in collabor with Oxford University Pr Africa, is a nationwide tro initiative
It continues to improve books in communities ac Africa, with a focus on sch non-profit organisations ( The announcement abo beneficiaries was made at hosted in Sandton, Johan 29 May
The project addresses t challenges of low literacy meracy levels at foundatio providing culturally and l relevant materials in all 11 written languages
This year ’ s campaign re stantial growth from the 1 trolleys distributed in its i year, 2022
Each of the 1 000 mobil includes 500 books from O University Press SA, selec port literacy and numerac alignment with the Curric Assessment Policy Statem curriculum
The total number of bo uted this year will exceed from 250 000 in 2024
Each library is valued a bringing the total investm 2025 campaign to R57 mi The trolleys are designe
FOCUS ON: EC
Hair therap
The product to solve a ran hair-related issues includ itchy scalp is now at you Intended for men and w More Knocking has been tested to ensure
HIKES SET
While the Mangaung Metro Municipality’s (MMM) service delivery remains a concern, the municipality’s hikes for basic services, property rates, water and sanitation for the current fiscal term will be implemented on 1 July
These range from 4,4% to 11% as announced by the executive mayor, Gregory Nthatisi, during the budget presentation for the metro on 27 May
Property rates, water, sanitation and refuse collection are core of the metro’s operational budget The municipality’s ability to render these basic services is subject to the challenge of defaulting payments, by residents and business, and government departments
Nthatisi said the municipality has intensified the effort by introducing the Debt Incentive Package that is aimed at encouraging customers to pay for services, and relieve household debt Teboho Setena
oast to excellence
across the Free oured for their a glamorous event iversity of Free Novus Media
nt will take place on ber, at the Monte de Bloemfontein yl, general manager ommunity News nd Northern Cape, hip allows Novus t and celebrate vements while connection between munities netball player it will once again ceremonies and Rethabile Mol radio presenter e University of the Louzanne Coetzee, e medals at the s and was named ar of the Year, will be e speaker ally impaired athlete, al in the T11 category e and a bronze medthon at the 2020 s held in Tokyo She nze medal in the T11, 2024 Paralympic ris ovide a vital ur the remarkable our studentState stars,” says or of KovsieSport,
■ Keep an eye on Novus Media’s community newspapers in the Free State –BloemNuus, BloemExpress, Vista, and VrystaatKroon – for more information about this year ’ s nominations and other details about the 2024 Sports Star of the Year awards event
The evening’s proceedings will begin at 18:00 for 18:30
Tickets cost R480 for a single ticket or R4 800 for a table of ten
Direct enquiries at Ainslee Oosthuyen at 074 120 4450, or send email to ainslee@spottedapple co za
Louzanne Coetzee,who was named the 2024 Sports Star of the Year,will be this year’s keynote speaker. Photos: Supplied
Former Protea netball player Vanes-Mari du Toit will be the master of ceremonies
Rethabile Moshounyane,local radio presenter and student will be the co-host alongside Vanes-Mari du Toit
Child art entries can inspire
LIENTJIE MENTZ
Young creatives have the opportunity to take part in the National Museum in Bloemfontein’s Free State Young Artist Award competition for 2025
It is open to Free State school learners aged five to 19 years old
This year ’ s theme challenges learners to rethink plastic pollution and its impact on wildlife and the environment
Learners at schools and art schools are invited to create works that explore the effects, challenges, and possible solutions to plastic pollution through creative expression
Participants are encouraged to use plastic or recycled materials in their creations
Works do not have to be traditional paintings or drawings
Entrants are welcome to use all forms of artistic interpretation, and can therefore create anything from two-dimensional pieces to threedimensional works and installations
The works should inspire change and raise awareness for a cleaner, safer future for both people and animals
