University ready to assist students
TEBOHO SETENA
The Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State, has launched a crowdfunding initiative, Invest in the Future, in aid of students facing lack of sustainable funding that hampers their ability to complete their studies
The CUT kickstarted the initiative by hosting a fundraising gala at the CUT Hotel School on the main campus in Bloemfontein on 31 October
The event brought together esteemed business leaders, corporate partners, alumni, and friends of the university to celebrate the strides the CUT has made
Prof Pamela Dube, vice-chancellor and principal, delivered the keynote address and explained that the strategic initiative reaffirms a shared belief in what is achievable through collective effort, further stressing that the initiative underscores the com-
mitment of the university towards the success of the students
“Our mission has been clear and constant to be a leading African university of technology, shaping the future through innovation, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility
“However, we all know that it takes more than erecting buildings and laboratories to build a university A university is built by people with a shared purpose, anchored on strong partnerships This means that it takes a community to build a university a community of builders, working together with a shared purpose ”
The gala aimed to raise funds for three strategic projects that will directly impact students' lives and ensure holistic support for their academic and personal development:
■ Student financial aid: Supporting academically deserving students who face financial hardship, thereby increasing access to higher education and reducing dropout rates due to financial constraints
SUSPECTED SEX PREDATOR IN CUSTODY
The criminal case against a 50-yearold Brackenfell man accused of child sexual abuse is set to continue in the Bloemfontein Sexual Offences Court on Monday 17 November
The suspect, whose identity is known to BloemExpress, has been remanded in custody over five months following his arrest in Brackenfell in the Western Cape
The suspected predator’s arrest pertains to allegations of cyber sexual offences involving two teenage boys, aged 15 and 16 years
The victims reside in Dewetsdorp, a town located approximately 70km outside Bloemfontein The suspect first appeared in Cape Town’s Blue Downs Magistrates’ Court in May; thereafter, he was transported to the Free State The matter continues in the Bloemfontein Sexual Offences Court after it was transferred from Dewetsdorp Mojalefa Senokoatsane, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) of South Africa, confirms that the matter against the suspect has
been transferred to the Sexual Offences Court for consultation purposes on the said date
■ Student wellbeing: Investing in programmes and initiatives that promote mental health, holistic wellness, and overall student support services to ensure students thrive during their academic journey
■ Digital infrastructure: Supporting and enhancing digital infrastructure
to ensure the CUT remains a modern, inclusive, and future-ready institution, equipping every student with the tools and technology they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world
Dube emphasised that these three projects form the core of the foundation upon which the university's vision for the future stands
“Addressing them is not optional; it is imperative Through the theme ‘Investing in the Future’ , we affirm our shared responsibility to build a university where every student has the opportunity, the support, and the tools they need to succeed
“At the CUT, we believe that no student should be denied the opportunity to learn, grow, or build a future because of financial constraints Through events like the annual fundraising gala, the university continues to strengthen partnerships that turn this belief into action investing not only in facilities and innovation, but in the lives and dreams of our stu-
dents,” said Dube
In 2021, the university revealed that 70% of the total student population at the CUT are mainly dependent on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), a government entity under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
It was established to provide financial support to financially needy students who wish to further their studies at public universities or TVET colleges Those who qualify are South African citizens, students with permanent residence, and recipients of the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa)
The student fund scheme revealed in April this year that it is owed about R45 billion in outstanding student loans and has called on former beneficiaries to begin repayments
The financial scheme also stated that it has started reaching out to former loan recipients who received financial aid before 2018 to pay back the money
The Free State Provincial Serial and Electronic Crime Investigations (SECI) unit traced and arrested the man in Brackenfell Sgt Mahlomola Kareli, spokesperson for the Free State police, said the investigative team had seized electronic devices during the arrest of the suspect His arrest follows a complaint lodged by a clinical psychologist at a school in Dewetsdorp early in February this year According to the police, the suspect faces multiple charges, ranging from sexual exploitation and grooming to facilitating the creation of child pornography The police stated that an investigation discovered that he had allegedly exploited the two boys by luring them with false promises of gifts in exchange for sexually explicit videos and images The man is yet to plead to multiple charges of child sexual abuse the state has instituted against him Fixing pothole-ridden road for next
Barbershop owner gets four life terms for abuse of teens
TEBOHO SETENA
The Wesselsbron Regional Court has thrown the book at a convicted child sexual predator, Tshepo Godfrey Letshabo, imposing four life sentences The court further ordered that his details be placed in the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO), declaring him unfit to work with children
The hefty sentence was handed down on Thursday, 30 October, after Letshabo was found guilty of raping four teenage boys aged 12 to 15 years old last year
Letshabo’s sentencing was a result of the Bultfontein police’s Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offenses (FCS) unit working with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) of South Africa
An investigation revealed the victims had been raped last year, at a rented shack dwelling in the Malebogo township in Hertzogville
An investigation was launched after the rape incidents came to light during May 2024
Mojalefa Senokoatsane, spokesperson for the NPA, said Letshabo was sentenced to life imprisonment on each count of rape
Letshabo operated a salon from the rented shack dwelling, which he had divided into a bedroom
“He lured victims one and two with free haircuts After trimming one boy’s hair, he dragged him into the bedroom for sexual acts; the second victim was witnessed through a gap before being violated
“Victim three was fetched by the first two; unaware of what was happening, he was pulled in and raped
“The fourth victim (12) related being called into the room and forced into sexual acts during a visit
“Fear and shame silenced the boys until one confronted another, exposing the crimes The victims testified courageously,” said Senokoatsane
Mahlomola Kareli, spokesperson for the Free State police, said investigative officer WO Ntomzoto Selemogo of the Bultfontein FCS Unit uncovered compelling evidence tying the accused to the sexual victimisation of the four boys
“None of the victims initially reported the incidents, which were only discovered after one of the victims confided in his teacher about the assault
“This successful conviction sends a clear message that crimes against children will be pursued with the utmost seriousness, and perpetrators will face the full might of the law,” said Kareli
Senokoatsane said the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in the Free State has applauded Regional Court Prosecutor Mojela Masisi, Court Preparation Officer Nono Sebego, and Selemogo for ensuring the successful prosecution and sentencing of Letshabo
“Masisi submitted victim impact statements for all four victims, arguing that Letshabo was a dangerous predator targeting vulnerable children,” said Senokoatsane
Prof Pamela Dube,vice-chancellor and principal of the Central University of Technology,Free State. PHOTO: Supplied
This unemployed young man has become a familiar sight to motorists as he volunteers to repair multiple dangerous potholes on the Dewetsdorp Road He temporarily patches holes at the intersection of Freedom Square and Peter Swartz Street,using gravel he excavates from the side of the road.In return for his efforts,he gets donations of as a little as R2 from some kindhearted
motorists PHOTO: Teboho Setena
Uproar about airfield not quelled
LIENTJIE MENTZ
Businesses at the Tempe Airfield, as well as the community of Groenvlei, have lodged complaints against the intention of the Mangaung Metro to sell Tempe Airport to a private estate
Johan Pretorius, DA Councillor and the DA in Mangaung's spokesperson on economic development, says more than 50 written objections were submitted, reflecting deep concern regarding the metro’s apparent disregard for due process, transparency, and public participation
Tempe Airfield is one of 14 assets in the metro that have been advertised, inviting public input These assets include Naval Hill The process closed end of October
In response to numerous inquiries by the media Sello More, city manager, said the tender was aimed at leveraging growth in the city’s assets
This, while many of the businesses at Tempe Airfield generate good income for the city also
Pretorius says the DA believes the proposed alienation of these strategic municipal assets is procedurally flawed and potentially unlawful
Tempe Airfield is a certified and operational airport under the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Any attempt to repurpose this site would undermine its aviation status, threaten local jobs, and erode a part of Bloemfontein's transport and economic infrastructure
Recently, a notice was circulated to hangar owners and tenants indicating that no lease agreements would be renewed, as the metro had received formal expressions of interest from external parties in the airport land currently occupied by hangars and aviation-related businesses
Another occupier is the Bloemfontein Gliding Club Riaan Bezuidenhout of the club says no communication from the metro is forthcoming “The Tempe Airfield is a strategic and high-value municipal asset of significant regional and national importance to general aviation in South Africa Over the years, lessees and users have personally invested in the maintenance and improvement of airport infrastructure, contributing to its ongoing functionality and safety”
Bezuidenhout says this club alone invested millions in infrastructure and maintenance of the runways without the municipality’s support or assistance
“Runway 33 was developed out of our own funds This adds value to the whole flying community The club
moved to the New Tempe Airfield in 1985 and is the oldest club here”
Bezuidenhout says it is now the beginning of the gliding season, and members are flying in from across the world to spend time in Bloemfontein in the coming months On a yearly basis, international glider pilots fly in to use the facilities in Bloemfontein
From November to January each year, due to the good soaring conditions around Bloemfontein, the Tempe Airfield is sought after
These yearly financial injections into the local economy happens via spending on accommodation, food, entertainment, fuel, aircraft hire and vehicle hire, to name but a few
Pretorius also points out that Tempe Airfield is an important refueling stop when traveling between Johan-
nesburg and Cape Town