Christo Venter of the National Museum says the museum is proud to use the arts as a tool for environmental education and awareness
“The Free State Young Artist Award competition provides a powerful platform for young creatives to speak on important issues and show the world what matters to them”
Venter says this annual event celebrates and nurtures the creativity of young Free State artists, while connecting them to real-world issues such as conservation and sustainability
Cash prizes are up for grabs, with a total of R11 350 awarded to winners in three age groups
Entries can be submitted until 2 August
Details and entry forms are available at the museum
Juvenility admired
TEBOHO SETENA
The Oliewenhuis Art Museum in Bloemfontein will mark this year’s Youth Day celebration on 16 June with the hosting of events featuring youths
This will be under the theme “A Celebration of Heritage, Creativity, and Reflection” in commemoration of the 49th anniversary of the 1976 Soweto Uprising, honouring the legacy of the young South Africans whose courage helped shape the country’s journey towards democracy
“Youth Day is a time to recognise the enduring impact of youth in South Africa’s past, present, and future Since its official declaration in 1994, Youth Day has become a powerful reminder of the pivotal role that young people continue to play in advocating for justice, equality, and freedom,” said Karen Marais, senior exhibition officer at the museum
To mark this important day, the museum will be open from 10:00 to 15:00 for a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and togetherness – affording youth the opportunity to showcase their creativity in visual to performance art The series of events ties with the exhibition Qula Kwedini, which closes on 16 June
A solo exhibition by Mzie Gojo, this features beau-
Prejudice is common
BONOLO MAHLATSI
Gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), and violence in general, have become an integral part of life for South African women.
Despite South Africa’s robust legal framework, policies, and strategic plans aimed at curbing GBVF, the plight is deeply rooted in societal norms
The epidemic South Africa is and has been facing is misogyny amplified, normalised with women violated and ostracised while already being vulnerable This normalisation of violence continued with Olorato Mongale’s brutal killing by a man she went on a first date with The unfortunate and untimely passing of Olorato is a stark reminder what the country has become for women Her body was found in Lombardy West in Johannesburg, less than two hours after she was picked up A postgraduate, Olorato’s qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the Rhodes University and a Teach English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate
tifully crafted artworks from cow dung (manure) It is still open for viewing for the public to glean life lessons from Gojo’s exhibition takes inspiration from the sacred song “Qula Kwedini” and incorporates culturally significant materials to create a tactile, immersive experience that bridges ancestral wisdom and contemporary social commentary
The event will also serve as the official opening of an educational exhibition, Learning through Art: Museum as Classroom It will be ongoing until 7 December this year
Marais said this exhibition draws from the Oliewenhuis Art Museum’s Permanent Collection and is especially designed to support the Gr 10 to Gr 12 Visual Art curriculum “With artworks by celebrated South African artists like Esther Mahlangu, Noria Mabasa, Pierneef, and Irma Stern, the exhibition transforms the museum into an interactive classroom, offering a chance to engage with key visual narratives and explore sociopolitical themes beyond the boundaries of the textbook,” said Marais Food, snacks, and refreshments will be available throughout the day Entrance is free, with on-site parking available for R10 per vehicle (cash only)
For more information, contact the Oliewenhuis Art Museum on 078 968 4300 or send an email to oliewen@nasmus co za
Young talent given platform
LIENTJIE
MENTZ
There were plenty of laughs, tears and joyous moments at this year ’ s St Michael’s Drama Festival – the English equivalent for the biannual Free State arts festival
Amanda van Eeden, organiser of the festival at the St Michael’s School for Girls, says they were amazed at the amount of entries