“We strongly condemn the municipality's failure to consult affected tenants, aviation stakeholders, and the local community before pursuing this plan The DA calls for the immediate suspension of all actions related to the proposed sale and demands a transparent, lawful process that protects
Helping hands appease rumbling tummies
LIENTJIE MENTZ
The local branch of Meals on Wheels (MOW) in Bloemfontein delivered 1 000 meals for this year ' s charity's focus on World Food Day Workers of Sasko (part of PepsiCo) helped to prepare the meals on Thursday 23 October, in the MOW kitchen in Bloemspruit Sasko workers Tumelo Pitso and Obakeng Rankoe joined colleagues to help prepare the meal, which consisted of chicken curry and rice, and a Waldorf salad
The daily delivery included 100 beneficiaries who collected their meals at the premisis, with more going to residents of the Thabang Old Age Home, the Letloto Old Age Home, residents in Exton Road, Towers of Hope, the Bokang Educare Centre and many more Meals on Wheels in Bloemfontein cooks and delivers more than 10 000 meals accross the country every month World Food Day is an international day celebrated every year close to 16 October, to commemorate the date of the founding of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation in 1945
OCCURRENCE OF DISEASE AMONG LIVESTOCK INSPIRES DRASTIC ACTION, SWIFTLY
There is deep concern about the number of foot-and-mouth disease cases reported in the Free State, which is rising sharply
In a statement from the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development issued on Thursday, 6 November, the total amount of confirmed foot-andmouth disease cases in the Free State stood at 74
Cases by municipality:
■ Kroonstad 10;
■ Viljoenskroon and Vredefort district 39;
■ Deneysville and Sasolburg 4;
■ Cornelia and Frankfort 8;
■ Heilbron 2;
■ Parys 5;
■ Edenville 3;
■ Odendaalsrus 1; and
■ Bothaville 2
The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development says the vaccination of infected animals is a priority and has been administered immediately to reduce further spreading However, they urgently call on all farmers, livestock speculators and other stakeholders to
work together to curb the spread of the virus
In a statement by Sparta Beef on 6 November, the company said it was investigating a possible case of footand-mouth disease at its feedlots in Marquard The feedlot has now been quarantined pending the laboratory's test results Sparta Beef says they maintain strict biosecurity protocols and are investigating the matter A foot-andmouth disease case was also reported at Gouda in the Western Cape last week
All farmers and stakeholders are
urged to comply with the following:
■ Restrict the movement of any split ungulates
■ Adhere strictly to biosecurity measures, which include the disinfection of vehicles and equipment
■ Any new livestock must be quarantined for 28 days before they can be introduced into the existing herd
■ Keep records of all animal movements and visitors to the farm
■ Contact the state veterinarian immediately when there is a suspicion that animals are infected with the virus
this vital public asset”
More said that Tempe Airport “has turned into a quad bike venue ”
“What a waste,” he stated in his news release
The Bloemfontein Off Road Club (Borc) has hosted numerous worldclass national, regional and club-level events, and is recognised as one of the top motocross facilities in South Africa Anton Engelbrecht, Borc chairman, said should the municipality proceed with the disposal of this land, it would result in the loss of the only operational motocross venue in the Free State, effectively ending all formal off-road motorsport activities in the region
Furthermore, Tempe Airfield houses the SAPS Airwing and is a base of training for parachute soldiers stationed at Tempe
More said the metro would give due consideration to valid objections “Our intention is to stimulate growth and create a bigger revenue base which will benefit all citizens of Mangaung”
THIEF DEALT BLOW
The convicted Petrus Bolofo (47) has suffered a double blow in the criminal case of stock theft against him The Free State Hawks’ Priority Crime Specialised Investigation (PCSI) unit and the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) of South Africa have secured a preservation order of his high-end Isuzu KB 250 R/Cab bakkie
The Free State High Court granted the order on Thursday 6 November This action falls under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (Poca), which allows for the seizure of assets that are either the proceeds of crime or have been used as an instrumentality in the commission of an offence
WO Fikiswa Matoti said the value of the preserved vehicle was estimated at R250 000 The vehicle was confiscated during Bolofo’s arrest in connection with stock theft that took place in Steynsrus on 18 July 2022
“Bolofo was intercepted while transporting stolen sheep from Pandam Farm in Steynsrus He was unable to provide proof of purchase or ownership, leading to his arrest by the Steynsrus police The sheep were later positively identified by the lawful owner,” said Matoti Bolofo’s first blow came with his conviction and sentencing on 24 August 2023 He was to pay a fine of R6 000 or serve 18 months’ imprisonment Matoti said the court suspended half of the sentence for five years with conditions Despite securing a conviction against Bolofo, the elite crime-fighting wing pursued the matter further This culminated in their securing a preservation order for the vehicle in favour of the state
Maj Gen Mokgadi Bokaba, provincial head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), has welcomed the outcome
Uproar has been caused among local community members and business owners regarding the proposed selling of Tempe Airfield. PHOTO: Lientjie Mentz
The Tempe Airfield,with all its hangars where it is located in Groenvlei,Bloemfontein PHOTO: Supplied
The Bloemfontein Off Road Club (Borc) houses one of the best motocross facilities in South Africa. PHOTO: Supplied
Angelique Murphy of Meals on Wheels.
Tumelo Pitso (left) and Obakeng Rankoe working on the meal at Meals on Wheels. PHOTOS: Lientjie Mentz
Strong heritage celebrated
TEBOHO SETENA
The exhibition Sutha ke Fete, showcasing both traditional and contemporary Basotho blankets in the Oliewenhuis Art Museum’s Reservoir Gallery, has now been extended to 15 February Initially it was set to close on Sunday, 16 November, having opened in September.
This extension makes it one of the longest running exhibitions at this museum in Bloemfontein
It also affords the public ample opportunity for viewing People can learn about the historic value of these blankets to the Basotho nation
The Sotho phrase “Sutha ke Fete” translates as “Make way so I may pass ” The exhibition’s opening in September coincided with the Basotho cultural season This season begins in August (Phato) and continues through September (Selemo)
This showing of the globally iconic Basotho blankets is a collaboration between the National Museum and Sanlam
in attendance during the official opening of the exhibition
ke Fete are,from the left,Thandeka Nkambule (Sanlam corporate affairs),Stefan Hundt (curator of the Sanlam Art Collection),Ester le Roux (curator of the Oliewenhuis Art Museum) and Steven Sack (co-curator of the exhibition) See more photos on bloem-express co za,where access to all news content is free PHOTOS: Supplied
A total of 26 blankets on loan from the Anthropology Collection of the National Museum and from the Sanlam Art Collection, forming part of the rich Basotho heritage, are showcased These include Aranda’s Young Basotho Designer range These textiles have become an iconic
cultural symbol of a nation
Basotho wear blankets for various reasons: warmth, cultural identity and status The blankets serve as traditional attire that provides both practical protection and symbolic meaning
In addition, they are symbols of identity, pride and cultural conti-
include
of the public and guests,during the opening of the exhibition
ke
,showcasing the
of
and
and contemporary
nuity Each design is unique and reflects their history, values and connection to the land
The blankets hold a rich tapestry of history, reaching back about 160 years to when they were first manufactured in mills in England’s Yorkshire, before winding their way to the Cape of Good Hope, Port Elizabeth, and then on to Leribe and the other mountainous districts of Basutoland (now Lesotho) They tell intertwining tales of Africa and England, of clothiers and early capitalism
The production of the patterns on the blankets were made possible by the invention of the Jacquard weaving machine one of the earliest examples of computation during the British Industrial Revolution
Missionaries first brought blankets to King Moshoeshoe’s nation in 1845 English traders then established trading posts to meet demand, and began developing new designs in collaboration with their customers, such as the famed Seanamarena blanket
The blankets have been part of Basotho culture for over a century, with the original “Victoria England” designs enduring for generations; these are being displayed
The public is encouraged to visit the museum to view these richly decorated heritage blankets and learn about their historical significance
This includes hearing how Basotho have specific, culturally-defined ways of teaching and wearing the traditional blanket, as well as the blankets’ names Some names for Basotho blankets include “Seanamarena, ” “Lehlosi,” “Victoria” or “Malakbane,” and “Letlama” The Seanamarena is the royal crown jewel of the Basotho blankets, and carries a rich legacy dating back to the 1930s Its name means “to swear by the Chiefs”
For more information contact the museum on 078 968 4300, or send email to oliewen@nasmus co za
The museum is open to the public from Monday to Friday, between 08:00 and 17:00; and on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays between 09:00 and 16:00
Euphonious sounds fine-tuned
The annual performance of Handel’s Messiah, a work that has touched hearts and captivated listeners for almost 300 years, will be on stage on Saturday, 29 November
In Messiah, the story of Jesus Christ’s birth, crucifixion, and resurrection is told in a colourful and emotionally stirring manner Featuring vocal soloists, choir and orchestra, this beloved oratorio is a marvellous way to begin the festive season on a special and meaningful note
Conductor Heinrich Lategan joins forces with local choir Cantando@bloem and the HL Music Orchestra in this production
Joining them are soloists Adri Maryke van Heerden (mezzo-soprano), Anisja Smit (alto), Thuso Stoffel (tenor), and Dumisani Rini (baritone) This marks the fourth year that Messiah is being produced by Lategan, following the first performance with The Rhapsody Orchestra in 2022, and subsequent professional productions by HL Music in 2023 and 2024
Audiences will recognise and appreciate well-known arias such as “Every Valley Shall Be Exalted” , “O Thou That Tellest Good