A whopping 1 400 learners from 20 schools across Bloemfontein competed in the festival, hosted from 19 to 22 May
“We just wanted the learners to enjoy themselves,” Van Eeden said
“Yes, the prizes are important, but if they
have fun performing on the stage, then we have reached our goal”
Appart from schools, drama schools also entered
Participants were of the Brandwag Primary School, the Divine Elite School, Laerskool Dr C F Visser, Eduplus, Eunice, Laerskool Fichardtpark, Grey College (primary and secondary), Hoërskool Jim Fouché, Laerskool Kruitberg, Laerskool Olympia, Hoër Meisieskool Oranje, Laer Meisieskool Oranje, Laerskool Sand du Plessis, Hoërskool Staatspresident Swart, Laerskool Sentraal, the St Andrew’s School Bloemfontein, St Michael’s, Laerskool Willem Postma and the Petro Muller Studio
However, as if the murder of yet another young woman was not bad enough, it was unfortunate to read the comments posted on social media, such as “Why did she go out with a stranger?” and “Why did she not drive herself to the date?” The comments continued despite people learning about the safety measures Olorato had put in place, including sharing her location with friends
Another grim instance of femicide was that of Sbusiso Lawrence, a KwaZulu-Natal man who took a disturbing video of himself killing his partner in December 2024 Lawrence’s video, which he shared on social media, sparked outrage He attempted to justify his actions, saying he was triggered by being mistreated in their relationship He had blood on his face After confessing to killing his partner, he was later found dead – hanging from a tree near the murder scene
The normalisation there was in people asking “Why did she leave him? He was a good man?” And even when it was later revealed that he had previously attempted to “unalive” her, negative remarks were still passed about the victim
Again, we observed social media comments that her actions provoked his behaviour, which led to her death Social media commentary is an invisible finger-pointing exercise that serves to blame women Such behaviour normalises and perpetuates violence against women
There is advice cautioning women to avoid becoming victim: Do not walk alone at night, or wear provocative clothing or short skirts Sadly, the same cautions are not used against men to say they should not violate women These unfortunate incidents show that social media has become a breeding ground for victim-blaming This has become a normative part of our thinking that goes unchallenged Social media commentary that pushes the victim-blaming narrative fosters a culture of negativity on social media and only adds salt to the wound These narratives pushed through social media commentary obstruct sympathy and support for those who have suffered
Generally, we observe the normalisation through social codes and social media posts that place the blame on women What is unfortunate is that despite having such social codes that essentially spell out the terms in which women should conduct themselves all in the name of being “safe,” women still become victims of GBVF The normalisation of GBVF is disheartening and inhumane; we need to start confronting it to alleviate the dangers they pose How many mass movements will it take for women ’ s voices to be heard that we live in constant fear day and night? Why should we suffer at the misogynistic hands of men? Such deviant behaviour cannot, in any way, be normalised The danger of continuously normalising such behaviour will get to a point where it will no longer feel wrong Do we – women - deserve to be treated like we are sub-human?
■ Bonolo Mahlatsi is a senior student experience officer in the Centre for Teaching and Learning at the University of the Free State (UFS)
Teboho Mokhothu and Sophy Khosa viewing one the artworks by Mzie Gojo
Photo: Teboho Setena
Tokoloshe was performed by this group of learners of the Dr C F Visser School
Industry’s finest place customers above all
Premier car dealership Lindsay Saker Bloemfontein’s reputation as a master in the automotive retailer industry continues This blaze of excellence is embodied by two members, Andre du Preez (sales executive) and Ryno Swiegelaar (service manager), winning some of the prestigious awards at the VW Grand Prix Dealer Awards.