A rehearsal for a previous performance of Handel’s Messiah PHOTO: Supplied
Tidings to Zion” , “I Know That My Redeemer Liveth” , and “The Trumpet Shall Sound” , among many others Beloved choruses to be performed include: “And the Glory of the Lord,” “Worthy Is the Lamb” , “And He Shall Purify,” and the evergreen “Hallelujah” This special performance will take place late November in the
Office policies given update
JACQUES MARITZ
South Africa’s labour landscape is entering a new phase of accountability with the Employment Equity Amendment Act of 2025.
The act introduces tougher compliance requirements and sector-specific targets that call for operational transformation Employers must now rethink how they hire, promote and report, while proving measurable progress toward equity
As focus shifts, Temporary Employment Services (TES) providers are becoming the bridge between compliance and capability, helping businesses meet their obligations with the agility and expertise the legislation now requires
One of the biggest updates is the redefinition of what makes a company a “designated employer” Previously, companies with more than 50 employees or meeting a turnover threshold were designated, but the new rules remove the turnover factor Now, only companies with more than 50 employees are duty-bound to comply This lightens the regulatory load for smaller businesses, but places a heavier responsibility on medium and large employers to actively drive equity in their workplaces
In the past, benchmarks were national or provincial, but now, employers must measure progress against targets tailored to their industry and the specific roles within it This ensures that transformation is meaningful and aligned with the realities of different sectors, and forces businesses to understand where they are and where they need to go to meet these targets
From 1 September 2025, designated employers must prepare five-year employment equity plans These plans must align with sector-specific targets and be submitted annually using the official reporting forms Employers who fall short of their goals must provide a clear explanation
Government contracts have become a powerful lever for compliance To bid for work, companies now need a Certificate of Compliance, showing that they have submitted their Employment Equity (EE) reports on time, made measurable progress toward sector targets, complied with the National Minimum Wage Act, and avoided unfair discrimination findings from the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) over the past 12 months In effect, this makes equitable practices a gateway to business opportunities: Companies cannot afford to ignore compliance if they want to compete for government work For employers, this means employment equity must level up beyond annual reporting and become a central part of workforce strategy Recruitment, promotions and staffing decisions all need to be aligned with transformation goals Companies that treat equity as a check-box exercise risk penalties, reputational damage and missed opportunities
One of the challenges for businesses when it comes to change is turning legal obligations into practical, day-to-day operations The TES providers play a key role here, expanding recruitment reach, helping to find candidates from underrepresented groups and build pipelines that meet sector-specific targets For temporary or short-term roles, TES providers manage placements so that reporting requirements are met, ensuring these employees are accurately included in workforce statistics when necessary Here, payroll systems are equally important They make it easier to submit the information needed for annual EE reporting and maintain audit-ready records by embedding compliance into operations, turning legislation from a potential burden into a practical framework for action
Dutch Reformed Berg-en-Dal Church in Dan Pienaar
Ticket sales are now open and prices range from R140 for adults and R100 for pensioners, to R50 for students or children under 18 Buy on quicket com
To direct enquiries, contact the production manager, Ezelle Erasmus, on 073 651 2611
Employment equity is now part of the bottom line Companies can no longer treat it as an isolated human resource (HR) function; it must be woven into how people are hired, managed and developed Partnering with TES providers gives businesses the compliance structure and agility they need to keep pace with shifting regulations and workforce demands Equity, when lived daily, becomes the engine of sustainable growth ■ Maritz is a national sales and service manager in the employment management sector
Guests
Sutha
Attendees,which
members
Sutha
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unique
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traditional
Basotho blankets in the Oliewenhuis Art Museum’s Reservoir Gallery
Legacy continues to uplift artistry
The sixth Human Naudé Music Scholarship Competition will again take place this year at the Odeion School of Music (OSM) at the University of the Free State (UFS) in Bloemfontein, in November
Any young classical singer or instrumentalist could enter this scholarship competition, which carries a prize of R100 000
Entering the competition
For the preliminary rounds, candidates were required to submit video recordings in which they performed a contrasting programme of a high standard
Only six finalists have been selected to compete in the final round, which will be held on Tuesday, 25 November, at 18:30 in the Odeion auditorium
The six finalists are:
■ Carmen Traut (voice) of the University of Cape Town (UCT);
■ Dané van Graan (piano) of the UCT;
■ Xoliswa Memane (voice) of the UFS Odeion School of Music;
■ Musa Makgato (clarinet) of the Music and Musicology department of the Rhodes University;
■ Jessica Helena Pereira (piano) of the University of Pretoria (UP) School of the Arts; and
■ Lutholwethu Kom (voice) of the North West University (NWU) School of Music
With its substantial prize money,
the scholarship is regarded as one of the largest in South Africa, particularly since the former international music scholarships offered by Unisa and the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) are no longer available
Previous winners of the competition include pianists Isaac van der Merwe and Gerhard Joubert, as well as violinist Pieter Joubert
The scholarship was established by pianist Japie Human and his life partner, Willem Naudé, who both left behind a legacy in Bloemfontein and the rest of the country They left funds in a trust to sustain the scholarship and set out the rules governing it
Charl du Plessis, convenor of the competition, says: “It is a great privilege to host this competition in memory of a remarkable pianist such as Japie Human Thanks to this prize, previous winners have been able to complete their studies with greater focus and financial security Each year, it is a wonderful experience to witness this truly Free State project advance and see new talent flourish”
The judges for this year ’ s competition are Esthea Kruger, Johan Cromhout, and Charl du Plessis
Admission to the final round is free of charge
Carmen Traut (voice)
Dané van Graan (piano) Jessica Helena Perreira (piano)
Lutholwethu Kom (voice) Musa Makgato (clarinet) Xoliswa Memane (voice)
Twins observe another milestone
TEBOHO SETENA
Identical twin brothers King and Kingston Pebane, who were born prematurely, will be celebrated fondly on World Prematurity Day on Monday, 17 November. Now two years old, the twins are children of a Bloemfontein couple, Karabelo and Tshegofatso Pebane.
An official foundation named after the two-year-olds, the King and Kingston Miracle Foundation, will be launched on the day in question at Bloemfontein’s Life Rosepark Hospital
World Prematurity Day aims at raising worldwide awareness of preterm birth and the concerns of preterm babies and their families
The boys were born prematurely on 13 October 2023 to Karabelo and Tshegofatso Pebane, with their initial due date being 19 January 2024 The fact that King and Kingston survived their birth and pulled through has been considered a miracle
Due to their prematurity especially their birth weights the twins were attached to a ventilator for 17 days at Life Rosepark At birth, King weighed 490 g and Kingston 430g When discharged on 19 January
2024 from the hospital, King’s weight was 2 100 g (2,1 kg) and Kingston weighed 1 805 g (1,8 kg)
They are reportedly the smallest premature babies (under 500 g) to have been cared for at Rosepark They
spent 26 weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit
To the delighted Pebane couple,
the recovery of their twins remains an amazing story They were discharged from without any medical complications earning them the title of “Miracle Twins” Father Karabelo had said he was fasting for 12 hours for their twins to pull through while his spouse Tshegofatso stayed at the hospital
Premature babies are born before their organs are fully developed, making them vulnerable and requiring specialised care, often in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) According to the Department of Health in South Africa, an average of 15% or one in seven babies of all births are born prematurely annually About 84 000 preterm infants are born in South Africa each year and 10% of these premature infants are at an increased risk of death and various other complications including respiratory, neurological and eye morbidities compared to full-term infants
South Africa ranks 24th out of 184 countries with a high number of newborn deaths around the world due to complications from preterm birth According to the department, prematurity is a leading cause of neonatal death, with a significant portion of preterm infants not surviving, and progress in reducing the rate of preterm births has stagnated over the past decade
Academic takes his seat to inspire research and innovation
The Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State, has appointed the astute Prof Samson Sitheni Mashele as the new deputy vice-chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Engagement He officially started his tenure on 1 November Mashele previously held the position of dean of the Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences
The university stated that Mashele has significantly contributed to the university’s growth, and his new role marks an exciting chapter in advancing the university’s research and innovation agenda The institute described Mashele as a visionary and
change-maker for his distinguished scholarship and transformative leadership role in higher education He is widely recognised for his outstand-
MANGAUNG METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY
SPATIAL PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT ACT, 2013 (ACT NO. 16 OF 2013)
ing record in academic leadership, research innovation and institutional transformation
Mashele’s career spans several decades during which he made an indelible impact on the South African higher education landscape through his visionary approach to teaching, research, and digital transformation He has championed excellence across all academic and research domains, driving innovation that bridges science, technology, and societal impact
A highly accomplished researcher, Mashele established the Drug Discovery and Development Unit, which has since evolved into a centre of interna-
The application, relevant plans, documents and information will be available for inspection during ofce hours (08:30 –15:00) at the ofce of the Town and Regional Planning Sub-directorate of the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality (MMM), Room 802, 8 Floor, Bram Fischer Building, Corner Nelson Mandela Drive and Markgraaff Street, Bloemfontein h for a period of 30 days from the date of publication hereof namely Wednesday 12 November 2025
Any person who has an interest in the matter or who wishes to object to the granting of the application or who desires to be heard, or wants to make representations concerning the matter, must communicate in writing with the Town and Regional Planning Sub-directorate of the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality at the above-mentioned address, or e-mail: george.masuabi@mangaung.co.za or post to P.O. Box 3704, Bloemfontein, 9300 within a period of 30 days from the date of publication hereof, namely 12 November 2025 –13 December 2025, quoting your name, address, contact details, interest in the application and reasons for your comments. The Municipality may refuse to accept comments received after the closing date. Any person who cannot write will be assisted by a Municipal ofcial by transcribing their comments.
NOTICE
Cancellation of the General Plan(s) (“Rojering”) SG 461/2017, Subdivision and Register Servitude(s) [to be exactly the same as it was before consolidation/township establishment and to automatically revert back to the originalUseZone“Smallholding”]
It is hereby notied for general information in terms of the provisions of Section 50 (1) (a) to (d), (2) and (3) of the Mangaung Metro Municipality Mun cipal Land Use Planning By-law (2021), that an application has been submitted for the Cancellation of the General Plan(s) (“Rojering”) pertaining to the township establishment (General Plan SG 461/2017: Erven 29472 – 29477 and 40137, Bloemfontein Extension 211 situated on Portion 8 of Farm Rayton 431) in order to nullify the approved township establishment and revert the underlying property back to farm in order to subdivide the property to the original four portions of land exactly as it was before the consolidation and township establishment. The land use and status will revert back to the initial zoning, which will be re-instated to “Smallholding”. The original right of way road servitude will also be re-registered (De Bruin Street) to give access to the four subdivided portions of land
The application property is accessed from De Bruin Street, which turns off Ray Champion Street and Frans Kleynhans Avenue, in the Rayton Smallholdings area.
Amendment of the General Plan SG No. 301/2020: Erven 40359, 40374, 40375 and 41219 Bloemfontein Extension 275,Bergendal,Bloemfontein
It is hereby noti
ed for general information in terms of the provisions of Section 50(1)(a)(ii) and (d) of the Mangaung Metro Municipality Municipal Land Use Planning By-law (2021), that an application has been submitted for the amendment of the General Plan SG No. 301/2020 pertaining to the re-layout of Erven 40359, 41274, 41275 and 41219 Bloemfontein Extension 275, Bergendal, Bloemfontein, as well as the addition of 2 (two) additional street erven for civil services layout and accessibility reasons. The existing Use Zone/Zoning remains the same. Access to the application properties is from Wag-n-Bietjie Drive and Bergaalwyn Place, Woodland Hills Wildlife Estate, Bergendal.