This years ceremony of the annual event was held in April and recognised the contribution of 72 outstanding members of the Volkswagen dealer network across 17 distinct categories The awards recognise the performance delivery for the 2024-’25 financial year
Lindsay Saker Bloemfonteins pair, Swiegelaar and Du Preez, raised their dealerships flag high
This is for their contribution to the home of trusted brand vehicles which includes Lindsay Saker, Audi Centre, as well as the pre-loved departments VW MasterCars Centre, Motus Select Centre and Audi pre-owned Swiegelaar scooped three service accolades during the Grand Prix Awards, these being the coveted Golden Circle Club Warranty Award the Golden Circle Service Manager Award and the Golden Circle Service Manager of the Year Award
“Pride and passion for the people inspires me
Customer satisfaction goes a long away - you need to evaluate yourself and strive to be best, ensuring you keep your customers happy
“As for customer experience – they need to be happy That is what works for me all the time and it gives me a peace of mind and satisfaction, says Swiegelaar
With experience that spans decades Swiegelaar dedicates this milestone to teamwork toward a common goal
“For as much pride as these achievements make me feel, not all of it is thanks to me The people who are doing the job every day, all the acclaim
should go to them
“These awards are the product of a combined effort This is not a one-man show This is team effort – from the person doing the booking, technicians, to service advisor and the foreman running the workshop I am nothing without my team members They need help from me and they need my back-up In turn I can lead them and know that they can and are doing the actual work, says Swiegelaar Du Preez walked home with the Mastercars
Sales Executive of the Year award in category A
This is his second time winning this coveted award having last won it in 2023
This recognition is evidence of Du Preezs passion to putting the interest and needs of the customer first and rendering quality post-sale service to customers
He strongly believes that customer satisfaction is key to acquiring one ’ s expertise in the car dealership industry Du Preez has established himself as a master in dealing with pre-owned cars
The awards are amazing This hard, hard work is paying off and that is the main thing Winning some of the top awards amongst all the dealerships in South Africa is amazing, especially with this being my second time in just the two years of my full-time service in the industry Under the brand of Mastercars, there is a certain criteria to ascertain that the vehicles we sell are of great quality There is value for ones money for every vehicle we sell at Mastercars, says Du Preez
Ryno Swiegelaar displays the collection of awards he won over the years Photos: Teboho Setena
Andre du Preez displays the top awards he won nationally.This year marks his second year of full-time service in the automotive retailer industry
Preserving sight is up to oneself
Driven by increasingly urbanised lifestyles, greater screen time and less time spent outdoors, myopia is expected to rise as much as 50% by 2050 Myopia is the medical term for “short-sightedness” or the inability to see distant objects
Globally, it affects between
a quarter and a third of the world’s population and is rising at an alarming rate
Evidence shows that the chances of a child becoming myopic are reduced by approximately 30% if they spend more than 14 hours a week outdoors
Yet, many children are instead spending large portions of their day engaged in near-work activities such as reading, gaming and screen use, often indoors and without natural light
Myopia is the most common refractive vision error It is one of the leading causes of poor vision, notably among young adults and school-aged children, whose eyes are still developing and who are at risk of further worsening of the condition
The Ophthalmological Society of South Africa (Ossa), in partnership with specialist sub-societies the South African Society for Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (Saspos) and the South African Society for Cataract and Refractive Surgery (SASCRS), has renewed efforts to highlight the continued rise in myopia cases, particularly in children, and call for greater awareness and early intervention
Signs of near-sightedness
Parents and teachers should be vigilant for signs of near-sightedness, which include:
■ holding books close to the face to read;
■ sitting very close to the TV;
■ rubbing the eyes;
■ squinting or straining to read the board or presentations at school;
■ disinterest in teaching, often diagnosed as behavioural issues; and
■ fear or hesitancy to participate in sports
How screen time impacts vision and eye health
Use of digital devices is increasingly important for schooling, and screen time can be beneficial when balanced well with other activities, according to mykidsvision org
However, children exposed to screens before the age of three years are more likely to have developed myopia by pre-school age Screen time in children and teenagers has also been linked to development of dry eyes and digital eyestrain, which can cause significant symptoms
Are screens different to books?