Applicant: Makecha Development Associates, trading as MDA Property owner: Woodland Hills Wildlife Estate Pty Ltd, Reg No. 2000/029426/07 0000000000-EX121125
tional repute Under his stewardship, the centre has forged global collaborations with leading institutions His prolific scientific output, comprising over 125 accredited publications in high-impact journals, reflects his sustained contribution to advancing knowledge in drug discovery, pharmacology, and health innovation
Mashele has supervised more than 50 master’s and doctoral degree students and over five postdoctoral fellows, many of whom now occupy leadership positions in academia and industry
Mashele’s exceptional contributions have earned him multiple
national and international accolades, including recognition as Best Facilitator and a prestigious nomination to “Who’s Who in the World” , an acknowledgment of his global influence in science, education, and innovation
The university added that Mashele epitomises excellence in scholarship, leadership and impact
“His unwavering dedication to advancing knowledge, empowering others, and reimagining the role of universities in society continues to inspire transformation, not only at the CUT, but across the broader African and global higher education landscape, ” the CUT stated
Experienced hand leads way
Prof Ylva Rodny-Gumede of the University of the Free State (UFS) was appointed as the executive director for Advancement, effective 1 November
In this role, Rodny-Gumede will provide strategic leadership for the university's Institutional Advancement, Communication and Marketing, and Student Recruitment portfolios
She joins the UFS from the University of Johannesburg (UJ), where she served as senior director in the division of global engagement
She holds a PhD from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) at the University of London, a master's degree in Politics from the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), and a master's degree in Journalism from the Cardiff University In addition, she holds a certificate in Executive Leadership from the Johannesburg Business School
With a career spanning more than 20 years in higher education, Rodny-Gumede has held fellowships at universities in South Africa and abroad
Throughout her academic career, Rodny-Gumede has on many occassions proven how multifaceted she is She
international levels
She is an accomplished scholar and has held several leadership and academic positions in the fields of communication, journalism, and public relations
Her experience further includes consultancy for high-profile organisations such as Universities South Africa (USAf) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) She contributes regularly to print and broadcast media, including Newzroom Afrika, the SABC, Mail & Guardian and University World News
“Prof Rodny-Gumede’s strategic mindset, innovative approach, and deep understanding of the higher education landscape will be instrumental in enhancing the university's national and international visibility, while driving impactful advancement and student recruitment initiatives,” says Prof Hester Klopper, vice-chancellor and principal of the UFS
is actively involved in teaching, executive training, and development initiatives at institutional, national and
“I look forward to her leadership in elevating the university's global profile and strengthening our advancement efforts I extend my congratulations to her”
The Pebane couple celebrated their twin sons’,King and Kingston,first birthday last year with family and close friends From the left are Tshegofatso and Karabelo Pebane,Dr Mokone Monenyane (family doctor),Mike and Mittah Pebane (grandparents holding the twins) and Gontse Maele. PHOTO: Archives
Prof.Samson Sitheni Mashele PHOTO: Supplied
Prof.Ylva Rodny-Gumede was appointed as an executive director for advancement at the University of the Free State. PHOTO: Supplied
Wednesday, 12 November 2025
All parties involved have big goals for final face-off
Trophydreamkeptalive
Jubilant Marumo Gallants players,which include Edgar Manaka,Agnikoi Eroine and Jaison Clifford as well as Marvin Skhosana,celebrate after beating Lamontville Golden Arrows in the semifinal to reach the final of this year’s edition of the Carling Knockout Cup PHOTO: Supplied
The Marumo Gallants football team fought gallantly to defy the odds in this year’s edition of the Carling Knockout Cup, reaching the final. They atoned for last year’s failure, beating the Lamontville Golden Arrows 4 – 2 via penalties in the semifinal on Sunday 9 November.
With this achievement, they keep alive their big dream of winning their first major title as well as the prospects of their new head coach, Alexandre Lafitte, in the team’s securing of his first major trophy In the grand final scheduled for Saturday 6 December, in the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Limpopo, the Gallants will face off against
football giants Orlando Pirates for the coveted trophy
The Buccaneers progressed to the final after narrowly beating Richards Bay 1 - 0 in the other semifinal played on Saturday, 8 November
Goals set by trainers Pirates attained this under the Gallants’ former head coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou The Moroccan mentor had a short spell with the
Gallants, helping the club avoid relegation at the end of the 2024’25 football season
The Frenchman Lafitte (28) has made history by being the youngest coach to lead a South African club to the final of a major cup competition Progressing to the final brings him a step closer to achieving the target of winning one major trophy as set by the club’s president, Dr Abram Sello The target is part of the twoyear deal signed at the start of this season The club owner set the Frenchman the target of winning at least one major title on offer in South Africa’s top-flight league and securing a top eight berth in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) The stakes are big in this tournament The winner is guaranteed R6 85 million and the runners-up R2 85 million
TEBOHO SETENA