According to mykidsvision org, children and adults appear to hold screens closer than books and print material This increases the visual demand on the eyes ’ focussing system
Digital eye strain may be suffered by up to 50% of people who use screens
One of the main challenges of screens to the visual system is how close they are held and for how long they are used Research has shown that children who read or wrote at a distance closer than 20cm showed faster progression, or worsening, of their myopia This same impact occurred when reading for more than 45 minutes without a break
Negative impact on learning
“Poor vision has a tremendous negative impact on a child’s ability to learn With poor vision a child struggles to see the board or other classroom presentations, following distant objects used in sports or recognising individuals far away The child may struggle not only in his educational progress, but also behaviourally and socially”
This is the opinion of Dr Helga Abrahamse-Pillay, president of Saspos She says myopia often develops and presents during childhood and may worsen up
to the age of about 20, yet could also first develop in adulthood
Myopia manifests as clear vision for nearby objects but blurry vision for distant ones Its primary cause often lies in elongated eyeballs, leading light to focus improperly on the retina (the back of the eye)
According to Dr Ed Anderson, president of SASCRS, although myopia is complex, there is significant evidence that many people inherit the tendency to develop myopia
“If one or both parents are nearsighted, there is an increased chance their children will be nearsighted
“However, individuals who spend considerable time reading, working at a computer, playing video games or doing other intense close visual work, or those who have uncorrected refractive errors such as astigmatism, are more likely to develop myopia”
Anderson says although South African data lacks, it is important for parents and schools to look out for the signs and symptoms and to seek assistance for children
“An optometrist or ophthalmologist will be able to test your eyes to identify the underlying problem It is highly recommended that any child identified as having difficulty seeing the board at school or television at home, see a professional as soon as possible”
Options for correction
Once diagnosed, several options exist to correct vision impairment and ensure optimal sight The two main options to regain clear distance vision are:
■ Spectacles – For most people with myopia, spectacles are a successful first choice for correction
■ Contact lenses – Depending on age, contact lenses may be more suitable
Other options for adults are also available, such as laser surgery or implantable lenses
However, one of the best strategies to prevent myopia, or at least slow its progression, is encouraging outdoor activities and reducing near-work and screen time
SPORT ACHIEVER NOMINATIONS AWAITED
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture invites sports federations; provincial sports departments; professional leagues, clubs or unions; sports for social change networks; schools’ sport code structures; media companies; and recognised sport and recreation bodies to nominate outstanding athletes, journalists and sport administrators for the 18th Annual South African Sport Awards
Sport enthusiasts are urged to nominate the sport stars they believe deserve recognition
This year’s edition of the event will be celebrated under the theme “Celebrating Sporting Excellence”
The nomination process is set to close at midnight on 20 June, and must be submitted via the department’s website
Read the rulebook of the awards and submit all nominations by visiting dsac gov za
Wednesday, 11 June 2025
Club overcomes the ultimate race
TEBOHO SETENA
Bloemfontein’s Centre City Titaniums Athletics Club emerged from the great trek of the 2025 Comrades Marathon on Sunday, 8 June, with a total of 62 medals.
The club started from the blocks with 67 runners, with 62 managing to complete the gruelling challenge dubbed the Ultimate Human Race
The collection of sought-after medals includes one silver (for a completion time of under 7:30), six Bill Rowans (a completion time between 7:30 and 8:59:59), 14 Robert Mtshalis (between 9:00 and 9:59:59), 20 bronzes (between 10:00 and 10:59:59) and 21 Vic Claphams (between 11:00 and 11:59:59)
Bala Lidzane stood out from the rest, winning another silver medal this year He added this to his cabinet, alongside one he won last year with teammate Ernest Khalata Bala, referred to as the “Pitbull” by his teammates, started running in 2019 He finishes on the podium at most races in which competes He took up the challenge to compete in the Two Oceans Marathon (56km), and completed it within four hours
Last year the Titanium crew collected 56 medals from a strong contingent of 56 runners
According to Teboho Lemao, chairperson of the club, this achievement during this year ’ s Marathon, translate to a 93% medal tally
Among the medals winners are debutants who joined the more experienced members to conquer
the global race This increase in the number of novice runners signals the club's commitment to developing tal-
ent runners Club members compete in most of the prestigious marathons staged in South Africa
The members of the Centre City Titaniums Athletics Club proudly display medals won at the 2025 edition of the Comrades Marathon run on Sunday. Photo: Supplied